Hwoarang Training Plan: Workout like the Tekken Taekwondo Master
In this segment of the Character Training series, we bring in another character from the Tekken lineup!
First, we covered Jin Kazama; now it only makes sense to cover Hwoarang, a huge fan favorite, as well as my own personal favorite/main!
Hwoarang Physique Ranking
Over at Action Hero Athletics, we devised a system for physique analysis. We call it the attainability scale.
This system helps us discover the realistic aspects of a character's physique and if it is genuinely realistic/attainable.
Tier 1: Realistically achievable (Natty)
Tier 2: Giga Genetics (Natty, but maybe not as easily attainable)
Tier 3: Not natty (requires PED's for maintenance)
Hwoarang's physique is placed in the Tier 2 category.
Let's take a look at what puts him in this category:
Muscle Mass and Definition: Hwoarang has a lean and well-defined physique. While his physique is impressive, it doesn't come with the extreme mass monster look or definition typically associated with Tier 3 (Not natty) physiques, which often require performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) for maintenance. His physique is within what could be achieved naturally for individuals with giga genetics and dedicated training.
Vascularity and Symmetry: Hwoarang's physique also has vascularity and symmetry, often indicators of low body fat percentage and well-developed muscles. These attributes can be attained through disciplined training and nutrition.
Overall Aesthetics: Hwoarang's physique is aesthetically pleasing, with well-proportioned muscle development and a lack of extreme size or hypertrophy that typically indicates PED use. His physique represents a balance between functionality for combat and visual appeal. These characteristics are achievable naturally for individuals with exceptional genetics and dedicated training.
In summary, Hwoarang's physique in Tekken fits into Tier 2: Giga Genetics (Natty, but not as easily attainable) due to its impressive yet realistically achievable nature within the context of the game universe and the characteristics it exhibits. While his physique is remarkable, it doesn't stray into the territory of requiring PEDs for maintenance, but it may necessitate exceptional genetics and dedicated training to attain similar results in real life.
But remember, just because a Tier 2 physique is attainable for genetics doesn't mean it is impossible for Tier 1 guys and gals like me. It'll just require the rest of us to dial in more.
Here are some Tier 2 physiques we’ve covered at Action Hero Athletics: Moon Knight, Blade,Omni-Man, Baki Hanma, Ohma Tokita, Kratos, Deathstroke , Jin, Superman.
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Hwoarang Training Principles
Hwoarang's performance in the arena is not just a result of his talent but also his commitment to the fundamental principles of martial arts training. Let's get a bit deeper into how he achieves his abilities:
Mastery of Taekwondo: At the core of Hwoarang's training lies the art of Taekwondo. This Korean martial art emphasizes dynamic kicking techniques, rapid footwork, and fluid movements. Hwoarang's journey to mastery begins with a deep understanding of Taekwondo's fundamental forms (poomsae) and techniques. He dedicates countless hours to perfecting his execution of high-flying kicks, spinning strikes, and precise footwork, knowing that every movement is executed with maximum speed and efficiency.
Guiding Principles
Hwoarang's training philosophy revolves around several fundamental principles that resulted in his success:
Discipline and Focus: Hwoarang approaches his training with focus, recognizing that mastery requires consistent effort and daily repetition. He maintains a strict training regimen, prioritizing quality over quantity in every session.
Adaptability and Versatility: Hwoarang understands the importance of adaptability and versatility in the ever-evolving world of martial arts. He constantly seeks to expand his skill set by incorporating elements from other martial arts disciplines, such as boxing, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, into his training. This allows him to seamlessly transition between different combat styles and adapt to any opponent in the arena.
Mind-Body Connection: Central to Hwoarang's training is cultivating a solid mind-body connection. He practices mindfulness and meditation to sharpen his focus, enhance proprioception, and maintain mental clarity during combat. Hwoarang can unleash his full potential in the heat of battle by syncing his physical movements with his breath and thoughts.
Translating Abilities to Real-Life Skills
While Hwoarang's feats may seem superhuman in the Tekken universe, many of his skills can be translated into real-life scenarios:
Agility and Speed: Hwoarang's lightning-fast kicks and agile footwork are not just for show; they are practical tools for evading attacks, closing the distance on opponents, and delivering strikes with precision. Incorporating plyometric exercises, agility drills, and speed training into your regimen can enhance your agility and speed, making you a more elusive and formidable combatant.
