Training Programs for MMA Fighters

Presidential candidate John McCain said, "MMA is human cockfighting." But MMA is more than just two fighters slugging it out; it's a game of rock-paper-scissors. The top MMA champions all train and understand the importance of being a well-rounded fighter. A ju-jitsu fighter can fight, choke, even break an opponents arm, but without an understanding of boxing, he makes for a good punching bag. Fighters train in each of the main disciplines--boxing, wrestling and ju-jitsu--to gain a competitive edge over opponents.

  1. Boxing programs

    • There are two positions an MMA fighter will be in during a fight--on the ground or standing up. A boxing academy will train a fighter to defend, fight and protect himself while standing. More importantly, a boxing program will train a fighter to condition his body and his mind for the mental and physical punishment felt during a fight. Fighters looking to improve their conditioning will benefit from the physical demands of a boxing program.

    Brazilian ju-jitsu programs

    • A Brazilian ju-jitsu (BJJ) program teaches fighters how to defend themselves on the ground. A fighter will use grappling techniques to defend and escape submissions; more importantly, BJJ fighters will use their knowledge to force an opponents to submit with various body-lock techniques. BJJ programs teach proper mount positions, transitions between mounts, chokes and arm and leg locks.

    Strength and condition programs

    • MMA matches vary in time, with some lasting between 15 and 25 minutes. According to Fight Authority, "fighters need to focus on combat specific exercises, build core strength and build strength endurance." Fighters looking for conditioning programs can build and practice their own training regimen that includes weight lifting, sledge hammer circuits and endurance exercises that mimic fight scenarios.