Maxim Merkulow: “Sparring is the best workout” 16:00 05/06/2014 The Ukrainian heavyweight’s preparations for fighting with hook. Not what you were looking for? Search for other text. 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