Striking Techniques: Whether a spinning hook kick or a jumping roundhouse kick, Hwoarang's striking techniques are designed to inflict maximum damage with minimal effort. By mastering the mechanics of these techniques and practicing them diligently, you can develop powerful striking skills that can incapacitate opponents in real-life self-defense situations.
Footwork and Balance: Hwoarang's fluid footwork and impeccable balance are the foundation of his offensive and defensive capabilities. By practicing balance exercises, footwork drills, and proprioceptive training, you can improve your stability and agility, allowing you to move with grace and confidence inside and outside the dojo.
In essence, training like Hwoarang is not just about recreating his flashy moves or impressive combos; it's about embracing the principles of martial arts discipline, achieving a solid mind-body connection, and honing practical combat skills that can be applied in real-life scenarios.
From a gym bro's perspective, here is what we need to create a hwoarang-inspired workout:
Hwoarang's Agility and Balance
Hwoarang's Strength and Power
Hwoarang's Martial Arts Ability
Now, Let’s get into some training!
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Training schedule: 4 days
Training Style: This workout is for those who want muscle gains and martial arts skills. Each strength workout will be split into the PPL split. Martial Arts workouts will include technical practice and muscle/cardio endurance circuits!
Workout #1: Hwoarang Push Day
Barbell Bench Press: 3 sets x 8 reps
Dumbbell Shoulder Press: 3 sets x 8 reps
Incline Dumbbell Bench Press: 3 sets x 8 reps
Triceps Dips: 3 sets x 10 reps
Explosive Push-Ups: 3 sets x 10 reps
Medicine Ball Throws: 3 sets x 8 reps
Workout #2: Hwoarang Leg Day
Barbell Squats: 3 sets x 8 reps
Jump Squats: 3 sets x 10 reps
Bulgarian Split Squats: 3 sets x 8 reps (each leg)
Calf Raises: 3 sets x 15 reps
Box Jumps: 3 sets x 8 reps
Leg Press Machine: 3 sets x 10 reps
Workout #3: Hwoarang Pull Workout
Barbell Deadlifts: 3 sets x 8 reps
Pull-Ups: 3 sets x 8 reps
Bent-Over Barbell Rows: 3 sets x 8 reps
Single-Arm Dumbbell Rows: 3 sets x 10 reps (each arm)
Hammer Curls: 3 sets x 10 reps
Reverse Flyes: 3 sets x 12 reps
Workout 4: Hwoarang Martial Arts Workout
Phase 1: Warm-up
Jumping Jacks: 3 sets x 1 minute
Arm Circles: 2 sets x 20 seconds (forward and backward)
Leg Swings: 2 sets x 20 seconds (each leg)
High Knees: 3 sets x 1 minute
Dynamic Stretching: Perform leg swings, arm swings, torso twists, and hip circles to loosen up the muscles and joints.
Phase 2: Kettlebells + Bodyweight Circuit
Perform each exercise back-to-back with minimal rest. Rest for 1-2 minutes between circuits. Complete 3-4 circuits in total.
Kettlebell Swings: 15 reps
Bodyweight Squats: 15 reps
Kettlebell Goblet Squats: 12 reps
Push-Ups: 12 reps
Jump Squats: 15 reps
Phase 3: Technical Practice (Taekwondo)
Focus on mastering Hwoarang's signature techniques, such as:
Roundhouse Kicks: Practice proper form and technique, emphasizing hip rotation and extension.
Spin Kicks: Execute spinning hook kicks and tornado kicks, maintaining balance and control throughout the movement.
Crescent Kicks: Perform crescent kicks with precision, focusing on targeting specific areas and maintaining fluidity.
Jumping Kicks: Practice jumping front kicks and jumping roundhouse kicks, focusing on explosive power and timing.
Drill each technique slowly and deliberately to ensure proper form and technique.
Gradually increase speed and intensity as you become more comfortable with the movements.
Focus on footwork, balance, and coordination, essential elements of Taekwondo and Hwoarang's fighting style.
Incorporate shadowboxing and partner drills to simulate real combat scenarios and enhance reaction time.
Cool Down:
Perform static stretches targeting the muscles used during the workout, holding each stretch for 20-30 seconds.
Focus on stretching the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, shoulders, and chest.
Finish with deep breathing and relaxation techniques to promote recovery and reduce muscle tension.
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Hwoarang Strength Workout: Additional Resources
Hwoarang Martial Arts/Endurance Workout: Additional Resources
MMA Workouts
