Latest news with #ConorBenn
The Independent
2 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
‘Don't try this at home' - the brutal NFL strength and conditioning protocol that some boxers can also benefit from
The French contrast method is not for everyone; it is even too intense for some professional athletes. But those with the capacity to handle it can reap the rewards. This strength and conditioning protocol, comprising four exercises performed back to back, is used by Perform 365 chief executive and coach Dan Lawrence to develop enviable levels of strength and power in some of the elite athletes he works with. One of these athletes is Conor Benn, who incorporated the method into his preparations to take on Chris Eubank Jr. 'Conor has a very high training age, meaning he has lots of strength and conditioning experience, so he is able to do something like this, which is incredibly advanced,' Lawrence explains. 'There are not many fighters I would be putting through this, but Conor is at a level where he adapts really well to it.' Here is how to use this protocol, and why – for the crème de la crème of the sporting world – it could hold the key to improved performance. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dan Lawrence - Perform365 (@danlawrence365) Conor Benn's French contrast method protocol: Perform four rounds of the sequence below, with 20 to 30 seconds of rest between exercises and three to five minutes of rest between rounds Quarter squats from blocks x3 (180kg, in Benn's case) Unloaded countermovement jump x3 (this is a max-height vertical jump) Barbell jump squat x3 (with a load that feels 'relatively heavy but can still be moved explosively'– roughly 30 per cent of your one-rep max squat, in this case Band-assisted over speed jump x3 (a vertical jump while holding a band attached to an anchor point above you to help propel you upward) The French contrast method comprises four exercises performed back to back. These exercises are all biomechanically similar, with fairly uniform joint angles and muscle recruitment throughout. However, they occupy different portions of the force-velocity curve – a graph demonstrating the inverse relationship between force and velocity, with the body forced to slow down when lifting heavier loads, and able to move faster when lifting lighter ones. The first exercise is a heavily loaded compound movement such as a squat. This targets developments in maximum strength, or the maximum weight a person can lift, with the goal of recruiting as many motor units as possible. Up next is an unloaded jump, with more of a focus on improving speed. This will have a slower and longer ground contact time, Lawrence says. This is followed by a loaded explosive exercise to work on speed-strength, which is the ability to create a lot of force, fast. And finally, there is an assisted explosive exercise, in this case a jump assisted by a resistance band, for overspeed work. This involves working at a velocity that is greater than normal to again promote speed and power development. Benefits of the French contrast method The French contrast method was created by sports scientist and track and field coach Gilles Cometti, and more recently developed by strength coach Cal Dietz, to 'exploit various areas of the force-velocity curve in order to bring out an acute physiological response,' according to an article by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. 'The method aims to increase post-activation performance enhancement through a combination of traditional resistance training and plyometrics exercises leading to greater rate of force development, movement velocity and power production.' In layman's terms: you can generate more speed and power during the later, lighter lifts after tackling the earlier, heavier loads. It is almost like picking up a bag you expected to be heavy, only to find it is empty and flies off the ground. A 2024 study published in the Journal of Musculoskeletal and Neuronal Interactions found that football players who used the French contrast method for six weeks saw improved performance in their vertical jump, 30m sprint and dynamic balance – the ability to maintain balance while moving or changing direction, which is of particular importance in a sporting context. Further formal scientific research into the method is limited, and the mechanisms behind its efficacy are still largely uncertain. However, as with many training principles, the proof is in the pudding, with many strength and conditioning coaches implementing it to great effect with their athletes. Who should use the French contrast method? The French Contrast method is not for everyone, Lawrence stresses. As Matchroom Boxing 's head of performance, he says there are even professional fighters he would avoid assigning it to. He says: 'If you give someone with a low training age this method, which was popularised around NFL athletes – high-octane, explosive athletes – they will just crumble and break down,' he explains. He concludes: 'The demand on the neuromuscular system is incredibly high, which is why the athlete must have a high training age to reap the rewards from this kind of system, from a physiological point of view. A base level of foundational strength and a good number of years of weight training experience would be advised before attempting such an advanced method.'
