Maxim, what technique do you prefer?

My main techniques are hook and side pressure. I’m well predisposed to those genetically, I’ve got short forearms (before armwrestling I did weightlifting, I even got to national levels), and I like “hard” fights. Those are rare among those who fight over the top. Very seldom, when I feel I’ve got my opponent where I want him, I strike over the top, but I never experiment during important fights.

What exercises do you recommend to become a champion?

I think sparring is the best training. I work out for 5-6 days in 10 days cycles. I work in stages: hook, forearm, wrist and side pressure. 2 months before a competition I mainly do basics, stamina and heavy weights.

To practice technique I mostly do sparring. I also like pulley work and some finger work – some over the top guys are hard to defend against. I also do some pronations.

How do you regenerate after sparrings and when fighting in competitions?

Regeneration is a very important factor, both in training and fighting. I treat my body seriously, I try not to strain it too hard. I think it’s best to avoid injury, instead of having to treat it. I can still remember my beginnings, when I was all guts and no experience. I had a lot of injuries back then. The more experienced guys told me to take some supplements for joints and tendons. Working with small weights and expanders also helped a lot. I’ve had no injury for a long time now, I take collagen, glucosamine and gelatin. When I’m preparing for a competition, I also take vitamins and calcium.

Anastasia Kisilewa