ULTRASLIDE for Speed Skating

As cliche as it may seem, there is definite truth to being able to accomplish anything you set your mind to - and Bruce Conner epitomizes that statement. After qualifying at age 49 and 53, Bruce is preparing for the 2014 Winter Olympic trials (at age 57) as the oldest adult to ever try out for the international competition.

With age, training needs are a grand consideration for such a lofty goal. For this lifelong dream, Bruce chose the ULTRASLIDE Slideboard as his primary training tool. Bruce recently shared his inspiring story about his personal Road to Sochi 2014.

What is your history with speed skating?

My experience with speed skating covers many years.  I started speed skating at age 12 and competed until age 19.  I started locally, finally retiring form the sport as a national team member just before the 1976 Olympic games.  However, I stayed active over the years and returned as a 40-year-old athlete just for the fun of it.  I skated once a week and raced once a month and gradually began reaching speeds that I attained when I was  a teenager.  At age 48, I hired a coach and started to train seriously, which led to my qualifications during the Olympic trials at age 49, 53 and now age 57. I also hold numerous world records and world championships in my age group. I continue to skate faster now than ever.  

Describe the primary training objectives for speed skaters.

There are two overall objectives: one is building the [internal] motor, the other is to learn and apply proper skating technique for speed and efficiency.  The slideboard most closely approximates the push for momentum we experience on the ice. It also helps to duplicate proper skating technique for application on the ice.  Staying in the skating position on the slideboard helps to build the endurance for proper technique.  The slideboard speaks to both objectives leading to muscle strength, endurance, and this technique development.  Using a slideboard with a mirror helps me to be aware of proper body position.  The repetitive nature of sliding also strengthens the neuro-muscular bonds to cement good technique.  

What is the most challenging part of speed skating?

Since speed skating is a power sport, it requires good technique even when you are tired.  For this reason, physical conditioning is paramount. Speed skating is not a natural activity.  It is purely learned. Without proper technique and the ability to maintain it, your speed suffers and works against you during the competition.  The slideboard provides the best alternative for off ice speed skating training.

We only have access to long track ice for about 6 months of the year.  The slideboard helps with off ice training anytime and practically anywhere.  I use the ULTRASLIDE Slideboard in conjunction with my on-ice training by using it to warmup before getting on the ice.  This helps me to get my skating neurons firing properly so when I get on the ice I am productive right away.  

Do you find the ULTRASLIDE to be multi-faceted in training?

Yes, the slideboard helps with both the technical aspects of skating as well as the physical training and conditioning.  I perform two types of workouts on the slideboard. One is designed to reach time benchmarks in the skating position. The other is for interval training, all the while practicing good technique. The ULTRASLIDE is truly the best way to duplicate skating off the ice that I know. It's highly durable and is easy to store in the home and transport when needed, placing no limits on training. I have been using the slideboard for 9 years now and I keep getting faster.  It works! I have the results to prove it.

Follow Bruce's journey in preparation for the 2014 Olympic trials on his website or his blog, Faster as a Master.

ULTRASLIDE Slideboard for Post Partum Exercise

For the same reasons that runners must take careful steps to return to running after an injury - a new mom has to take extra precaution after childbirth when returning to any exercise - particularly running. This is vital to ensure the pelvic and abdominal muscles return to their fully stable condition. It might seem like a huge disappointment at first but taking these precautions will actually ensure that you are operating at 100% for your new baby and will help to get you back on the road to running faster than ever.

In addition to getting adequate rest, most physicians will advocate for some very light activity to help you feel like yourself again. But no worries - your hands aren't tied. Mild, low intensity exercise with your doctor's approval can be done. Superstar mom and professional runner Lauren Fleshman has made the ULTRASLIDE Slideboard a part of her post-partum routine to build and regain her pelvic stability. 

                                 

Looks like slow and steady does actually help you to win the race - or at least get you moving faster. Check out this and other ULTRASLIDE products here.

Professional Fighter Gil Guardado Explains How the ULTRASLIDE Slideboard Enhances Mixed Martial Arts Training

UFC Fight Week has generated widespread attention and speaks to the international reach of mixed martial arts as a diversified sport. Trainers, professional fighters and MMA athletes know that making the right decisions about your training is integral to prepare you for the unexpected during competitions. The ULTRASLIDE Slideboard has been a part of many MMA training programs in recent years. 

Professional MMA fighter and Xtreme Couture Strength & Conditioning Coach Gil Guardado recently shared how the ULTRASLIDE has become an invaluable tool in his personal and client training.

What is your experience with slideboards?

Gil combines his technical training knowledge with his
personal fighting experience to train MMA athletes.

I have been using slideboards since the end of 2011. I was training with Jake Bonacci for my last amateur title fight and he incorporated the slideboard into our training program for conditioning. It was a completely different dynamic. We never did lateral conditioning but it made so much sense. In a sport like MMA you need a full range of movements - not just linear and the ULTRASLIDE was perfect for that.

What are the most important training objectives for martial artists?

The first is gaining competitive edge. Everyone is trying to be stronger, faster and better thatn their competition. In my opinion, fighters are behind the curve when it comes to strength and conditioning. Many of them are trying unproven methods to make their training better. I like going with what works - and the ULTRASLIDE is not only proven but it's also something new to a lot of people. When I use it with my clients, most of them are getting a brand new, unique training experience.

What are the most challenging aspects of martial arts?

There are several but learning how to accept the punches and preparing for the mental challenges are most difficult. It's a grind. We train six days a week, twice a day. It takes a toll on your body. The sport itself is based on contact so something like a slideboard is a nice break because it's low impact and a smoother experience that ultimately improves your speed and movement. 

What differences in performance did you notice after you began using the ULTRASLIDE in a more targeted way?

I noticed immediate differences in my footwork. The slideboard teaches you how to generate power in the lateral movement. My speed also improved. I haven't found anything else that does that so quickly.

Why do you think the ULTRASLIDE is effective for martial artists?

MMA is based on finite space movement – there are so many sports that move forward to back. When you close in during MMA, it's only 20 to 30 feet across. There isn't a lot of movement. You're cutting to the side looking for an angle to land a strike or a takedown. MMA is definitely a laterally dominated sport and the ULTRASLIDE mimics that movement perfectly.

Mountain climbers on the ULTRALIDE slideboard have multiple
benefits including enhanced explosive power and speed.

What are your go-to exercises or routines when utilizing the ULTRASLIDE? 

There are many! We definitely get our time our of it. I start with the lateral slide when clients are new to using a slideboard. I want them to start with the basics and we build from there. If someone is nervous about getting on the slideboard, we position it in conjunction with the TRX suspension system so they have stabilization to build comfort. We take a graduated approach starting with two hands holding on to the straps, the only one hand holding on and then freestanding as they begin to generate speed and power.

Once they're comfortable, I incorporate my favorite three ULTRASLIDE movements – lateral sliding focusing on intervals and speed; mountain climbers for speed, and lunge variations to challenge balance, core strength and stability. When they want a challenge, I can do simple things like adding weight. But most find the ULTRASLIDE is a challenge within itself! When I'm not training I also use it personally - I think it's really a fantastic tool. 

The lateral slide on the ULTRASLIDE is a
hallmark movement - tried and true.

Learn more about the ULTRASLIDE slideboard and its application to a variety of training contexts here.