Blog

What's up, guys? Today, we're diving into a question that's on the minds of many aspiring fighters: how important is athleticism in fighting? We're going to break down whether being super athletic gives you a significant edge in fighting or if you can still succeed even if you didn't play sports your entire life.<h3>Importance of Athleticism in Fighting</h3>Athleticism Matters in Every SportFirstly, let's get this out of the way: being athletic in any sport matters.<blockquote>Firstly, let's get this out of the way: being athletic in any sport matters.</blockquote><figure id="figure-ngbou3478nlwprolq7"><img id="ngbou3478nlwprolq7" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35TkinWEoUScKpq5pGtn0mcqXkcsRQy9YKPBV4lKCz6B8RpvqP6JYS657OZpQv6w.png" alt="white feet statue" title="white feet statue" 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/35TkinWEoUScKpq5pGtn0mcqXkcsRQy9YKPBV4lKCz6B8RpvqP6JYS657OZpQv6w.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Athleticism gives you certain physical advantages that can make a huge difference in performance, whether it's speed, strength, or agility.Athleticism in Fighting vs. Other SportsHowever, athleticism matters less in fighting compared to other sports like football or basketball. If you’re aiming to be a running back or a free safety in the NFL, the physical criteria are pretty strict. You need to be an athletic specimen running a 4.3 or 4.4 forty-yard dash to even have a shot at those positions.<figure id="figure-9cxycn0x4lwprp2ih"><img id="9cxycn0x4lwprp2ih" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31Q7zschyt8mSSWGor3ZNende5zSfMPjUfM8JfFsAIdUwTE56JcYCgb8u3v1VIQ0.png" alt="training...." title="training...." 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/31Q7zschyt8mSSWGor3ZNende5zSfMPjUfM8JfFsAIdUwTE56JcYCgb8u3v1VIQ0.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>But fighting is a different beast. Even if you're incredibly athletic, if you're 155 pounds, your chances of making it to the NFL are slim. However, in the UFC, you could build a good career at that weight. Athleticism here plays a different but just as crucial role.<h3>Athleticism in Different Fighting Styles</h3>MMA vs. Boxing or KickboxingAthleticism arguably matters more in MMA than in boxing or kickboxing. In MMA, athletes use little gloves, and fast-twitch muscle fibers can make a significant difference. If someone is fast, athletic, and hits hard, they have a great chance of landing a punch that could end the fight.<figure id="figure-i11s7cwuiplwprpp8j"><img id="i11s7cwuiplwprpp8j" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/14RrlWabguWwhO5RP2khhX7eKqF1GxyqmdCjPOThksitZorZY3nTAkWReBn77RBG.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/14RrlWabguWwhO5RP2khhX7eKqF1GxyqmdCjPOThksitZorZY3nTAkWReBn77RBG.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>In boxing or kickboxing, larger gloves can cushion blows, giving fighters who are not as athletic a bit more of an edge. But in MMA, those four-ounce gloves mean that one good punch can be a game-changer.<h3>The Role of Toughness</h3>Let’s not forget toughness. Fighters may not be as athletic as NFL or NBA players, but what we may lack in athleticism, we make up for in sheer toughness. Fighting demands resilience and the ability to push through pain and adversity.<blockquote>Fighters are tough. Fighters have to be tough.</blockquote><h3>The Athletic Base: From Childhood to Adulthood</h3>The Advantage of Early Sports ParticipationPlaying sports growing up provides an invaluable foundation. Kids who engage in sports like basketball, football, or track develop coordination, balance, and strength early on. This foundational athleticism often translates well into fighting.<figure id="figure-ehydgajrglwprqi9c"><img id="ehydgajrglwprqi9c" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/39VHTo7u5sZMKteJa0TClUgeHsd5EHg3ImDSvHl66LMzTK7AqEIvxYMAt3LxgJgq.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/39VHTo7u5sZMKteJa0TClUgeHsd5EHg3ImDSvHl66LMzTK7AqEIvxYMAt3LxgJgq.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>When you’ve played sports your whole life, your body naturally learns to balance, move quickly, and act instinctively. Those who didn’t play sports are at a disadvantage—they generally lack the same power and fast-twitch muscles, which takes them longer to develop.Personal ExperiencesI grew up in a small town in North Texas with no access to combat sports. All we had were football, basketball, and baseball. While I’m not the most athletic, playing these sports and lifting weights helped develop my body and prepare me for fighting.<blockquote>Playing basketball, football, and track at a young age, in lifting weights, did help develop my body enough and it really helped me prepare for fighting.