Scottish Sun
4 days ago
- Sport
- Scottish Sun
‘I will get back in the ring' – Chris Eubank Sr, 58, reveals what would see him make shock boxing return
WOULD EU BELIEVE IT? 'I will get back in the ring' – Chris Eubank Sr, 58, reveals what would see him make shock boxing return CHRIS EUBANK SR has tried to talk his son out of a rematch with Conor Benn by threatening to return to the ring himself. Eubank Jr, 35, is on course to run back last month's incredible Tottenham tussle in a rematch SunSport understands is being eyed for September 27. 3 Chris Eubank Jr went to war with Conor Benn last month at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Credit: GETTY 3 A second straight Spurs slugfest is on the cards Credit: GETTY 3 Senior wants his namesake to retire and has threatened to return to the ring aged 58 if he fights again Credit: REUTERS Senior, who made an eleventh-hour decision to attend the controversial catchweight clash, has begged his namesake to sail off into the sunset while he still has all his faculties. And he hopes the threat of him lacing up the gloves at the ripe old age of 58 will scare his son stiff and prompt him to walk away from the sport. During the latest episode of his Call Chris Eubank podcast, he said: 'What suits Junior, in my view? He doesn't need to do anything else. "He'll never better than [that] performance. There's two of us now, there's nothing we can't do. READ MORE IN BOXING LO BLOW World champion boxer left unemployed aged 27 as he reveals he has been FIRED 'If you don't get back into the ring Jr, then neither will I. "But if you get back in the ring, I will get back in the ring in some exhibition match. "I'm going to pressure you. You want to fight again? OK, then I will fight too. Cause I'm with you.' Senior, a former world champion at middle and super-middleweight, called time on his legendary career in 1998 following losses to Carl Thompson and Joe Calzaghe. JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS Eubank Jr vs Benn: SunSport's verdict THIRTY-FIVE YEARS of the Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr rivalry was settled with 36 minutes of violence. Yet with all the tremendous heart shown by both boxers, there wasn't much technique, skill or finesse on display here. After tons of trash talking, egg throwing and mind games that have been played out to the world over the last three years, SunSport's Wally Downes Jr gives his verdict on what should be the final chapter in one of British boxing's biggest beefs. Read here to find out why the 12-round slugfest should not be repeated - and why the rivalry should now be put to bed. But he hasn't been tempted to come out of retirement for one last payday like former heavyweight champs Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson And other than Junior, who was hospitalised with severe dehydration after his decision win over Benn, fighting again, there's nothing that could tempt 'Simply the Best' to make the lonely walk to the ring again. How Eubank Sr's stunning return helped secure son's victory | Split Decision | Knockout Analysis In an exclusive interview with Sunsport, the Brit boxing icon said: 'I wouldn't sell my peace of mind for the world. "No, I'm not taking aim again as I already hit the bullseye. "If I take aim again, I know I'm not going to be able to hit the bullseye. "You only can do that in your 20s. I've aimed, fired and I'm grateful for my score. "All the gold in Buckingham Palace could not make this king go back in there and put it on the line." He added: "I'm happy. You show me a man that would jeopardise his happiness and I'll show you a fool."
The Sun
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
‘I will get back in the ring' – Chris Eubank Sr, 58, reveals what would see him make shock boxing return
CHRIS EUBANK SR has tried to talk his son out of a rematch with Conor Benn by threatening to return to the ring himself. Eubank Jr, 35, is on course to run back last month's incredible Tottenham tussle in a rematch SunSport understands is being eyed for September 27. 3 3 3 Senior, who made an eleventh-hour decision to attend the controversial catchweight clash, has begged his namesake to sail off into the sunset while he still has all his faculties. And he hopes the threat of him lacing up the gloves at the ripe old age of 58 will scare his son stiff and prompt him to walk away from the sport. During the latest episode of his Call Chris Eubank podcast, he said: 'What suits Junior, in my view? He doesn't need to do anything else. "He'll never better than [that] performance. There's two of us now, there's nothing we can't do. 'If you don't get back into the ring Jr, then neither will I. "But if you get back in the ring, I will get back in the ring in some exhibition match. "I'm going to pressure you. You want to fight again? OK, then I will fight too. Cause I'm with you.' Senior, a former world champion at middle and super-middleweight, called time on his legendary career in 1998 following losses to Carl Thompson and Joe Calzaghe. JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS Eubank Jr vs Benn: SunSport's verdict THIRTY-FIVE YEARS of the Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr rivalry was settled with 36 minutes of violence. Yet with all the tremendous heart shown by both boxers, there wasn't much technique, skill or finesse on display here. After tons of trash talking, egg throwing and mind games that have been played out to the world over the last three years, SunSport's Wally Downes Jr gives his verdict on what should be the final chapter in one of British boxing's biggest beefs. Read here to find out why the 12-round slugfest should not be repeated - and why the rivalry should now be put to bed. But he hasn't been tempted to come out of retirement for one last payday like former heavyweight champs Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson And other than Junior, who was hospitalised with severe dehydration after his decision win over Benn, fighting again, there's nothing that could tempt 'Simply the Best' to make the lonely walk to the ring again. How Eubank Sr's stunning return helped secure son's victory | Split Decision | Knockout Analysis In an exclusive interview with Sunsport, the Brit boxing icon said: 'I wouldn't sell my peace of mind for the world. "No, I'm not taking aim again as I already hit the bullseye. "If I take aim again, I know I'm not going to be able to hit the bullseye. "You only can do that in your 20s. I've aimed, fired and I'm grateful for my score. "All the gold in Buckingham Palace could not make this king go back in there and put it on the line."
