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<h3>Introduction</h3><p>In today's digital age, people of all professions are leveraging social media to grow their audience, brand themselves, and connect with fans or clients. However, one sector that often flies under the radar when it comes to social media presence is the world of fighters – boxers, mixed martial artists, and other combat athletes. Engaging with social media isn't just optional for them; it’s essential. Let’s dive into why fighters need to nurture their social media presence and how it can help them in their careers.</p><h3>The Power of Social Media for Fighters</h3><p>Fighters are in a unique position where their careers depend not only on their physical abilities but also on their visibility and marketability. Here's why social media is a game changer for them:</p><p><strong>Increased Visibility and Reach</strong></p><p>Fighters used to be dependent solely on promoters and managers to gain visibility. With social media, they can now reach a global audience with just a few clicks.</p><p><strong>Pro Tip</strong>: Consistently posting training videos, behind-the-scenes peeks, and personal stories can significantly broaden a fighter's audience.</p><p><strong>Direct Fan Engagement</strong></p><p>Unlike traditional media, social media allows fighters to interact directly with their fans. This builds a more robust and personal connection, fostering loyalty and support.</p><blockquote><p><em>Have a good day, guys.</em></p><p><br></p></blockquote><p>Fighters should always maintain a warm, approachable tone to maximize fan engagement.</p><p><strong>Sponsorship Opportunities</strong><br></p><p>Brands are always looking for influencers to promote their products. Fighters with a strong social media presence can attract lucrative sponsorship deals, which can sometimes be more profitable than their fight purses.</p><p><strong>Building a Personal Brand</strong><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>Social media empowers fighters to shape their own stories and create a personal brand. They can showcase aspects of their life outside the ring, which makes them more relatable and increases their appeal.</p><h3>How Fighters Can Leverage Social Media</h3><p>Engaging effectively on social media doesn't happen overnight. Here are some strategies fighters can use to grow their social media presence:</p><p><strong>Consistent Posting</strong><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>Being active on social media tells your audience that you are engaged and invested in your community. Consistent posting also helps with visibility as the algorithms tend to favor active accounts.</p><p><strong>Pro Tip</strong>: Create a content calendar to ensure that you are posting regularly without having to scramble for content at the last minute.</p><p><strong>Quality Content</strong><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>Quality over quantity is a valuable principle when it comes to social media. High-resolution images, well-produced videos, and meaningful captions can make a significant difference.</p><p><strong>Engaging with Fans</strong><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>Replying to comments, participating in online discussions, and even doing live Q&amp;A sessions can greatly enhance a fighter’s connection with their audience.</p><p><strong>Collaborate with Influencers and Other Fighters</strong><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>Collaboration is key in the digital world. Partnering with influencers or other fighters can introduce you to a broader audience and add variety to your content.</p><p><strong>Utilizing Different Platforms</strong><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>Different social media platforms have different strengths. Fighters should use a mix of platforms like Instagram for photos, Twitter for quick updates, and YouTube for longer videos to cover all bases.</p><h3>Challenges and Pitfalls</h3><p>While social media offers numerous advantages, it also has its challenges. Fighters need to be mindful of:</p><p><strong>Privacy Concerns</strong><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>Sharing too much personal information can be risky. It's essential to find a balance between being relatable and oversharing.</p><p><strong>Negative Comments and Trolls</strong><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>The internet can be a harsh place. Learning to handle criticism and ignore trolls is crucial for mental well-being.</p><p><strong>Time Management</strong><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p>Managing social media can be time-consuming. Fighters need to ensure that it doesn't take away from their training and recovery.</p><p><strong>Pro Tip</strong>: Using social media management tools can help streamline the process and make it less overwhelming.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>In summary, the importance of social media for fighters cannot be overstated. It's a powerful tool that can enhance their careers, increase their earnings, and build a global fanbase. By being strategic and mindful, fighters can harness the power of social media to elevate their game both inside and outside the ring.</p><figure id="figure-09hthhjexfdlwmn7apb"><iframe id="09hthhjexfdlwmn7apb" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hDp6iFsMAH4" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/hDp6iFsMAH4?si=1gQMKhV6c7VmZxY2" data-corners="default" data-fullWidth="false"></iframe></figure>

WHY FIGHTERS HAVE TO GROW THEIR SOCIAL MEDIA! 🥊🥋

Gloves for MMA hang on nail on a black background.

