How to Find the Best Mixed Martial Arts Dojo and MMA Trainer

Finding the best mixed martial arts dojo and trainer is one of the most important steps you take in your career as an MMA fighter. It is your trainer who can help guide you in not only a career as a fighter, but that of a successful champion MMA fighter.

Instructions

    • 1

      Decide the technique you wish to focus in MMA as you try to find the best mixed martial art dojo and MMA trainer. Noted dojos are known for different aspects of MMA. For example, the famous Gracie dojos focus on Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, while Pat Miletich's famous Miletich System is a combination of karate, boxing, kickboxing, wrestling and more. (See Resources below.)

    • 2

      Go to each dojo and sit in on a class. You can learn about the dojo by watching how the class is taught, how the class members relate to their trainer and the discipline that's displayed.

    • 3

      Ask the trainer a lot of questions. Explain your goals and listen to all the trainer says. How the trainer responds to your questions is a good indication of what you can expect in a continuing relationship.

    • 4

      Learn the competition record of the dojo as you search for the best mixed martial art dojo and MMA trainer. You are looking for a dojo and trainer who has a lot of successful combatants in MMA events.

    • 5

      Speak with students of the instructor about the MMA dojo. Ask them about their goals and feelings about their MMA trainer. You'll want someone who inspires their students as well as guides them to victory in the ring.

    • 6

      Think seriously about moving to be closer to the dojo. Tim "Maine-iac" Sylvia, former UFC world heavy weight champion, moved from his native Maine to be able to train with Pat Miletich in Bettendorf, Iowa.