Photo Credit- BoxingScene.com

Andre Wards dramatic stoppage of bitter rival Sergei Kovalev has everyone talking how the tables may have been turned. Kovalev known for his knock out power was the obivious choice for who was going to land the more devastating shots. Of course performance coach Aaron Thigpen of Gamespeed and Andre  Ward knew something else. Scott Christ of SB Nation commented in a recent article:

” The power punches were a real surprise, with Ward landing 53 of 144 (37%) and Kovalev scoring on 50 of 223 (22%), with Ward often seeming like he was landing the harder shots.”

Suprise? well not to me. From the onset of our training we worked on improving Andre’s power. Where did it come from? The answer, a complex series of rotational exercises aimed at utilizing Andres improved leg strength. Quite simply we established a better kinetic chain or simply connection between his legs, hips, and upper body torso. I believe “force/power”  starts from the ground up.  Any problems in coordination, balance,  range of motion or joint stability will prevent that “force/power” to stop prematurely in the chain or leak resulting in limited or no force/power. If you want STOPPING POWER like Andre Ward add rotational exercises into your routine.

 

Concord Ca- Aaron Thigpen of Gamespeed Sports Training,  has been working with Andre Ward for over six years. With the exception of Kovalev Ward I (trainer Mackey Shilstone stepped in) he has prepared Andre for every fight since his Super Six win over Carl Froch. Aaron is also the trainer for Andre Berto who displayed knock out power in his revenge match versus Ortiz back in 2016 stopping Ortiz in the 4th. Other boxing clients include 2016 US Olympic Trials Super Heavyweight champion Marlo Moore.

Want to train?  Contact Aaron at 925 513-8676, visit our website www.gamespeed.net