<h3>Introduction</h3><p>Fighting with different gloves can drastically change the dynamics of a match, whether you're in the boxing ring or the MMA cage. The choice between big gloves and little gloves goes beyond mere preference; it fundamentally alters fighting strategies, defensive capabilities, and even the psychology of fighters. In this blog post, we will delve deep into these differences and explore why they matter.</p><h3><strong>The Basics: Understanding Glove Types</strong></h3><h3>Boxing Gloves 🥊</h3><p>Boxing gloves are designed primarily for punching. They are padded to protect both the hands of the boxer and the opponent’s face. The larger surface area helps distribute the impact more evenly.</p><p><strong>Weight</strong>: Typically ranges from 8oz to 16oz<br><strong>Purpose</strong>: Primarily punching and defense<br><strong>Design</strong>: Rounded and filled with padding</p><h3>MMA Gloves 🥋</h3><p>MMA gloves, on the other hand, are smaller and less padded. They are designed not only for striking but also for grappling. The open-finger design allows for better grip and versatility in mixed martial arts.</p><p><strong>Weight</strong>: Generally around 4oz to 6oz<br><strong>Purpose</strong>: Striking, grappling, and clinching<br><strong>Design</strong>: Open-finger for flexibility</p><figure id="figure-vi8bbb3eq3lwld2gg3"><img id="vi8bbb3eq3lwld2gg3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/dZyOMaUzqaMlUeDsyedVs2HgRA7897KQZNEaFJciFmUb7UREPTGJu2UOXI3Wk6Ei.png" alt="Union Station under restoration in the 1980s" title="Union Station under restoration in the 1980s" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/dZyOMaUzqaMlUeDsyedVs2HgRA7897KQZNEaFJciFmUb7UREPTGJu2UOXI3Wk6Ei.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3><strong>Impact on Fighting Techniques</strong></h3><h3>Punching Power</h3><p><strong>Boxing Gloves</strong>: Boxing gloves diffuse the force over a larger area, which can reduce the immediate damage from punches. However, this allows for more rapid and multiple strikes.</p><p><strong>MMA Gloves</strong>: MMA gloves concentrate force in a smaller area, making each punch potentially more damaging. This can lead to quicker knockouts but requires precision.</p><h3>Defense and Blocking</h3><p><strong>Boxing Gloves</strong>: The larger size and padding of boxing gloves provide more surface area for blocking punches, creating a thicker barrier between the face and the incoming fist.</p><p><strong>MMA Gloves</strong>: With MMA gloves, the smaller surface area makes blocking less effective. Fighters often rely more on head movement and dodging rather than just using their hands for defense.</p><blockquote><p><em>Understanding the difference in blocking with boxing gloves versus MMA gloves can be the deciding factor in a fight.</em></p></blockquote><h3>Grappling and Clinching</h3><p><strong>Boxing Gloves</strong>: Boxing gloves are not designed for grappling. The large, padded exterior makes it difficult to grab an opponent, so clinching is typically used to stall or initiate breaks.</p><p><strong>MMA Gloves</strong>: The open-finger design allows fighters to easily switch between striking and grappling. This versatility is crucial in MMA, where ground fighting and submission holds are a significant part of the sport.</p><figure id="figure-4s3jhkafglwld39uc"><img id="4s3jhkafglwld39uc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30GicpBGsZfIFiMVpftmX2Lkh9teCslMfeKlllRp74hPSoq6kWikGpkSnwe1iayD.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30GicpBGsZfIFiMVpftmX2Lkh9teCslMfeKlllRp74hPSoq6kWikGpkSnwe1iayD.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3><strong>Psychological Effects</strong></h3><h3>Confidence and Aggression</h3><p>The type of gloves can also affect a fighter's mental game. With the larger protection of boxing gloves, fighters may be more confident to engage in close quarters. MMA gloves, with their minimal padding, require fighters to be more cautious and strategic. This difference can often be seen in the pacing and intent of fighters in the ring or cage.</p><h3>Training Adaptations</h3><p>Training for fights with different gloves requires tailored approaches. Boxers focus on endurance, technique, and speed, while MMA fighters must balance striking power with grappling proficiency. This integral difference affects not only fight strategies but also overall conditioning and skill development.