The Irish Sun
4 days ago
- Sport
- The Irish Sun
‘I will get back in the ring' – Chris Eubank Sr, 58, reveals what would see him make shock boxing return
CHRIS EUBANK SR has tried to talk his son out of a rematch with Conor Benn by threatening to return to the ring himself. Eubank Jr, 35, is on course to run back last month's incredible Tottenham tussle in a rematch SunSport understands is being eyed for September 27. 3 Chris Eubank Jr went to war with Conor Benn last month at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Credit: GETTY 3 A second straight Spurs slugfest is on the cards Credit: GETTY 3 Senior wants his namesake to retire and has threatened to return to the ring aged 58 if he fights again Credit: REUTERS Senior, who made an eleventh-hour decision to attend the controversial catchweight clash, has begged his namesake to sail off into the sunset while he still has all his faculties. And he hopes the threat of him lacing up the gloves at the ripe old age of 58 will scare his son stiff and prompt him to walk away from the sport. During the latest episode of his suits Junior, in my view? He doesn't need to do anything else. "He'll never better than [that] performance. There's two of us now, there's nothing we can't do. READ MORE IN BOXING 'If you don't get back into the ring Jr, then neither will I. "But if you get back in the ring, I will get back in the ring in some exhibition match. "I'm going to pressure you. You want to fight again? OK, then I will fight too. Cause I'm with you.' Senior, a former world champion at middle and super-middleweight, called time on his legendary career in 1998 following losses to Carl Thompson and Most read in Boxing JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS Eubank Jr vs Benn: SunSport's verdict THIRTY-FIVE YEARS of the Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr rivalry was settled with 36 minutes of violence. Yet with all the tremendous heart shown by both boxers, there wasn't much technique, skill or finesse on display here. After tons of trash talking, egg throwing and mind games that have been played out to the world over the last three years, SunSport's Wally Downes Jr gives his verdict on what should be the final chapter in one of British boxing's biggest beefs. But he hasn't been tempted to come out of retirement for one last payday like former heavyweight champs And other than Junior, who was hospitalised with severe dehydration after his decision win over Benn, fighting again, there's nothing that could tempt 'Simply the Best' to make the lonely walk to the ring again. How Eubank Sr's stunning return helped secure son's victory | Split Decision | Knockout Analysis In an exclusive interview with Sunsport, the Brit boxing icon said: 'I wouldn't sell my peace of mind for the world. "No, I'm not taking aim again as I already hit the bullseye. "If I take aim again, I know I'm not going to be able to hit the bullseye. "You only can do that in your 20s. I've aimed, fired and I'm grateful for my score. "All the gold in Buckingham Palace could not make this king go back in there and put it on the line." He added: "I'm happy. You show me a man that would jeopardise his happiness and I'll show you a fool."
