IT'S NOT YOUR MMA COACH'S JOB TO GET YOU IN SHAPE!

What's up, everyone? Welcome to today's blog post. Let's dive into a topic that's crucial for all aspiring fighters and martial artists: It's not your MMA coach's job to get you in shape. It's your job to be in shape.

The Role of Your Coach

So, here's the deal. Your coach's primary job is to teach you how to fight. If you're coming to class, thinking you're ready to fight after a year of training, but you can't even do all the rounds at a fast pace, guess what? You're not ready to fight.

The Reality Check

Imagine this: you're in the gym, surrounded by your teammates. It's a familiar environment with no nerves, just you and your friends. Now, if you can't handle five 5-minute rounds grappling at a fast pace here, what do you think will happen in a real fight? When you're in front of a crowd, and someone's trying to hit you, knock you out, or take you down harder than you've ever experienced, the intensity and speed are on another level.

Your coach's job is to teach you techniques like throwing a jab, a cross, or defending against certain moves. Training should prepare you for high-intensity situations, but getting in shape is on you.

Use Training to Get in Shape

Many people come into the gym expecting their coach to whip them into peak physical condition. But that's not entirely accurate. Yes, training should be demanding and help build your conditioning, but you need to contribute too.

1. Regular Trainees vs. Fighters:

If you're a regular person doing two rounds and taking one off, that's fine. You're not trying to be a fighter.
Fighters, on the other hand, need to be in the best shape possible. Taking rounds off shouldn’t even be an option.

2. Consistency:

Some fighters do two rounds of grappling, sit one out, and then claim they need to improve their cardio. No, you need to stay on the mat and push through it.
Consistent effort in training translates to better performance in fights. Strength and conditioning are essential, but they shouldn't replace actual fighting practice.

3. Training Intensity:

Training needs to be intense. If you're not pushing yourself, you're not preparing for a real fight.

The Myth of Strength and Conditioning

Strength and conditioning have their place in training, but they alone won't make you fight-ready. Some fighters emphasize conditioning so much that they forget to train how they fight.

Sean Strickland’s Example

Take it from Sean Strickland, who spars every day. He's been training for over 15 years, so he can afford to focus solely on sparring because he's already built a solid foundation of techniques and conditioning.

Don't expect your MMA coach that teaches wrestling, kickboxing, jiu-jitsu, and fighting to be your strength and conditioning coach.

Instead, fighters need to:

Suck it Up: When you get tired, suck it up. Everyone gets tired; the difference is some can handle it better than others.
Balance: Find a balance where you can get your cardio and conditioning during your classes while still learning techniques.

Role of Technique vs. Cardio

Interestingly, coaches who push cardio more than technique often lack the technical skills themselves. You need a balance of both.

Drills and Practice
1. Class Structure:

Train for two hours a day, four to five days a week.
Split your time between technique drills and live practice.

2. Technique Under Fatigue:

Practice your moves while you're tired. This mimics real fight conditions where you won't have the luxury of taking breaks.
Stay on the mat and keep going, even when you're exhausted.

Real Fight Scenarios
If you're a fighter in a mixed class with regular students, you shouldn’t sit out any rounds. Use these sessions for conditioning.

Your MMA coach's job is to teach you how to fight, not to be your strength conditioning coach.

Training is about learning the correct techniques for punches, defense, escapes, and takedowns. But getting in shape happens inside and outside the gym.

Your Responsibility

Let's be clear: it's not your coach's job to get you in shape. You need to take initiative.

Extra-Curricular Conditioning

Running: Incorporate running into your routine.
Bodyweight Exercises: Push-ups, pull-ups, and natural body lifts are great for building strength and endurance.
Consistency in Sparring: Dedicate yourself to sparring consistently for extended periods. Push through ten 5-minute rounds straight to build your cardio.

Success Recipe

Your success as a fighter depends on a few key elements:

1. Training Consistency: Regular, intense sessions are crucial.
2. Technical Proficiency: Ensure your coach has solid techniques to teach.
3. Self-Motivation: Push yourself to keep going, even when it's tough.
4. Extracurricular Activities: Complement your in-gym training with additional conditioning exercises.

A Balanced Approach

A good training regimen includes balance:

Technique vs. Cardio: Focus on both to be well-rounded.
In-Class and Out-of-Class Training: Combine class drills with outside conditioning.
Intensity: Maintain high intensity throughout your training sessions.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right gym and coach is essential. If you're new to martial arts and looking for guidance, check out my eBook, "Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts Gym and Instructor," available on Amazon for just $4.99.

Stay dedicated, focused, and always aim to be in the best shape of your life. Remember, it's your job to get in shape, and your coach will handle the rest by teaching you how to fight effectively.

If you have any topics or subjects you'd like me to discuss, drop a comment or send a message. Let's continue this journey to become the best fighters we can be!

 Till next time, train hard and stay fit!