</p><blockquote><p><em>Your training should mimic the real fight conditions as closely as possible. If you're training for an MMA fight, practicing with boxing gloves isn't going to cut it.</em></p></blockquote><h3><strong>Safety Considerations</strong></h3><h3>Risk of Injury</h3><p><strong>Boxing Gloves</strong>: The extra padding in boxing gloves reduces the impact on hands and wrists but can lead to prolonged beatings, increasing the risk of long-term brain injuries.</p><p><strong>MMA Gloves</strong>: While MMA gloves offer less hand and wrist protection, the fights tend to end quicker, which some argue might reduce the long-term brain injury risk. However, the immediate risk of cuts and acute injuries is higher.</p><h3>Padding and Protection</h3><p>It's crucial to understand the type of padding used in different gloves. Boxing gloves often have layers of foam and gel, designed to absorb shock. MMA gloves typically feature less padding, providing just enough protection to the knuckles while maintaining the flexibility needed for grappling.</p><figure id="figure-sql1mr3kqglwld461k"><img id="sql1mr3kqglwld461k" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/202dGaFxATo7Ww8ODptB4WuoWeSe5ho6qkapB2iBQftobsspmcXxRC3lvRPSex53.png" alt="a pair of scissors sitting on top of a piece of paper" title="a pair of scissors sitting on top of a piece of paper" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/202dGaFxATo7Ww8ODptB4WuoWeSe5ho6qkapB2iBQftobsspmcXxRC3lvRPSex53.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The choice between big gloves and little gloves is more than a matter of style—it's a strategic decision that affects every aspect of a fight. From punching power and defense techniques to psychological impacts and safety considerations, understanding these differences can make or break a fighter's game plan.</p><p>So, next time you're gearing up for a match, remember: the gloves you choose are as important as the techniques you use. Choose wisely, train accordingly, and always stay prepared for the game-changing dynamics of your chosen gloves.</p><p>Would you like to dive deeper into the technical aspects of fighting gloves or hear from professional fighters? Let us know in the comments below!</p><figure id="figure-am9emcj6dlwlcl55d"><iframe id="am9emcj6dlwlcl55d" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h-UtS3cwhBg" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/h-UtS3cwhBg?si=JWhUCMHYgAPiBgeh" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h-UtS3cwhBg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

New Big Gloves vs Little Gloves: Why Fighting with Different Gloves is a Game Changer! 🥊🥋

HOW TO DEAL WITH BEING NERVOUS BEFORE FIGHTS! 🥊🥋

<p>Okay, so I wanted to address a topic that has been buzzing around the MMA and kickboxing communities lately—hard sparring vs. light sparring. I’ve been asked about this quite a bit, so let’s dive into it.</p><h3>The Debate: Hard Sparring vs. Light Sparring</h3><p>It seems like many people in the MMA community, and even to some extent in the kickboxing community, have differing opinions on whether you should be sparring lightly or going full throttle. However, you don't see this debate in the boxing community. Most boxers believe that the only way to spar effectively is by going hard.</p><p><strong>Experiences Across the Globe</strong></p><p>From my experience traveling the world and visiting amazing boxing gyms, training in Thailand five times, and spending a month in Holland with the DK kickboxers in 2014, I’ve observed different styles of fighting, coaching, and sparring.</p><h3>The Need for a Balanced Approach</h3><p>From my observations, I think that you need a combination of both hard and light sparring. It’s that simple. Let me explain why.</p><p><span data-mce-bogus="1" data-mce-type="format-caret"><strong>Hard Sparring: The Benefits</strong></span></p><p>I’m still a big believer in hard sparring, without a doubt. Here are some reasons why:</p><p><strong>Realism</strong>: Hard sparring simulates the intensity and pace of a real fight.<br><strong>Mental Toughness</strong>: It helps in building mental resilience and toughness, something you can't gain from light sparring alone.<br><strong>Conditioning</strong>: It conditions your body to take hits and bounce back effectively.