Mixed Martial Arts has become incredibly popular in recent years and many people ask me how to start training for the sport. Many people come from other marts arts backgrounds and have trained in judo, aikido, jujitsu and other arts. These are of course fantastic foundations but the unique nature of the sport means a unique approach is required to start Mixed Martial Arts training.
If you are serious about taking part in MMA events it goes without saying that a high level of dedication will be required. You must of course be in a very good state of health before you start training. The risk of injury can be quite high and it's important that your body is ready to recover.
The following are key elements of training for an MMA fight.
Fitness. This may seem obvious but it has to be said. MMA is an extremely physical sport and a high level of fitness is essential. Everything from running to swimming, cycling to cross-training will build your general fitness level. I do a lot of gym work and anything which raises your heart level into a cardio zone will help. Using weights is also important. This isn't about building visible muscle it's about building core strength. Stronger muscles mean less injury as well as advantages in a fight situation.
Technique. MMA fighers come from a wide range of martial arts backgrounds and you will of course need to know techniques to stand a chance of winning a fight. Martial arts where grappling is taught are important but also where kicking and stiking are involved. Most fights end up in the floor!
Learn to take some knocks! I've trained with many martial artists who are highly skilled but can't take a punch! Not all systems are taught 'full contact' and I see this as a big mistake. You have to be prepared to take a few blows and keep on fighting. A good method is to do some boxing - wear head gear and let some blows hit home so you get used to the impact.
Mix up your training. Having a gym routine is great but don't do the same thing over and over and expect to improve! Even in your martial arts I suggest you try some different classes and courses. You can learn something from every art
Study books and martial arts DVDs. MMA is a physical sport but you can improve your technical skills by reading and watching courses. There are some great self defence courses online you can sign up to. AIm to keep learning and expanding your knowledge.
Watch some MMA fights. You will increasingly see Mixed Martial Arts on television and watching fights is a great way to improve your techniques. You can observe new moves and their effects on an opponent. You can see counter-moves and get a general feeling for how a fight progresses.
Get the right MMA equipment. You will need some good quality MMA gloves and the right footwear as essentials. MMA footwear can't have laces or buckles for obvious reasons. I also suggest a good free standing punch bag to practise techniques and generally improve your fitness and stamina.
Mixed Martial Arts training is incredibly rewarding in itself and by following this basic advice you should have a very good grounding to start.
No comments:
Post a Comment