Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a dynamic and demanding sport that has been gaining popularity for years. Fighters such as Alexander Volkanovski, Israel Adesanya, Islam Makchaev, and Jon “Bones” Jones have risen as MMA’s biggest stars. With fame and fortune, MMA fighters are some of the most popular athletes globally. This is the reason why many people are training to become accomplished MMA fighters.
Becoming an excellent MMA fighter requires a combination of dedication, discipline, and a well-rounded skill set. Today, we will delve into the key components that make an aspiring fighter stand out in the world of MMA. From the disciplines one should have when they train to their training routines, health, and mentality, we'll explore what it takes to excel in this challenging sport.
Disciplines to Train In
MMA is a hybrid sport that combines various martial arts disciplines, making it essential for aspiring fighters to train in multiple areas. The champions mentioned above are from the UFC, the leading MMA organization in the world. These champions easily win fights and ufc bets made on them by bettors by displaying their skills from many fighting disciplines. Here are the fundamental disciplines to focus on:
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): BJJ provides a solid foundation for ground control and submissions. Learning BJJ techniques and submissions is crucial for survival on the ground, which often plays a decisive role in MMA fights.
In BJJ, being technical is more advantageous than going with brute strength. With locks such as armbars, guillotine chokes, and knee locks, fighters can win fights without even throwing a kick or punch. It’s also worth noting that BJJ not only emphasizes offense(with the use of submissions) but also utilizes defensive maneuvers that prevent these submissions and allow for more favorable positions while on the ground.
Muay Thai: Muay Thai, also known as the “Art of Eight Limbs,” is a fighting style that emphasizes powerful kicks, elbows, knees, and clinch work. It's essential for developing strong stand-up skills and striking accuracy.
Muay Thai fighters are known to be precise, agile, and durable fighters. This is the reason why Muay Thai fighters’ records commonly have over 100 fights and usually have KO wins. Having a good Muay Thai game is essential if you want to be a great MMA fighter.
Wrestling: Wrestling is vital for takedowns and controlling your opponent's position. Wrestlers often excel at dictating the pace of a fight and avoiding unfavorable positions. Along with BJJ, wrestling is a core discipline that every aspiring MMA fighter should develop.
Boxing: Boxing is essential for developing your punching and defensive skills. MMA fighters with good boxing techniques can dominate their opponents in the stand-up exchanges. Some see boxing as a one-dimensional discipline, often focusing on throwing punches. However, footwork and excellent head movement are equally important skills to develop in this sport. An MMA fighter with excellent boxing skills is a difficult and dangerous opponent to face.
Training and Routines
An aspiring fighter's training regimen should be well-structured and balanced to incorporate the necessary disciplines:
Technical Drills: Spend significant time on technical drills specific to each discipline. This includes sparring, grappling, striking drills, and cage work.
Strength and Conditioning: Incorporate strength training, agility drills, and aerobic conditioning into your routine. A strong and conditioned body is essential for peak performance.
Sparring: Regular sparring sessions with training partners of varying skill levels help sharpen your skills and improve your fight IQ.
Rest and Recovery: Rest is as crucial as training. Adequate sleep, nutrition, and recovery techniques like ice baths and massages are essential for optimal performance.
Health
MMA is a physically demanding sport, and maintaining good health is crucial:
Diet: Fuel your body with a balanced diet that supports your training goals. Consult with a nutritionist or dietitian to ensure you're getting the right nutrients.
Weight Management: Many MMA fighters compete in specific weight classes, so managing your weight is vital. Work with a nutritionist or a coach to create a healthy weight-cutting plan.
Injury Prevention: Injuries are common in MMA. Focus on injury prevention through proper warm-ups, cooldowns, and recovery techniques.
Mentality
The mental aspect of MMA is often underestimated but is just as important as physical training:
Mental Toughness: Develop mental resilience to handle the pressure, stress, and setbacks that come with MMA. Visualization techniques and sports psychology can be beneficial.
Discipline: MMA requires unwavering discipline. Stay dedicated to your training, diet, and lifestyle choices.
Adaptability: MMA is unpredictable, and the ability to adapt during a fight is crucial. Stay open to learning and evolving your skills.
Confidence: Believe in your abilities. Confidence can be the difference between success and failure in the cage.
Conclusion
Becoming an excellent MMA fighter is a journey that demands a holistic approach. Training in various disciplines, maintaining your health, adhering to a disciplined routine, and developing a strong mindset are all integral components.
Remember that success in MMA is not achieved overnight; it requires continuous dedication and a willingness to learn and improve. Whether you're just starting or have been in the sport for a while, embracing these principles will set you on the path to becoming an outstanding MMA fighter.