</blockquote>My balance, takedown defense, and ability to get back up quickly can be attributed to my early sports participation.<h3>Starting Late: Can You Succeed?</h3>Building Athleticism Later in LifeFor those who didn’t play sports growing up but are determined to become fighters, the road is a bit tougher but not impossible. Building that athletic base takes longer, but with dedication and the right training, it can be done.Recommended Sports to Build an Athletic BaseIf you can, engage in sports that mix well with martial arts, such as wrestling, boxing, Taekwondo, or Karate. These can significantly help in your fighting journey.<blockquote>Try and play sports when you're young. If you can do sports that involve, that are mixed in with mixed martial arts like wrestling, boxing, taekwondo, karate, whatever, those really help.</blockquote>Overall, having an athletic base is advantageous in any sport, including fighting. While it’s not a strict requirement, it certainly makes the path easier and helps improve performance.<h3>Final Thoughts</h3>Athleticism does help in fighting, but it’s not the only factor. Toughness, skill, and dedication also play crucial roles. Whether you’ve been an athlete all your life or are starting late, there’s always a path to success in the fighting world.If you’re considering getting into MMA or martial arts training, check out my book, <a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/0pnDikd" href="https://a.co/d/0pnDikd" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ultimate Guidance: Your Martial Arts School and Instructor</a>. The link is in the description below.Stay tuned for more insights and keep those questions coming. Drop a comment on any topics you'd like me to cover in future videos!<figure id="figure-yh8m3aqkuelwprni6x"><iframe id="yh8m3aqkuelwprni6x" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YhzxVuxBuyc" 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/YhzxVuxBuyc?si=OZVfium-nbQ_eMkG" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YhzxVuxBuyc" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

DO YOU HAVE TO BE ATHLETIC TO BE A FIGHTER! 🥊🥋

So, why is your coach not letting you fight yet? This is a question many martial arts trainees have after dedicating time to their training. In a recent inquiry, someone mentioned they've been training for over a year and wondered why their coach still isn't letting them step into the ring. It's a broad question with many possible answers.<h3>Why Your MMA Coach Isn't Letting You Fight</h3>If you're training in MMA, it's essential to be well-rounded. Achieving proficiency in both grappling and striking within a year is a tough challenge. You need more time to develop these skills effectively.For Boxers and KickboxersIn boxing or kickboxing, the scenario might be different. If you've been training for less than two years and still aren't cleared to fight, your coach is likely looking after you. They have your best interest at heart.<h3>A Coach's Dilemma</h3>As a coach, deciding who is ready to fight is a big responsibility. I've been there—wanting to jump into fights right off the bat. In retrospect, that approach wasn’t the best, even though I managed to make it work. I had my first boxing match just two weeks after starting training, and three months later, I clinched my first golden gloves championship. But not everyone has the same advantages or preparation levels.Coaches and Their ResponsibilitiesIf your coach hasn't greenlit your fight after a year or two, trust they're looking out for your well-being. Coaches aim to protect their fighters foremost. A lot of their decision-making hinges on sparring sessions and overall performance. If you're among the gym's better fighters yet aren't getting fight opportunities, then there might be other factors at play.<blockquote>"The issue as a coach, your job is to protect the fighter, period." - Coach</blockquote><h3>Assessing Sparring and Technique</h3>If you're struggling in sparring sessions, it's undeniably a sign that more training is needed. It’s not a matter of permanent inability; it’s about needing more time.Exploring Sparring PerformanceIf your sparring rounds aren't going well and you're being overwhelmed by others, more time in training is essential. This isn't to discourage you but to ensure your development is on track.<figure id="figure-me07ricp1ilwpqysm3"><img id="me07ricp1ilwpqysm3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26D5Xq71alYhD6j13iy42ERdUVXBaEIOPsWhSYOaXtDP9cZHc23vFeZxq5uAwx0L.png" alt="brown and grey trees and rock formation painting" title="brown and grey trees and rock formation 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" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26D5Xq71alYhD6j13iy42ERdUVXBaEIOPsWhSYOaXtDP9cZHc23vFeZxq5uAwx0L.