The popularity of mixed martial arts or MMA has increased exponentially over the last decade. More and more people are interested in training for this tough and demanding sport. If you have never trained in a martial art or been a boxer, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. One of the most crucial aspects of beginning MMA training is to find a reputable gym to train at. At Gracie Raleigh, we know you have a lot of choices when it comes to where you train for martial arts. Our team is proud to offer our students an environment where training, learning, and growing your skills is a positive and empowering experience.
One of the core components of MMA, and one of the first skills you will learn as you begin to train in MMA, is striking. In MMA, striking incorporates a variety of elements from a number of different disciplines. Kicks, punches, and knee and elbow strikes are all permitted in MMA. Understanding how to deliver a strike on your opponent is fundamental. It is also crucial that you know how to defend yourself from these attacks.
Submissions are another vital part of the MMA fighting style. These techniques are necessary to get your opponent to submit to you and admit defeat. These moves are highly technical and are heavily influenced by Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Joint locks and chokes are designed to inflict pain on your opponent and cause them to tap out of the match.
To be effective at this next MMA core move, you need to study how to use it to your advantage, the different styles, and how it works. We’re talking about the on the mat ground and pound art of grappling. While strength does help, knowing and understanding the technique behind these moves is the secret to victory in the ring.
Before you step on to the mat to learn the basics of MMA, you’ll need to ensure that you have the proper protective gear in place.
Rash guards act as a barrier between you and the mat and you and your opponent. Mat burns are extremely common in martial arts. A rash guard can also protect you from skin infections like ringworm, which are common in martial arts gyms. Good quality rash guards are often lined with fabrics that have anti-microbial properties to prevent the spread of bacteria from one person to another.
MMA is a full contact sport. A mouth guard is essential, especially if you are planning to spar. Not only do these guards protect your teeth, but they can also protect your jaw and keep your mouth from snapping shut, which can help prevent a concussion. Boil and bite mouth guards are the most readily available type and are used by many MMA fighters. The drawback to boil and bite guards is that they do not fit as well as custom mouth guards. To obtain a custom fit mouth guard, you will need to make an appointment with your dental provider.
Are you ready to get started with your MMA training? Call or come by the Gracie Raleigh gym today and meet with our expert team. We’d love to show you our facilities and learn more about your MMA training goals. New students always get free classes and now is the best time to begin a new martial art!
Join us next time for more information on how to get into MMA as a beginner.