It is often said that a bout is won or lost before the
fighters even enter the ring. This can certainly be the case with MMA as champions
and challengers put their body and mind through rigorous training regimes and
unforgiving mental challenges to make sure they are at their peak - before
engaging in one of the toughest sports in the world.
So what can an MMA fighter do to increase his or her chances
of having their arm held aloft on fight night? Here’s a look at some key
factors that might just be the difference between defeat and victory.
Training
MMA fighters use a combination of different training
techniques due to the diverse nature of the sport, ensuring they are ready for
anything their opponent has to throw at them. A varied approach including
wrestling, boxing, kickboxing, weight training and cardio vascular exercise is
great preparation for the battle ahead. A good technique is one thing, but you
must make sure your body is conditioned to last the duration of the fight, so
be prepared for some long days and nights in the gym.
Nutrition
Train twice a day for six days a week and you’ll start to
feel the effects, both good and bad. If you don’t eat correctly your body will
not be able to take any more punishment and you’ll end up doing more harm than
good. Eating plenty but in small quantities is the best way take on nutrition
when you are training, rather like a body builder would. It’s recommended that
six small meals a day is the perfect intake for what your body is going
through. The healthy option is always the best but cutting out carbs isn’t a
must, as it’s important that you maintain your energy levels. Many trainers promote
the idea of a “cheat meal” once a week, maybe a pizza, steak or chips, as a
reward for all your hard work – in regulation of course.
Supplements
Putting your body through, what is essentially physical
torture for up to six weeks is bound to take its toll. When you train you are
basically teaching your body to do things it couldn’t before, through pressure
and hard work. Over time, if you don’t supplement your body for what it is
losing during training, workouts will just become a waste of time. Any good MMA shop will offer a wide range of
protein supplements to ensure that your training regimes are not becoming
harmful and you can maximise your recovery period.
Equipment
A good workman should never blame his tools. But if you
don’t have the correct equipment from the start, you’ll be severely hampering
your chances when it comes to progressing as an MMA contender. There’s no point
training with old or second hand gear and then buying new kit for a big fight,
as you’ll still be getting used to it when the bout comes around. It may seem
like an expensive outlay initially but think of it as an investment for the
long term – making sure your fight gear feels
comfortable and gives you the freedom to perform to your true ability in the
octagon.