Why Is An MMA Workout Different Than Other Strength Training And Conditioning?

If anyone has been watching The Ultimate Fighter Season 10 – Heavyweights, it should be apparent that general strength training and conditioning does not necessarily translate into a good MMA workout. This season of the show has several former NFL players in it, in addition to amateur and professional mixed martial artists. Early on, it has become apparent that NFL conditioning does not equal MMA conditioning. This shouldn’t be surprising that the two don’t directly translate.

For example, let us take a look at the clinch. Training for MMA grappling in clinch fighting requires a high level of strength and endurance in the arms and legs. This could be compared to the type of physicality that is engaged on an offensive or defensive football line. The UFC matches are split into five-minute rounds, for either three or five rounds. A fighter must be able to pace himself when fighting. In order to gain the intensity and explosive movements they will need, the fighter must practice performing many weighted repetitions for a prolonged period of time. Football players can get away with training closer to what bodybuilders train, as their movements need to be powerful and explosive but only for five to ten seconds before they earn a rest. This is definitely not the case with an MMA fighter training an MMA workout.

It also became very apparent that cardio was an issue for many of the NFL players. As stated previously NFL players are able to operate at a high intensity for a very short period of time, often five to ten seconds. After that, they usually receive a large break that can be up to, or even more, than a minute long. With MMA fighters, they must take the punishment and deal it right back. They are constantly fighting a battle between expending as much energy as possible without completely gassing themselves and thus becoming vulnerable. This is where MMA conditioning is key.

There are similarities between the two sports though. Both sports take potentially bone-crushing hits over a long period of time. However, NFL players are protected from many of these hits by the equipment they wear. The only equipment an MMA fighter brings into the fight with them is their lightweight MMA gloves.

Throughout our site at Best MMA Workout, we will discuss how current MMA fighters train. We will discuss the different tactics and strategies they use, why they use them, and what type of application they have in MMA. We will also discuss how MMA training workouts differ from other sport workouts, such as bodybuilding. We will be discussing the different gear and equipment that can be used. And finally, we will also talk about building that warrior mindset that is critical for MMA fighters when they are training an MMA workout.

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