MMA Competition Training

Mixed Martial Arts competition training is a combination of strength and conditioning work as well as sparring. It's not possible to become a successful MMA fighter by fighting alone, nor is it possible to compete successfully without practicing against a live opponent.

As with most sports a MMA training routine can be broken into phases, including strength and conditioning. Sparring can and should be practiced throughout the training period. This type of periodized training leads to more significant gains than if strength and conditioning are performed at the same levels throughout the training.

One of the most important aspects of mixed martial arts training is weight control. It's important to determine the weight at which you wish to compete and lose any excess weight during the conditioning phase. Many fighters fight at a weight that is substantially below their "natural" weight. This allows them to have a higher muscle to bodyweight ratio then they would otherwise. This can be an advantage against a competitor, unless of course they are doing the same thing! If you do chose to cut weight it's important to do so safely. There are techniques for rapidly losing weight in the 24-48 hours before weigh-in that can be quite dangerous. Always seek the advise of your physician.

It's important to use appropriate protective gear while sparring during competition training. Wearing training gloves with additional padding can preserve your hands for the upcoming match. The use of instep and ship guards can ensure your shins and feet aren't already tender going into the match. Appropriate head gear, including a face shield is a must to protect your head. While at this point it's not thought that MMA style fighting commonly causes the type of brain injury that some boxers have suffered, it just makes sense to reduce the impact of blows to the head and face.

What we do when not training or fighting can be as important as what happens in the ring. When your training increases your need for sleep and adequate nutrition also increases. Your body requires proper fuel to heal itself and build muscle as well as the time to do it during sleep. If you do not get adequate sleep and nutrition you will soon find yourself feeling tired, run-down and ultimately may find yourself sick and unable to train.

Take care of your body, and your body will take care of you!