The first time I heard tendon strength mentioned as a focal point of training was back in 2004 at a Russian Systema school here in my city. The instructor, Saulius “Sonny” Puzikas, had served in Special Operations (Spetsnaz) before the collapse of the Soviet Union.
He knew what mattered in the real world when. it came to training, and I took his advice.
Tendon strengthening is part of our training here at the Cave.
Since that time I learned many others focus on tendon strength, especially those who do Strongman training. While other strength sports also realize the importance of it; I have learned the most from Strongmen.
The latest issue of Milo has an excellent article on this subject by Dr. William Crawford.
He stresses building a solid foundation of full ROM movements, then adding heavy partial lifts and carries. We use these often in our training, in fact, I increased their use after having some tendon injuries. I have not had any other injuries since that time.
Tendons do not heal as fast as muscles, it is wise to protect them.
Strong tendons won’t make you bullet-proof, but they will definitely help you train safer and get much stronger.
The Cave 