</p><p><strong>Light Sparring: The Benefits</strong></p><p>On the flip side, light sparring has its own set of advantages:</p><p><strong>Precision and Accuracy</strong>: It allows you to focus on perfecting your shots and maintaining accuracy. For instance, you can ensure you’re not injuring yourself by kicking someone’s knee or elbow.<br><strong>Control</strong>: Light sparring helps you learn control so that during a real fight, you can land precise and effective strikes without wild swings.</p><figure id="figure-9zmk8uj79plwjevb9c"><img id="9zmk8uj79plwjevb9c" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/6MzdSh2jUGXAepT62qCVAjq4py8IxzhRBLwXbTaB2bdeB0hUQnsYX2Y24RJzVJbh.png" alt="man in brown and black robe painting" title="man in brown and black robe painting" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h3>Suggested Sparring Routine</h3><p>So what’s the ideal sparring routine? Here's what I advocate:</p><p><strong>Weekly Schedule</strong><br><strong>Hard Sparring</strong>: Once a week, go hard. Give it your all.<br><strong>Light Sparring</strong>: Two to three times a week, focus on light sparring to improve your techniques without the high risk of injury.</p><p><br><strong>Training Consistency</strong><br><strong>Repetitions</strong>: Thousands of reps on specific techniques are critical, whether it’s hitting a bag, partner drills, pad work, or shadowboxing. This means you should only spar two or three times a week to free up time for these reps.<br><strong>Fight Preparation</strong>: If you have an MMA fight coming up in two months, it’s essential to incorporate hard sparring into your routine at least once a week.</p><h3>Headgear and Safety Measures</h3><p>When engaging in hard sparring, wearing headgear is crucial:</p><p><strong>Safety from Cuts</strong>: It prevents cuts, especially because head clashes are common during intense sparring sessions.<br><strong>Absorbing Impact</strong>: Though headgear might make you take more shots, it also helps absorb some of the impacts, making it safer overall.</p><h3>Sparring Duration</h3><p>If you’re preparing for a fight:</p><p><strong>Round Duration</strong>: Mimic the fight environment by sparring for five, five-minute rounds if it's an MMA fight. Top-level UFC guys often spar for one more round than they need to be prepared for.<br><strong>Intensity</strong>: Even when going light, maintain a 60-70% intensity level. This ensures you’re honing your skills without causing unnecessary damage to yourself or your sparring partner.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>In the end, both hard and light sparring have their places in a well-rounded training regimen. Mixing both types of sparring based on your needs and fight schedule will prepare you most effectively for real-life scenarios.</p><blockquote><p><em>A balanced sparring regimen of both hard and light rounds ensures comprehensive preparation for any fight.</em></p></blockquote><p><br></p><p>To recap:</p><p><strong>Hard Sparring</strong>: Once a week, go 100%.<br><strong>Light Sparring</strong>: Twice a week, go 60-70%.<br><strong>Safety Gear</strong>: Always use headgear during hard sparring.</p><p>By incorporating both types of sparring into your training, you’ll be better equipped, more precise, and mentally tougher. So, should you spar hard? The answer is yes, but in balance with light sparring.</p><p>Remember, it's all about finding the right balance and ensuring you’re getting the most out of your training while minimizing the risk of injury. Stay safe and train hard!</p><figure id="figure-knpwre7dpvlwjeum4q"><iframe id="knpwre7dpvlwjeum4q" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rZ_CILBUxPQ" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/rZ_CILBUxPQ?si=UPH4Te1UyeNBcjje" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rZ_CILBUxPQ" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

SHOULD YOU SPAR HARD!?? 🥊🥋