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Technique MattersEven if you’re aggressive and can handle tough rounds due to sheer resilience, bad technique can be a deal-breaker for your coach. They might not want their reputation tied to subpar performance. Real and dedicated coaches value proper technique highly.<h3>Building From the Ground Up</h3>Development in martial arts is an accumulation of multiple factors, from winning sparring rounds to withstanding tough training conditions. If you’re being broken down during sparring, the adrenaline dump in your first few fights can be too overwhelming. Fitness also plays a key role—perhaps you need to put in more hours and work harder.Physical and Mental PreparationYour overall shape, both physical and mental, is essential. The anxiety and physical demands of fighting aren’t something to take lightly, and rushing into it can lead to serious injury.<figure id="figure-0feq5gdc5lwpqukaj"><img id="0feq5gdc5lwpqukaj" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1DYzI05J4pOQgNS5lhc8uJZRNwlAZagqa3XMv4oHmycImmS7XDdiVi8jAV5ZtKnD.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/1DYzI05J4pOQgNS5lhc8uJZRNwlAZagqa3XMv4oHmycImmS7XDdiVi8jAV5ZtKnD.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>The Risk of Switching Teams</h3>Thinking about switching teams because your coach isn't letting you fight can be risky. I've seen many trainees leave a rigorous coach, looking for easier opportunities elsewhere. While some succeed initially, the long-term repercussions often include serious injuries and career setbacks.Consequences of Rushing Into FightsSwitching to a team with lower standards may result in early fight wins but eventually leads to getting hurt. Proper development is crucial, and skipping it in search for quick wins is a dangerous path.<h3>The Importance of Patience</h3>In martial arts, as in life, patience is a virtue. You can follow all the right steps and still face challenges. But cutting corners and rushing your fight career often leads to worse outcomes.Deeper ConversationsIf you're feeling frustrated, consider talking to your coach directly. They can offer valuable insights into your current progress and what needs improvement. They're likely to affirm that their primary goal is your development and safety.<blockquote>Look at them almost like an uncle to you or a father, a family member that doesn’t want you to get hurt.</blockquote><h3>When to Consider Leaving Your Coach</h3>You should only consider leaving your coach if they’re teaching poor technique, not because they’re making you take your time. Proper technique is paramount for both performance and safety.<h3>Conclusion</h3>Trust your coach. They’re experienced and have your best interests at heart. Stick to your training, patiently develop your skills, and understand that the journey in martial arts is as important as the destination.Engage With The CommunityDo you have any questions or need further insights? Comment below! For new martial arts enthusiasts, check out my book on Amazon, "<a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/hBv3ZbU" href="https://a.co/d/hBv3ZbU" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Martial Arts School and Instructor.</a>"Thank you, and keep training hard! 💪If you have any other questions or topics you'd like to see covered, drop them in the comments. Let's keep the discussion going!<figure id="figure-rsap62musplwpqr8o4"><iframe id="rsap62musplwpqr8o4" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x1jztxwzbZ0" 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/x1jztxwzbZ0?si=XcRINKc-UrLR8tyU" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x1jztxwzbZ0" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

WHY IS YOUR COACH NOT LETTING YOU FIGHT!!?? 🥊🥋😭

American Muay Thai: The Importance of Sparring HardWhat's up, guys? Today I want to talk about something that has been on my mind for a while: American Muay Thai and the concept of sparring hard. I’ve done similar videos in the past, but this one is a bit different. I truly believe this is where a lot of American Muay Thai gyms really mess up—they don't spar hard enough.<h3>The Misconception About Sparring Hard</h3>A lot of American Muay Thai gyms have bought into the philosophy that Thai fighters don’t train hard or spar hard, and this couldn’t be further from the truth. While some gyms in the U.S do spar hard, many avoid it, thinking it aligns with traditional Thai training. Having been to Thailand five times and trained in various gyms, I can confidently say this is a misconception.<blockquote>I've been to Thailand five times, and some of the Thais do spar hard. It just depends on where you go and what they're doing.