The Independent
4 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
The one strength training exercise Canelo, Dubois and Usyk's training regimes all have in common
A boxer is not a bodybuilder. Sure, many of them flex their biceps post weigh-in and look pretty good doing it, but their impressive physiques are merely a byproduct of their training. Their main aim in the gym is improving performance, not aesthetics. As a fitness writer, a large part of my job is chatting with top coaches and taking a deep dive into the training regimes of elite athletes. Across every boxer I've written about, whether that's Canelo Álvarez, Daniel Dubois, Conor Benn or Johnny Fisher, one exercise has been ever-present: the landmine press. Catch all the latest boxing action on DAZN If you are unfamiliar, this exercise involves wedging one end of a barbell into the corner of a room (or another secure anchor point) then loading the other end up with plates and pressing it overhead with one arm from a standing position. Here is how to do it, and four reasons why I think it is boxing's best-kept strength and conditioning secret. How to do the landmine press Place one end of a barbell on the ground wedged into the corner of a room. You can also place it in the hole of a weight plate or use a custom-built landmine attachment. Load the other end of the barbell up with the weight plates you plan to lift. Assume a staggered stance with your left foot forward and hold the very end of the barbell in your right hand with your knuckles facing away from you and your hand level with your right shoulder. Brace your core then, rotating your body slightly, press the barbell overhead until your arm is fully extended. Control it back down to the starting position. There are a number of benefits arising from using the landmine press. Ability to develop multiple portions of the force-velocity curve The force-velocity curve describes the inverse relationship between the force a muscle can create and the speed at which it can move. In layman's terms: an athlete can move a light weight quickly, a heavy weight slowly, and a moderate-weight at a speed somewhere in between. Each of these actions develops slightly different attributes, and the landmine press can be applied to hit most of them. You can load it up with heavy weights and perform up to five repetitions to develop maximal strength in the working muscles; a set of five to 30 repetitions at a moderate weight and tempo can be used to build size; a landmine punch (explosively throwing the barbell away from you) can be implemented to develop power. The landmine punch is a favourite among boxers, and something I have seen in both Dubois and Canelo's training. However, all of these applications can find a place in a well-rounded workout programme. Unilateral development and shoulder health Unilateral exercises are those that target one side of the body at a time; think Bulgarian split squats or single-arm rows. Sport is inherently unilateral – a boxer throwing a punch with both hands simultaneously is as likely as a runner jumping forward with both feet – so it pays to train this way. The landmine press offers more specificity to the sport of boxing than a standard barbell or machine overhead press, having you drive one arm forward at a time. It also allows your shoulder and scapula to move more naturally, developing smaller stabilising muscles like those in the rotator cuff while reducing stress on the joint. These factors combine to create stronger shoulders which are far more resilient to injury – vital in a sport like boxing where huge demands are regularly placed on the joint. Unilateral exercises can also be used to develop balance, coordination and iron out muscular imbalances, as an added bonus. Operating in the transverse plane The body operates in three planes of motion: sagittal (up, down, forwards and backwards), frontal (side to side) and transverse (rotational). Most strength and conditioning exercises are heavily sagittal-dominant, whereas most sports require you to access a wide range of movements. The body also adheres to an informal 'use it or lose it' premise. By mostly training sagittal-oriented movements, the resultantly redundant muscles used in twisting or bending motions may weaken and tighten, leaving you stiff like a stereotypical bodybuilder rather than athletic like a boxer. To prevent this, training in all three planes of motion is key. When the landmine press is performed with a slight rotation of the torso towards the barbell – the execution I've observed in most boxers' training – it mimics the torque required in a punch. It also strengthens the requisite muscles, tendons and ligaments, increasing the athlete's tissue tolerance and capacity in this movement. The result is a more athletic, powerful and mobile fighter. Practicing power transfer and improving core strength Your core musculature, found around the trunk and hips, acts as a power transfer centre between your upper and lower body. In boxing, power is generated from the ground up, starting at the feet before transferring through the legs, into the core, then along your upper extremities. The more efficiently you can transfer power, the better this will translate to an effective punch. The landmine press is an excellent exercise for developing this. By supporting a weight overhead and completing a twisting motion, it can strengthen core muscles such as the rectus abdominis (six-pack muscles) and obliques (which run down either side of your torso). It also places you in a sport-specific split stance, giving you ground contact time to practice generating power through the floor, and developing the proprioception (awareness of the movement of your body) needed to do so. Watch the very best boxing with a DAZN subscription DAZN is the home of combat sports, broadcasting over 185 fights a year from the world's best promoters, including Matchroom, Queensberry, Golden Boy, Misfits, PFL, BKFC, GLORY and more. An Annual Saver subscription is a one-off cost of £119.99 / $224.99 (for 12 months access), that's just 64p / $1.21 per fight. There is also a Monthly Flex Pass option (cancel any time) at £24.99 / $29.99 per month.