<p>What's up, guys? Today, I want to dive into a topic I see often overlooked in the martial arts community. Many fighters think that just because they know how to do a technique, they don't need to drill it. But here's the truth: You need to drill your moves—no exceptions.</p><h3>The Importance of Repetition</h3><p>Floyd Mayweather has been boxing for 40 years and is one of the greatest of all time. Despite his immense skill, he still throws a jab at every practice. This concept isn't just for boxing; it spans all aspects of martial arts, whether it's grappling or striking. There are generally more moves in jiu-jitsu than in striking since most schools stick to a single style, like boxing or Muay Thai.</p><p>I've trained in various styles, including karate and taekwondo. But regardless of the form, you're bound to face more techniques on the ground than on your feet. In most gyms, grappling is integral to training. Yet, many fighters believe that knowing how to execute a technique like the butterfly sweep means they don't need to practice it.</p><blockquote><p><em>You can know how to do a million moves in a row, but martial arts is fundamentally about timing.</em></p></blockquote><h3>Why Drilling Matters</h3><p>Timing is essential in martial arts, and without consistent reps, you'll lack the necessary timing and muscle memory. You don't want to be in a fight, racking your brain about the next move. Your body should go autopilot, executing the technique without conscious thought. So, make sure you're drilling the techniques you learn regularly.</p><p>Some fighters fall into the delusion that once they know how to do something, they don't have to practice it anymore. But if your timing is off, you won't hit the move correctly. If you're exhausted and haven't done enough reps for your body to act on autopilot, the move will be hard to execute.</p><figure id="figure-8cplg4hutllwj9s9gl"><img id="8cplg4hutllwj9s9gl" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32yjdy8F7gzUyR4BVut4njwZG6RzRuyFUdpkdcME2bJSj1YtStzcBuFkLWRz1bvQ.png" alt="three concrete statues" title="three concrete statues" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32yjdy8F7gzUyR4BVut4njwZG6RzRuyFUdpkdcME2bJSj1YtStzcBuFkLWRz1bvQ.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>The Reality of High-Level Martial Arts</h3><p><strong>Do the reps.</strong> It’s that simple. It all circles back to drilling. High-level martial artists—UFC fighters—spend countless hours drilling. It's not always about strenuous, hard drills. Sometimes, it's slow, broken-down technique work, detail by detail.</p><p>I've seen Chael Sonnen talk about training with Georges St-Pierre. GSP would ensure every inch of his technique was perfect, including his foot position. This meticulous drilling is what sets elite fighters apart.</p><h3>The Boredom of Repetition</h3><p>Many fighters get bored with repetitive drills and feel that if their coach makes them do the same technique over and over, they're stagnating. But guess what? When you drill a technique long enough, you gain a deeper understanding of it.</p><p>You might not be learning something new, but you're improving your mastery of that technique. If you practice one move 10,000 times, you'll probably be able to teach it better than most people. Even if others hit that move in fights, without the same number of reps, they won't have your level of understanding.</p><h3>Repetition in Grappling vs. Striking</h3><p>In striking, you're often forced to do reps—throwing countless jabs, crosses, and hooks during training. But in grappling, it’s easy to neglect repetition. Make sure you're doing the reps. If you know a technique but can't execute it on a high-level opponent, you don't know it well enough. If you can't explain a move to someone else in a way that they understand, you haven’t mastered it.</p><h3>The Value of Drilling: A Personal Development Perspective</h3><p>I'm a big believer in self-help and personal development. Bob Proctor once said, "You don't fully understand something unless you can explain it to someone else so that they understand it." This philosophy applies to martial arts too.</p><p>So keep drilling your techniques, even if you think you know them well. Martial arts revolve around timing and muscle memory. Master these aspects through repetition.</p><h3>Choosing the Right Martial Arts School</h3><p>If you're in the market for a good school, check out my book, "<strong><a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/3jidQUs" href="https://a.co/d/3jidQUs">Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts School Instructor.</a></strong>" This guide helps you identify the do's and don'ts, giving you a good idea of what to look for in a school.</p><p><strong>Tips for Choosing the Right School</strong><br><strong>Don't Rush</strong>: Don't fall for any quick signup schemes. Take your time to try out the classes.<br><strong>Trial Period:</strong> You should be allowed more than just a day’s trial. Opt for a couple of days at least.