MMA

Not discounting the effectiveness of boxing, kickboxing and even karate, often seen within MMA, Muay Thai is arguably the most effective of all stand-up elemtents. Mainly due to the knees, elbows and clinch, not all taught as much within other combat sports, Muay Thai offers a complete striking game when adapted for MMA.

The stand-up element of MMA will test your cardio to the limit, especially if not executed effectively and intelligently, so, consistency in training is a must! Every fight starts on the feet, so it makes sense to invest lots of time in perfecting it.

Whether it is Thai Boxing, kickboxing or boxing, the stand up portion of an MMA fight is often the fan favourite, due, in most part to the potential for KOs. However, an intelligent approach to striking is needed, knockouts or finishes may be the golden ticket but it's easier said than done, specifically at the higher levels.

This can be anything from Judo, Sambo, Wrestling and even throws from Muay Thai. However, it's usually the freestyle or Greco-Roman wrestling styles that show the most dominance in the cage.

As important as is offence of wrestling etc, also not forgetting on how to defend all of these. An effective take-down will win lots of favour with the judges, so getting this right in attack and defence, should be near the top of your list of things to work on.

Whilst some local gyms offer 'wrestling classes' it is worth travelling outside of the county to hone this craft, as there are no qualified or high-level coaches in the region. We can teach you the basics and beyond but it is always worth investing in high-level coaching on this.

Taking time out to visit Judo only gyms or clubs is worthwhile but bear in mind the gi is used and is not as relevant to MMA.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Submission Wrestling, whether training Gi or No-Gi, compromises of ground control and submissions and is vital to being an effective MMA fighter.

If you don't get this right from the outset, you will struggle to defend or attack on the ground. At amateur level, so many fights will be won or lost on the ground, as invariably no head strikes are not always allowed.

Training in the Gi is definitely helpful but the majority of training should be without the gi. Ideally, with several sessions wearing MMA gloves, mainly without strikes to start with and then moving into striking on the ground. Also with adding in some shoot boxing. This is where boxing gloves are used with striking being safer and the grappling being much more difficult. A great way to help improve movement and control on the ground.