Special to Chicago’s MMA
Mixed Martial Arts is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world today. If you are a true MMA enthusiast, you shouldn’t let your environment define your workout routine. No matter where you are or the tools you have, you can always exercise for strength, endurance, and skills.
Whether you are training to be a professional MMA fighter or doing it for fun, here are tips to help you work out like a pro.
1) Train for Flexibility
Although most MMA artists focus more on building strength, it’s essential to train for flexibility.
Always stretch before and after exercising, which keeps your body flexible and improves your fighting skills.
It also helps you avoid injuries that arise from sudden stretching of muscles.
2) Eat Right
According to MartialArtsVideos.com, MMA training requires a lot of energy. That means you have to eat the right food to condition your body for intense training.
Your diet should contain high levels of healthy fat, carbohydrates, and protein. Some of the foods to take include:
- Avocados
- Nuts
- Oils
- Fish
- Eggs
- Turkey
- Legumes
Ensure you take your meal religiously to give your body enough strength.
3) Maintain Workout Discipline
Intense training can take a toll on your body. You might skip training sessions some days or even fake injuries to give your body a rest. This will, however, reduce your fitness level and eventually lead to injuries or loss during fights.
If you feel like your body needs some rest, talk to your trainer about it. They will help you develop a healthy but productive workout routine that doesn’t strain your body.
In case you are training for an upcoming fight, never lie to your trainer about your fitness level. It’s advisable to develop slowly over time until you are in the right condition to fight.
4) Don’t Bulk up Too Much
As much as gaining weight and having a bigger body might seem like a sign of building strength, it’s not ideal for MMA fighters. Spend more time doing strength and stability exercises rather than lifting weights in the gym.
Focus on exercises such as plank rolls, leg raises, sit-ups, and other core exercises. Remember, bulking up reduces your flexibility, which is a significant disadvantage in Martial Arts.
5) Have the Right Mentors
The easiest way to work your way up as an MMA beginner is by training with the right people. Ensure you go to a place that has many MMA fighters attending the classes.
You also need the right coach to show you the ropes. Not all gym trainers qualify for MMA coaching. It’s essential to check your coach’s portfolio before joining their gym.
6) Workout Every Muscle
As an MMA fighter, your body needs to handle any volume thrown your way. Working on improving skills and strength can help you avoid injuries.
If you spend much time working your arms, try to exercise your legs and other muscles. Do up to five minutes of each exercise to work every muscle in your body.
One of the exercises that work most parts of your body is swimming, which is a helpful exercise that won’t damage your muscles.
7) Improve Your Endurance
Endurance is among the most critical skills in MMA. You need to sustain power in all the rounds to have the upper hand over your competitor.
Perform explosive exercises for about half an hour using a moderate load. Rest for about 30 seconds between rounds and repeat five times. You should train to kick or punch hard repeatedly for about 3-5 minutes.
Bottom Line
A great workout strategy is essential whenever you want to better your skills as an MMA artist. Eat well, have the right discipline, and work every muscle to build strength and endurance.