<br><strong>Variety</strong>: Try both striking and grappling classes to get a full sense of the training offered.</p><p>Make sure you're allowed to try both a striking and grappling class if the school offers them. Use the insights from my book to guide your decision. And most importantly, make sure you do the reps and drill consistently.</p><p>So remember, knowledge isn't enough in martial arts. Drilling is key to mastering your techniques and executing them flawlessly under pressure. Keep pushing, and you'll see the results in your growth as a martial artist.</p><figure id="figure-o639kcp55hhlwi5k6go"><iframe id="o639kcp55hhlwi5k6go" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_-SocXSiupA" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/_-SocXSiupA?si=t7H1WBef3KBq2ebr" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_-SocXSiupA" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

KNOWING IS NOT DOING IN MARTIAL ARTS! 🥊🥋

<p>What's up, guys? Today, I wanted to dive into the topic of sparring and the importance of toughening up certain people in the gym. A lot of kids come in, eager to fight, get better, and become martial artists. While not everyone aims to be a UFC fighter or a top-tier kickboxer, they still aspire to take fights and relish in the pride of calling themselves martial artists.</p><h3>The Path of a Casual Martial Artist</h3><p>Some may have just a few fights in their lifetime, but that's enough to tell their grandkids stories, show them footage, and cherish the achievement. Being a martial artist at any level is incredible. But today, we're focusing on the importance of having pride and a mean streak in your practice.</p><p><strong>Pride Over Toughness</strong></p><p>It's more about pride than toughness. It's essential to have pride and a bit of ego when sparring.</p><blockquote><p><em>When people say don't have an ego, they should really mean, don't get mad if you're losing. But absolutely, you should want to win every round of sparring.</em></p></blockquote><p>This doesn't mean resorting to dirty tactics - be ethical in your approaches, but stay competitive.</p><h3>Ethical Sparring</h3><p>Even in headgear, where intensity is agreed upon, maintain ethics. Avoid knee stomps or mid-sparring dirty tactics just because you're upset. Instead, focus on outperforming your partner within the agreed boundaries.</p><figure id="figure-8lbl0xtqdhlwh71jv7"><img id="8lbl0xtqdhlwh71jv7" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20tbOKLJmv0UM2nBZUR1uGKTeOu8A5ZLUYWCcVa5egF7rgLzTKqVuz34fjaMsjjk.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20tbOKLJmv0UM2nBZUR1uGKTeOu8A5ZLUYWCcVa5egF7rgLzTKqVuz34fjaMsjjk.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p>Even casual martial artists should maintain a sense of pride. You might not be a street-hardened fighter, but having pride will push you further in your journey. Encountering tough guys in sparring who may not even be mean themselves shows that pride can often be more about upbringing and personal experiences than just natural toughness.</p><h3>Learning to Get Mean</h3><p>To cultivate a mean streak, engaging in hard sparring can help. It's vital to stay ethical during sparring sessions:</p><p><strong>Don't </strong>elbow your partner in the face.<br><strong>Do </strong>round kick hard, as long as both parties agree to go hard.<br><strong>Don't </strong>knee someone in the face without pads.</p><p>Turning up intensity will naturally bring out your competitive edge, leading you to victory.</p><h3>Sparring Examples</h3><p>Sparring with tougher, more egotistical partners like street fighters can significantly aid your development. Growing up in hard circumstances, like in a poor country town, inherently teaches toughness and confrontational skills.</p><blockquote><p><em>Kids with rougher childhoods have ingrained pride and mean streaks. It's often about ego and pride developed from early street fights and arguments.</em></p></blockquote><h3>Transition From Casual to Hardcore</h3><figure id="figure-dibekhw5mwlwh729fm"><img id="dibekhw5mwlwh729fm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/4gzeeKlG68W6fe9qG1yY9lMZUlkcCfXGRvGOMZ8uq58GH8pxGTq4PZbKiT8KlIHP.png" alt="a man standing next to a statue of a horse" title="a man standing next to a statue of a horse" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/4gzeeKlG68W6fe9qG1yY9lMZUlkcCfXGRvGOMZ8uq58GH8pxGTq4PZbKiT8KlIHP.