</blockquote><h3>Training in Thailand: A Reality Check</h3>I've trained at some of the best gyms in Thailand, including Petchyindee, Fairtex, Phuket Top Team, Tiger Muay Thai, and Maximum Muay Thai. I’ve spent about five months in total training there, and here's what I've observed:Varied Approaches in Different Gyms1. Petchyindee and Bangkok Gyms:These gyms were phenomenal. They trained harder than any gym I went to. They sparred boxing very hard, with headgear on, and went full force. 2. Fairtex:High-level fighters sparred hard. Boxing was a significant part of their training, and they didn’t hold back.<figure id="figure-3f8f9bku7dlx9k8ris"><img id="3f8f9bku7dlx9k8ris" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/24woWNPjcxMLNeZconIRHdN7VuXdnoaXEEfpzjZwKu4OAn1MpwnONixUTHoG8q5o.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" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/24woWNPjcxMLNeZconIRHdN7VuXdnoaXEEfpzjZwKu4OAn1MpwnONixUTHoG8q5o.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Boxing vs. Muay Thai Sparring</h3>One key point is that while Thai fighters may spar lighter in Muay Thai to protect their legs and avoid injuries, they go hard when it comes to boxing. For instance, at Petchyindee, I witnessed kids doing ten three-minute rounds of boxing sparring at full intensity. This approach prepares them for the pace of a real fight.Misunderstanding Frequency and IntensityMany American gyms avoid hard sparring because they fear injuries, which makes sense if you’re fighting very frequently. However, the reality for most fighters in the U.S. is different:Thai Fighters:Can have 12-15 fights a year. Some even fight twice a month, accumulating up to 25 fights annually. American Fighters:Professionals are lucky to get five or six fights a year. The average fighter might only have four fights annually.<figure id="figure-klah7wnrwalx9k9dt6"><img id="klah7wnrwalx9k9dt6" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/39jZnZVbiZ0pmltXKbzQSz3ZwHGtblbCGHqvQ4vZ3s0tXH0tTlGMtwOygWReUHQN.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/39jZnZVbiZ0pmltXKbzQSz3ZwHGtblbCGHqvQ4vZ3s0tXH0tTlGMtwOygWReUHQN.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Why American Muay Thai Needs Hard Sparring&nbsp;</h3>Given the lower fight frequency in the U.S., the logic of avoiding hard sparring to prevent injury doesn’t hold as strongly. Fighters here have more recovery time between bouts, allowing for harder sparring sessions without significantly increasing the risk of missing fights due to injury.Balancing Light and Hard SparringI’m not advocating for only hard sparring. There needs to be a balance:Light Sparring: Helps in skill development and injury prevention. Hard Sparring: Prepares you for the real intensity and pace of a fight. Unfortunately, many American gyms focus almost exclusively on light sparring, neglecting the importance of hard sparring.<h3>Conclusion</h3>If you’re serious about Muay Thai, especially in America, it’s crucial to incorporate both light and hard sparring into your training regimen. This balanced approach will better prepare you for fights while minimizing the risk of injury.<figure id="figure-jnub9zrl6olx9k9svl"><img id="jnub9zrl6olx9k9svl" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11ZNSgU2dYi2E5nk4G5VPXkRkguBI5NhFIKNpOtwkZ2HZGCPPqEKFWXUqkERQpPt.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"/></figure><h3>Want to Learn More?</h3>If you’re new to martial arts and unsure where to start, check out my book, <a data-mce-href="https://youtu.be/f2G6AwYHDKE?si=geucv8nABY81Uyw2" href="https://youtu.be/f2G6AwYHDKE?si=geucv8nABY81Uyw2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts School and Instructor</a>. It's packed with insights to help you find the best training environment for your needs.Thank you for reading. If you have any questions or topics you’d like me to cover, leave a comment below.Thank you guys!By following these guidelines, I hope to shed light on the importance of hard sparring in American Muay Thai and help you find the right approach to your training. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned fighter, sparring hard, when balanced correctly, can significantly elevate your skills and performance.<figure id="figure-sp0y6gbiglx9k79ni"><iframe id="sp0y6gbiglx9k79ni" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/f2G6AwYHDKE" 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/f2G6AwYHDKE?si=geucv8nABY81Uyw2" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/f2G6AwYHDKE" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

DEBUNKING MYTHS ABOUT MUAY THAI TRAINING! 🥊😎

