Traditional Indian Strength Training
I use ancient Indian equipment like the Mudgar and Gada to build functional strength and balance. It is challenging, deeply grounding, and a perfect complement to my movement practice.
Embarking on my strength journey with traditional Indian techniques. This video shows a few of the movements, including the Samtola and Mudgar. I'm fascinated by the intricate details and how they access different movement chains.
Working out with a buddy makes every session better. Here are some of the benefits I've experienced from Tagda Raho: functional strength beyond dumbbells, a deeper understanding of my body's biomechanics, and enhanced core stability.
What can you expect at a Tagda Raho session? Pulling heavy sandbags that make you question everything, but leave you feeling strong. We also have fun games and races with the coolest instructors.
There's nothing like a workout in the sand. Repeating my full routine in the sandpit adds a new challenge, forcing me to be more aware of my stability and balance. Gripping the sand with your feet while lifting is a unique feeling.
My first time trying a Tagda Raho session was a great challenge for my upper body strength and shoulder mobility. The workout in the sand was my favorite part, and pulling that 30kg bag was tough but rewarding.
Getting ripped with a traditional Indian workout. I'm challenging myself with heavier equipment to keep growing stronger. Each session I get more comfortable with the movements and can't wait for the next one.
A few rounds of this shoulder asht with the Gada and you'll feel incredibly powerful. Every week I unlock an old movement and am challenged with something new. This workout explores a full range of motion for the shoulders.
This is a kneeling double hand pullback to a double hand Thor press, done in the sandpit. The unstable surface of the sand makes this Gada exercise even more challenging for the core and stabilizing muscles.
About Exploring Indian Strength Training
Training in the sand pit changes everything. It removes the stability of a gym floor, forcing you to engage your core just to balance while moving equipment like the Mudgar. It is not about lifting the heaviest load immediately, it is about learning to grip, stabilize, and flow through these ancient patterns with control.
Why I mix in Indian Strength Training
While my roots are in yoga and flow arts, I have found that traditional Indian tools like the Mudgar (wooden club) and Gada (mace) provide a unique kind of strength. They don't just target isolated muscles. Instead, they force your body to work as a single unit. Because these tools are asymmetrical or require swinging motions, your stabilizer muscles in the shoulders and core work overtime.
The 'Sand Pit' Effect
You will notice many of my sessions happen in the sand pit. This isn't just for aesthetics. Training on sand creates an unstable surface, which means every time you plant your feet, your body has to actively search for balance. It makes simple movements like a squat or a press much more demanding, and it helps build incredible ankle and knee stability that gym floors just cannot replicate.
What to expect in a session
We focus on movement chains rather than reps for the sake of reps. You will learn to move the Gada or the Samtola with intention, focusing on the quality of the arc and the weight distribution. Whether you are a total beginner or an experienced lifter, there is always a new 'Asht' (movement) to unlock. My goal is for you to walk out feeling powerful, not just tired. It is hard work, but we keep the vibe playful, fun, and communal. Come ready to get a bit of sand on your mat and test your coordination in ways you have not tried before.
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