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p>Casual martial artists aiming to share sparring stories with pride can benefit from adopting a tougher, more competitive mindset. This task is daunting but achievable with dedication and perseverance through repeated sparring sessions.</p><p>Continuous testing against harder opponents can transition your mindset. You start as the nail, but eventually, you become the hammer.</p><h3>Emotional and Mental Benefits</h3><p>Moreover, maintaining pride and ego during sparring sessions fosters emotional resilience and mental toughness. It reinforces your commitment to maintaining an edge over your peers and keeps you from becoming complacent.</p><blockquote><p><em>Remember me and my teammate Sodiq Youssef? We pushed each other hard. We aspired to knock each other out because it boosted our competitive spirit.</em></p></blockquote><p>Having partners who spur intense competitiveness can greatly enhance your skills and preparedness for real fights.</p><h3>Building Confidence and Pride</h3><p>Competitive pride and ego serve to build confidence, a critical trait for any martial artist. Even if your ultimate goal is a couple of fights, maintaining pride will keep you focused and driven.</p><figure id="figure-936sbz6pq6lwh735i7"><img id="936sbz6pq6lwh735i7" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2aiP97qeZ4vaThcpAc3XQgbNO2r1xgtdzhezpZRmFeMtL7Du3g2rVjkmNBOtsvDE.png" alt="a man standing next to a statue of a horse" title="a man standing next to a statue of a horse" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2aiP97qeZ4vaThcpAc3XQgbNO2r1xgtdzhezpZRmFeMtL7Du3g2rVjkmNBOtsvDE.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p>Regardless of your fighting level, you will encounter highly competitive individuals striving for victory at all costs. Preparing yourself for such encounters is essential to hold your ground and emerge victorious.</p><h3>Skills and Mentality</h3><p>While physical skills are crucial, combining them with a determined prideful mentality ensures you fight harder. As mentioned earlier, it's not about being the toughest on the streets but applying pride, ego, and skills during training and actual fights.</p><h3>Progressing as a Martial Artist</h3><p>Encounters with alpha males in the sport will demand that you bring forth your best skills and an indomitable spirit.</p><blockquote><p><em>Tell your grandkids you fought! Continue working hard, starting as a white belt and aiming for that black belt.</em></p></blockquote><p>To push past limitations, engage regularly in hard sparring with individuals who are tough, mean, and ready to challenge you. This practice ensures you transition effectively from being on the receiving end to dishing out the hard knocks.</p><h3>Encouragement to Fellow Practitioners</h3><p>Keep working on your technique, toughness, and, most importantly, cultivate a meaner, more competitive mentality.</p><blockquote><p><em>Some of you guys have the potential but need to get meaner. Spar hard, get those ass-whoopings, and eventually, you'll become the hammer.</em></p></blockquote><figure id="figure-pcfe97brolwh756d1"><img id="pcfe97brolwh756d1" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3bU6zCChnKpdNd61CYyu4eKCndFJF9aTflcpFBuLkh8KoDVwKDzVmmk7yUoo0oM2.png" alt="person holding white and blue ball" title="person holding white and blue ball" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3bU6zCChnKpdNd61CYyu4eKCndFJF9aTflcpFBuLkh8KoDVwKDzVmmk7yUoo0oM2.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p>In summary, nest your pride and ego deeply in your martial arts journey. This drive will carve your path to becoming a formidable opponent and a respected martial artist.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Embrace the journey, endure the hardships, and let your ego and pride propel you toward excellence. Remember, it's all about showing up, keep sparring hard, and developing that competitive edge that will make all the difference.</p><p>Keep working hard and stay strong. Until next time!</p><figure id="figure-8laxkprhrplwh70fgd"><iframe id="8laxkprhrplwh70fgd" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xfSSI-HlySI" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/xfSSI-HlySI?si=4wqruA5BytAahsIM" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xfSSI-HlySI" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

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