Hey everyone! We've got an important question today regarding how to improve your cardio for fighting. Whether you're gearing up for your next amateur fight or aiming to go pro, having top-notch cardio is crucial. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what really works and what doesn't.<h3>The Real Deal: Sparring, Sparring, Sparring</h3>When it comes to fighting, there's nothing quite like the real thing. Sparring, whether it's grappling or striking, is the cornerstone of improving your fight cardio. Constantly engaging in high-paced, high-intensity sparring sessions mimics the real deal: punching someone in the face, kicking hard, and wrestling with shoulder pressure.Key Advice<blockquote>There's nothing simulates fighting like really fighting.</blockquote>Incorporating consistent sparring sessions where you push the pace and attack relentlessly will condition your heart and lungs better than any other method.Why Strength and Conditioning Might Be OverratedIn today's fight world, strength and conditioning are often glorified. But is it really as essential as we've been led to believe?While strength conditioning can be beneficial, it often takes a back seat to actual fighting practice. Fighters who've been training since a young age can afford to focus more on conditioning, but if you're starting late in your career, here's a pro tip:Focus more on skill set development rather than spending an hour of your two-hour practice session on strength and conditioning.A Practical ScheduleIf you have:Limited Time: Prioritize skill sets. Train hard in your available time. More Time: Incorporate conditioning, but never skip technical training.Tailoring Your Training to Your ExperienceYour training regimen should be tailored to where you are in your fighting career. Have you been training your whole life? If so, adding strength and conditioning works well. But if you've started late and are trying to catch up, here are a few thoughts:1. Skill Over Strength: Focus on honing your fight skills. 2. Simulate Real Fights: Engage in intense, real-esque sparring sessions.<h3>Practical Conditioning Tips</h3>If you're confined to a limited training schedule, here’s how to maximize your time:Bag WorkRoutine 10 X 3-minute rounds on punching bags: That’s 30 minutes of high-intensity work with 1-minute rest intervals. Total Time: 45 minutes<figure id="figure-g0b8squ2volwppys15"><img id="g0b8squ2volwppys15" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aeHJQGfWNonglsDlXHWUExw0wjE4JsHmtmRPPsMzYJ5Y6E2G3vuyvxjMxto7x1G.png" alt="blue Art neon sign turned on" title="blue Art neon sign turned on" 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/1aeHJQGfWNonglsDlXHWUExw0wjE4JsHmtmRPPsMzYJ5Y6E2G3vuyvxjMxto7x1G.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>GrapplingRoutine <strong style="font-family: var(--body-fontFamily); font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity)); border-color: rgba(229,231,235,var(--tw-border-opacity)); --tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgba(62,172,255,.5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-transform: translateX(var(--tw-translate-x)) translateY(var(--tw-translate-y)) rotate(var(--tw-rotate)) skewX(var(--tw-skew-x)) skewY(var(--tw-skew-y)) scaleX(var(--tw-scale-x)) scaleY(var(--tw-scale-y)); --tw-border-opacity: 1; --tw-filter: var(--tw-blur) var(--tw-brightness) var(--tw-contrast) var(--tw-grayscale) var(--tw-hue-rotate) var(--tw-invert) var(--tw-saturate) var(--tw-sepia) var(--tw-drop-shadow); --tw-backdrop-filter: var(--tw-backdrop-blur) var(--tw-backdrop-brightness) var(--tw-backdrop-contrast) var(--tw-backdrop-grayscale) var(--tw-backdrop-hue-rotate) var(--tw-backdrop-invert) var(--tw-backdrop-opacity) var(--tw-backdrop-saturate) var(--tw-backdrop-sepia);" data-mce-style="font-family: var(--body-fontFamily); font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity)); border-color: rgba(229,231,235,var(--tw-border-opacity)); --tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgba(62,172,255,.5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-transform: translateX(var(--tw-translate-x)) translateY(var(--tw-translate-y)) rotate(var(--tw-rotate)) skewX(var(--tw-skew-x)) skewY(var(--tw-skew-y)) scaleX(var(--tw-scale-x)) scaleY(var(--tw-scale-y)); --tw-border-opacity: 1; --tw-filter: var(--tw-blur) var(--tw-brightness) var(--tw-contrast) var(--tw-grayscale) var(--tw-hue-rotate) var(--tw-invert) var(--tw-saturate) var(--tw-sepia) var(--tw-drop-shadow); --tw-backdrop-filter: var(--tw-backdrop-blur) var(--tw-backdrop-brightness) var(--tw-backdrop-contrast) var(--tw-backdrop-grayscale) var(--tw-backdrop-hue-rotate) var(--tw-backdrop-invert) var(--tw-backdrop-opacity) var(--tw-backdrop-saturate) var(--tw-backdrop-sepia);">5 X 5-minute rounds of grappling<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">: A solid 25-minute cardio workout.Tip: Focus on takedown drills and heavy rolling sessions to simulate an actual fight scenario.Supplemental ExercisesAfter your technical training, you can add:Push-ups, Pull-ups, Dips: Strengthen your upper body and build endurance.Never Skip RoundsOne vital piece of advice: Never, ever skip rounds during training. Whether it's sparring or grappling, always push through each round.