Saturday, August 31, 2013

Classes That Help MMA Fighters Build Strength

By Rod Bourgoine


Training for mixed martial arts might not be easy, but it is sure to get you in prime physical condition and also will increase your mental focus. MMA fighters need to learn a variety of different types of martial arts, including Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and probably Judo, as well. In addition to these three common areas of study, there are a few other types of classes that it is wise to think about taking. Here are a few other classes that can improve your fitness level and fighting skills.

While some MMA fighters want to stick only with martial arts, it is much wiser to at least take some boxing classes. Boxing instruction is the best way to learn how to throw punches and often more importantly to learn how to avoid being punched or kicked and how to take or absorb a blow without letting it take you down. In addition, improvements in hand-eye coordination and your overall footwork will be improved through your boxing classes.

There are many MMA experts out there who emphasize the importance of wrestling as a fundamental skill that all MMA athletes should acquire. Wrestlers are tough and strong, and wrestling is a difficult skill to master, so if you can master wrestling, you probably will have a huge advantage over most of your opponents. Wrestling allows you more options than that of many fighting styles, and if you mix wrestling with a few other skills such as some solid Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu takedowns and holds, you will be a much stronger fighter.

In addition to boxing, wrestling and martial arts, taking strength training or conditioning classes is a big must. After all, it is these types of classes that will improve your overall fitness level as well as your level of endurance, making it easier for you to overcome an opponent. If possible, it is always best to find an MMA gym where these strength training classes are offered along with an assortment of other classes including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, boxing and more. You'll also want to find a gym with a flat monthly fee that allows you to take as many different classes as you want.

Most MMA gyms, of course, offer classes that teach you how to integrate all your knowledge into actual mixed martial arts fighting. If you are a beginner, you might be intimidated about taking an MMA class, but don't be. A good MMA gym matches people by experience level, and the goal of your trainers is to help you, not to humiliate you. It's hard work, but it's also fun, and you will probably quickly love the challenge of contact fighting.

In recent years, there also have been some fitness training classes developed that can be of great use to someone training in MMA. The Arena MMA in San Diego, for example, has designed a program that they call FightBuilt. These are strengthening and conditioning classes designed especially to accommodate the physical challenges that MMA fighters face. CrossFit is another popular fitness program to look at, and this program was created to improve a person's overall fitness in ten different areas, from cardiovascular strength to flexibility to overall power.




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