When it comes to MMA training, most fighters think of hitting the gym, squaring up against the heavy bag, or jumping rope. However, more and more fighters can be found hitting the pool as a way to get in a great workout without the super high intensity of a round at the gym or sparring with a partner. Mixing it up and spending time in the pool may be the secret to unlocking better performance in the ring. Here’s why. Searching for the best mixed martial arts schools in Raleigh this summer? Call Gracie today.

Improved Cardiorespiratory Control
Not being able to breathe underwater forces you to control your mind and your breathing while you exert. Putting your breath control under a microscope while you push your body to perform can help increase your lung capacity substantially. Not only will your ability to measure and control your air while exerting improve your swimming performance, but it will also let you manage the lack of free breathing that happens when your opponent using a submission technique that restricts your ability to breathe. Removing the panic from an around the neck submission attempt takes your skill set to a whole new level.

Muscle Endurance
The ability to express your strength for the duration of the fight is key to beating any opponent. Being strong but lacking strength endurance will have you tapping out in the ring, wondering what happened. Improving your endurance and your ability to perform at high levels without fatigue is the key to a win in the ring. Build up your muscle endurance with some long distance swims.

Take It to the Pool
MMA fighters throughout the world use hill sprints as a way to get resistance and build speed at the same time. In the pool, every movement is a resisted effort because of the water density. Combining an aquatic workout with a dry land workout can make you break a sweat and build up your muscle endurance and breath control. Try swimming 23 meters and then hopping out of the pool for ten burpees or 20 squats before you dive back in. If you prefer to stay in the pool, opt for 25 meter sprints on the minute for ten minutes and then do ten sets of six max height jumps in the shallow end of the pool. No matter how you choose to mix it up, using the water’s resistance will help you take your training to the next level.

An Overlooked Recovery Tool
When you go hard at the gym or in your next sparring session and wake up feeling sore, head to the pool to help your recovery. Muscle soreness, joint pain, contusions, and strains can make a traditional workout difficult. The lymphatic system in your body needs to flush out the inflammation in your body and it needs movement to do so. Rather than taking the chance of injuring yourself further by performing moves that compensate for your pain, head to the pool and work your muscles without adding wear and tear to your trouble areas.

The next time you’re looking for an exceptional workout, grab a lane at the pool and focus on building muscle endurance, controlling your breathing, or using the water’s natural resistance to help you build stamina. Adding time in the water to your recovery strategy can help you manage training injuries and soreness without giving up valuable workout time. For more tips like this, call or come by Gracie Raleigh.

Best Mixed Martial Arts Schools in Raleigh

Whether you are new to MMA or are looking to take your skills to the next level, our team can help you reach your goals. See why some of Raleigh’s most successful fighters train with Gracie. We’re one of the top mixed martial arts schools in Raleigh.