<blockquote>The answer is, you get your cardio from doing the rounds. That is the best advice I can give anybody is never set out around.</blockquote><figure id="figure-cvj17b9kv9lwppzjlp"><img id="cvj17b9kv9lwppzjlp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aBHoMLxo9eB1UVMsD5vcZD7dDPaTN0yZkkUzsL3r8czPxl7HgkbK1lMbOMZAjgL.png" alt="angel in blue dress painting" title="angel in blue dress 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>Personal AnecdoteWhen I started training at 20, I made it a point to outwork everyone in the gym. I wouldn’t let myself sit out even for a single round. This mentality pushed me to reach higher levels of cardio and skill.<h3>The Role of Technique</h3>Even if you're in the best shape of your life, poor technique can be your undoing. Knowing how to escape bad positions or defend against attacks is crucial. Balance your intense training sessions with a focus on mastering techniques:Defending Double-Legs Escaping Mount and Back Positions<h3>Conclusion: Train Hard, Train Smart</h3>To wrap it up, achieving excellent fight cardio comes down to one simple principle: train hard and fight hard in practice. Whether you're sparring, hitting the bags, or working on technique, give it your all.Additional Tips Supplement with Conditioning: Push-ups, pull-ups, sprints, and running post-practice. Don’t Skip Technique for Cardio: Balancing both is essential.Let us know what other topics you'd like to see! Drop your questions in the comments, and don’t forget to check out our guide on choosing the right martial arts school for you.<a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/dJ3Decs" href="https://a.co/d/dJ3Decs">Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts School</a>Thanks for reading, and keep training hard!Remember to align your ambitions with your training intensity and always stay hungry for improvement. Happy fighting!Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. What works best for you in keeping your fight cardio top-notch?<figure id="figure-42x20rj5qelwppx4wr"><iframe id="42x20rj5qelwppx4wr" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cS_GvqaqJjs" 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/cS_GvqaqJjs?si=8JcRtr0ZgN4Cb2RR" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cS_GvqaqJjs" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

WHAT YOU REALLY NEED TO DO TO HAVE GOOD CARDIO IN MMA! 🥊🥋😎

What's up, guys? Today, we're diving into a crucial aspect of martial arts that often doesn't get enough attention - defense. I recently got asked about how to stay calm and composed when you're fighting or sparring defensively. First off, let's state the obvious: defense is the hardest thing to get used to in martial arts.<h3>Why Defense is Often Overlooked</h3>It's relatively easy to learn how to throw punches. Heck, that's the fun part! But defense? Not so much. Unfortunately, defense is also the least taught aspect of martial arts. Why is that?Coaching Issues: A significant part of the problem is that many coaches don't focus on teaching defense. Some coaches, especially those who haven't fought themselves, might not emphasize defensive techniques.<blockquote>From my experience, the coaches that have the most fights teach the best defense.</blockquote>I've trained in Thailand, Holland, different states, and countries, and this trend is consistent. Coaches with a wealth of fight experience usually teach the best defense. This isn't to discredit all coaches without fight experience, but it's a pattern I've noticed over the years.The Learning CurveGetting used to punches flying at your face takes time. It's not something that happens overnight. There are drills you can do to get better at it, but the reality is that it just takes time and practice.<h3>Proven Defensive Drills</h3>There are plenty of drills designed to improve your defensive skills. Here are a few that I've found particularly effective:1. Offense-Defense Drills: One person goes on offense while the other focuses solely on defense. However, do these drills slowly.<figure id="figure-uyksatf56solwpp05mx"><img id="uyksatf56solwpp05mx" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2qVQ0sq2knEahOu2LtH4tbG7qS9dNYAe0Ium2DU3fa7rTG7Z6UI6eeEqYr4KrIud.png" alt="green and white floral textile" title="green and white floral textile" 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/2qVQ0sq2knEahOu2LtH4tbG7qS9dNYAe0Ium2DU3fa7rTG7Z6UI6eeEqYr4KrIud.