For martial artists, staying sharp while traveling can be a challenge. Without access to a dojo, training partners, or equipment, it’s easy to feel like your skills are slipping. With a little creativity, however, you can maintain and even refine your martial-arts abilities while on the go. Read on to get ideas on how to continue training while traveling.
Making the Most of Your Situation
Training while traveling isn’t about intensity—it’s about consistency. Even a few focused drills each day will keep your skills sharp until you’re back at home or in the dojo.
Parks, parking lots, and even hotel gyms can serve as makeshift training areas. And no matter the style you practice, use mirrors, reflections, or video recordings to self-correct your technique.
Striking Arts (Muay Thai, Karate, Taekwondo)
- Shadowboxing or Kata Practice – Perform your techniques with full intent, focusing on speed, precision, and form.
- Wall Drills for Kicking – Use a sturdy surface to refine chambering, balance, and control.
- Hand Speed Drills – Use quick repetitions of strikes to build reaction time, even in a small space.
Grappling Arts (Krav Maga)
- Solo Movement Drills – Shrimping, bridging, and technical stand-ups can be done in a hotel room or park.
- Grip Strength Training – If you have a jacket or towel, practice gripping and pulling motions to simulate clothing control.
- Visualization and Mental Reps – Mentally walk through your escapes, transitions, and submissions to reinforce technique.
by Oscar
Weapons-Based Arts (Nunchaku, Bo)
- Footwork Patterns – Even without a weapon, practicing movement and positioning keeps you sharp.
- Solo Flow Drills – If you have a short stick, belt, or even a pen, you can work on strikes, blocks, and coordination.
- Hand Speed and Dexterity Drills – Practicing quick hand movements helps maintain control when you return to full training.
How do you keep up with your martial arts training on the road? Share your methods in the comments!
GMAU Martial Arts Courses
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