The 5 Most Important Abilities Every MMA Fighter Needs
What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about MMA? If you are like most people, chances are you are already smitten by the glamorous lifestyle of popular MMA fighters, such as Conor McGregor.
Most people don’t understand that the on-screen portrayal of MMA fighters doesn’t showcase their absolute reality. Behind the glitz and fame, they have to train for years without focusing on financial gains.
From diet and training to proper equipment, an MMA fighter’s life can be a constant struggle. To begin with, they need to be adept in different forms of martial arts, including Muay Thai, taekwondo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. They have to master other techniques like boxing and wrestling as well.
But training in different martial arts and fighting styles doesn’t define an MMA fighter’s skill set. The top MMA champions share a few common traits that make them stand out from the crowd. Whether you aspire to play for the UFC or simply want to train for self-defense, you must have a deep understanding of the attributes that define an MMA fighter.
This blog will outline a few essential qualities that every MMA fighter needs to learn before they are ready to hit the ring.
Excellent Reaction Time
Landing a few strong kicks and punches isn’t enough to take your opponent down. The best MMA fighters are known for their agility and speed. You must be an expert in intercepting and dodging your opponent’s blows.
Also, you should have the ability to change directions and respond to your opponent in a fraction of seconds. Otherwise, even the most powerful fighting skills won’t get you to the top.
That emphasizes the importance of reaction time training for MMA fighters. Once you have a good grip on different martial arts, you need to work on enhancing your reflexes.
It is a good idea to practice various drills, such as tossing or drop-and-catch, with a reaction ball to improve your speed. The unpredictability of a reaction ball makes it ideal for reaction time training for MMA fighters.
Also, you have to invest time in plyometric exercises, such as single-arm throws, jump squats, and high hops. Make sure your training regimen includes at least two Plyo sessions every week.
Endurance and Strength
Every MMA fighter understands the importance of physical strength and toughness. Keep in mind that even before you are in your first fight, the intense training sessions will drain your body of every ounce of energy. And once you make it to the ring, you’ll have to deal with punches and blows from athletic opponents.
Your body must be strong enough to deal with the physical abuse of training sessions and actual fights. Otherwise, you can’t power through the sore and aching muscles after a few weeks of training.
It is equally important for MMA fighters to increase their endurance. You must have the power to constantly land heavy punches and kicks for five minutes. Without endurance, you could end up exhausting all your body before the first round is over.
That is why you need power endurance training sessions to help your body perform at maximum capacity, even when you are exhausted. Also, it is a good idea to go on long runs and hikes to skyrocket your aerobic endurance.
Unwavering Discipline
This one is a no-brainer. If you want to excel in any sport, discipline is your biggest ally. It is all the more important in an intense and demanding sport, like MMA.
Discipline is what is going to motivate you to follow your diet plan and rigorous training schedule. Also, it will keep you focused on your goal of fighting at a professional level.
A disciplined lifestyle will prepare you for any challenges that come your way on the journey of MMA training. Also, you will learn to set the right priorities and put less important things on hold until you have achieved your goals.
The most effective way of instilling discipline in your life is to join an MMA gym. A professional instructor who understands your goals is the best driving force you will find. They can help keep you on the right track and follow through with your daily routine.
Hand-Eye Coordination
It is one thing to be strong and swift. But even the strongest individuals will fail to excel in MMA if they ignore the importance of coordination. In addition to a fast reaction time, MMA fighters focus on improving their hand-eye coordination.
Proper hand-eye coordination plays a key role in enhancing your agility and speed. Also, it is important to ensure your safety during a fight.
The key is to be aware of every muscle in your body and the right way to use it. It will help your body produce quick, explosive, and coordinated movements with precision. This, in turn, will ensure that every punch lands on your opponent at the right time.
If you are already undergoing reaction time training, chances are your coordination has improved. You can take things up a notch by learning additional skills, such as juggling and rope jumping. Training with a double-ended bag is also a good idea.
Fearlessness and Resilience
What do an MMA champion and a lion have in common? Both of them have eliminated the last bit of fear from their minds.
Here is the thing – you can’t train to be an MMA fighter while being scared of what will happen during a fight. Otherwise, your fear will eat away at you before an opponent makes their first move.
Apart from being fearless, you should also focus on improving your mental strength and becoming more resilient. Resilience is the quality that will help you push through every adversity and bounce back like a champion.
Read about the world’s greatest boxers, wrestlers and MMA fighters to discover how they have overcome their fears. Also, build a support network that will encourage you to keep fighting despite the pain and exhaustion.
In Conclusion
Training to become an MMA fighter is an emotionally and physically draining experience. Discipline and resilience are crucial for helping you deal with physical pain and abuse. Also, it would be best if you improve your reaction time and hand-eye coordination. Make sure you focus on your mental health and wellbeing too.
