MUST WATCH FOR ASPIRING UFC FIGHTERS

The Hard Truth About Breaking Bad Technique in Combat Sports

Hey everyone! Today, I want to dive into something that really hits home for many athletes, especially those striving to compete at the highest levels, like the UFC. We're talking about bad technique—why it's so stubbornly hard to break and the impact it can have on your career.

The Challenge of Bad Technique

Many of us start our journeys in combat sports with coaches who might not focus on the right techniques. And while some manage to change paths successfully, the road can be long and arduous. Switching coaches is often a must for those who have progressed far in their careers because poor technique can be an immense hurdle to overcome.

Why Do Techniques Matter So Much?

The technique taught in most gyms often doesn't align with what's required to excel at the UFC level. No disrespect to all coaches out there, but some of them really don't serve their students well with the techniques they're teaching. Breaking bad habits is excruciatingly difficult, especially when it comes to striking.

It may take you double the time to fix it as it took you to develop it.

Imagine training at a mediocre gym for three years, where you unknowingly pick up all sorts of bad habits. Transitioning to a superior gym won't instantly solve these problems. In fact, undoing such ingrained habits might take twice as long as it took to develop them. That’s a lot of time spent just to get back to square one.

Striking Specifics

In disciplines like boxing, small errors like dropping your hand while jabbing can become ingrained if left uncorrected for too long. I personally experienced this. During my initial years at a boxing gym, I trained hard but wasn't taught the importance of defense.

For the first ten fights in the UFC, my unpolished technique didn't cost me much; I took minimal damage. But stepping into the ring with top ten fighters was like entering a new league altogether. Technical flaws became glaringly apparent, and I paid the price.

Repetition: The Double-Edged Sword

Striking disciplines, be it boxing or MMA, involve countless repetitions.

• In a three-minute round, you might throw upwards of 100 jabs.
  
• Compare this to grappling, where the number of moves executed in the same time frame is significantly less.

This sheer number of repetitions means any flaws become deeply ingrained, making them harder to correct later. This is what makes striking unique—both a boon and a bane. It’s a double-edged sword where more reps can equal more technical faults if not done correctly.

Technique in Other Disciplines

While the primary focus here is on striking, the principle applies across the board—whether it’s wrestling, BJJ, or any other combat sport. Incorrect grip positions in grappling, for example, if drilled the wrong way, can take ages to rectify.

The McDojo Phenomenon

A significant problem is the prevalence of what some call "McDojos"—gyms that teach technique inadequately for high-level competition such as the UFC, though they might be fine for casual martial arts enthusiasts. The techniques might work in BJJ or for self-defense but falter in professional MMA settings.

Low Percentage Techniques

Many Jiu-Jitsu gyms in the US, while excellent for self-defense, often teach techniques that are low in percentage when applied in MMA. Moves like constant leg locks can be quite risky, leaving you vulnerable to counter-attacks like getting punched or knocked out.

In the fight world, understanding and separating high-percentage techniques from less successful ones is key. Coaches need to know and communicate the risks associated with each move.

Making the Right Choice for Your Career

If you dream of fighting at a high level, you need the right foundation. It’s critical to be discerning about the gyms and coaches you choose. Loyalty is commendable, but it doesn't outweigh the importance of receiving proper training. If your current setup isn't providing it, it's time to move on.

Talk to Experienced Fighters

One practical piece of advice is to consult with older, experienced fighters. These individuals often carry the wisdom of hindsight, having regretted staying too long with certain coaches. They understand the necessity of receiving instruction that prepares you for higher stakes.

The Coach vs. Fighter Dynamic

Lastly, always remember:

It's always the fighter more than the coach.

This well-known saying speaks to the notion that great fighters can emerge despite their coaches. However, having a coach who sharpens your technique can dramatically alter your trajectory and make your journey smoother.

Conclusion

Bad technique is a significant barrier in combat sports that can cost athletes years of additional training. Whether you're just starting out or already on the road to becoming a professional fighter, prioritizing excellent coaching and correct technique is essential.

Stay sharp, seek out quality instruction, and don't be afraid to make changes for the betterment of your career. The journey may be difficult, but with dedication and the right guidance, you can overcome these challenges and elevate your performance to new heights.