MMA Training

Mixed martial arts fighting (MMA) is back in a big way. With the return of American Gladiators to NBC, more and more competitors are engaging in “the ultimate fight.” MMA combines the best of many worlds – martial arts, kinesiology, combat training, and body-building. So how do famed competitors like Randy Couture gear up for their sport?

The answer is different for every athlete. There are various types of MMA, and each requires a distinct training approach. The types include Greco-Roman wrestling, Judo, Freestyle wrestling, and Russian sambo. Competitors must have the basics of wrestling along with the nuanced skills of everything from jujutsu to karate to judo, along with sparring and grappling, two hallmarks of the sport.

Another unique characteristic of MMA is its reliance on military principles of combat and stealth along with the use of the martial arts. If you do not have training in combat or any martial arts, start taking classes and learning basic skills of sports such as kung fu or karate.

Ultimate Fighting Championship’s Randy Couture is one of a growing number of competitors who utilize complex training, or circuit training, to maximize results. Randy is a Greco-Roman wrestler. In his preferred training method, you advance from one exercise to a next without any rest, regardless of whether you’re using dumbbells or machines.

Aside from strength and power, competitors also must gear up for brutal, lengthy competitions. Upper body strength is especially crucial. If you’re just starting out in this multidisciplinary sport, you must develop a workout that gives you the stamina and vitality to spar for rounds on end. Generous amounts of shrugs, presses, and rows will help get you in the shape you need to be in.

In addition to strength training, athletes must also be prepared to go the distance, literally. Stepping up cardio routines is required; whether it’s running, biking, swimming, or skiing, athletes must build up their strength in order for the endurance challenges that come with fighting. Often, sheer power is not enough to guarantee victory – the athlete must also be able to retain enough energy to sustain the fight.

Diets rich in simple and complex carbohydrates are essential to provide MMA fighters with the energy they need for the sport. It’s also a good idea to mix in healthy fats to balance the diet. Due to the weight class restrictions, fighters also must keep close measurements of their weight.

Finally, another huge and vital part of becoming a true ultimate fighter is the mindset you must assume. Athletic prowess and endurance are simply not enough. Successful fighters also have the confidence and faith in their abilities that carry them to victory. These fighters are also extremely intelligent; they watch other fights and carefully analyze styles and strategies. By culling from various sources – trainers, fellow fighters, professionals – you can analyze the value of each move and strategically and systematically determine if it is right for you. The more informed your decision, the more powerful it will be when you put it in action.