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>What often happens is that one person swings wildly while the other just moves a lot or blocks everything. This isn't effective training. Drill at 30-50% speed and power to allow for proper technique execution. &nbsp;2. Choreographed Drills: These involve practicing specific defensive moves in a set pattern. For instance, you might slip, slip, roll, catch, and so on. Practice these slowly to get the techniques down before speeding up.The Importance of Slow TrainingWhen you train defense, start slow. Punches should come at you at 20-40% speed and power. You might even choreograph the drills to start with. This helps build muscle memory and allows you to chain defensive moves together, just like you would with offensive combinations.<blockquote>If you can't do something right slow, then you can't do it right fast.</blockquote>This wisdom applies across all forms of defense, whether it's slipping, parrying, blocking, or countering punches. Drill slow first, then speed up as you get more comfortable.<h3>Common Mistakes in Defensive Training</h3>One common mistake is jumping into hard sparring without a strong defensive foundation. Here's a better approach:1. Begin Slowly: Focus on deliberate, slow training of specific defenses. 2. Light Sparring: Once you're comfortable with the techniques, engage in light sparring to try them out without the pressure of hard sparring. 3. Incremental Hard Sparring: Start hard sparring with someone less skilled than you. This allows you to try new things without getting overwhelmed.<figure id="figure-jsgbeza57elwpp10kw"><img id="jsgbeza57elwpp10kw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/4nFasHik5ozWOoHbn3RUpgdggDx6G75BqneDEB0kerLuyiVseOPwAPdK2PSwIEnj.png" alt="man in white long sleeve shirt holding black and white corded power tool" title="man in white long sleeve shirt holding black and white corded power tool" 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>Research and RefinementDedicate as much time to studying defense as you do offense. Look up defensive drills for boxing, kickboxing, grappling, etc., online. YouTube is an excellent resource for this.<h3>How to Integrate Defensive Training</h3>1. Train Slow First: For the first few months, focus on slow, deliberate training. 2. Ask Your Coach: If your coach doesn't emphasize defense, ask them to. If they're a good coach, they'll seek out drills and techniques to help you. 3. Balanced Training: Aim for a 50-50 split in your training between offense and defense.<blockquote>There's research involved here, guys. This is not just, you watch a video and you can fight like Mike Tyson.</blockquote><h3>Conclusion</h3>If you're new to martial arts, or even if you're experienced but struggle with defense, the key is to start slow. Focus on deliberate practice, and don't rush into fast sparring before you're ready. Remember to:1. Train slow and deliberate 2. Incremental sparring 3. Research and refine your techniquesFor more detailed guides and tips, check out my book, <a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/cyy9jfA" href="https://a.co/d/cyy9jfA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts Instructor</a>. It's packed with advice on finding the right gym and coach.Leave a comment below with any questions or topics you'd like me to cover in future videos. Thanks for reading, and stay sharp out there!<figure id="figure-xnjjsca52lwpoz1ah"><iframe id="xnjjsca52lwpoz1ah" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H0EUtZpN_5s" 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/H0EUtZpN_5s?si=_Yyv-6uI3SDI7SUq" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H0EUtZpN_5s" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

HOW TO LEARN HOW TO GET COMFORTABLE WITH DEFENSE! 🥊🥋

<h3>Introduction</h3>What's up, guys? I wanted to do a little blog post real quick. Pretty simple topic, but honestly, I can't believe I even have to say this. For any of you young fighters out there, you're going to fight the way you train.<h3>The Impact of Training on Fighting</h3>As easy and simple as that is, you're gonna fight the way you train. I have students, and I'm always telling them, "Keep your hands up. Keep your hands up." Over the years, I've trained with people, and when I'd say, "Hey, keep your hands up," I had a guy one time tell me, "Oh, well, I maybe drop them now, but I'm gonna keep them up in a fight." And I said, "No, you're not."You're not gonna keep them up. I mean, even I have a problem keeping my hands up. I'll be honest with you—I felt like I wasn't taught the right way initially, and it kind of haunted me over the years. So that's why when my young fighters have certain issues like not moving their head off center line or not keeping their hands up, they're too stationary, or they don't set their feet—they're gonna take those flaws into the fight. They will carry over whatever they're doing wrong in practice. Conversely, whatever they're doing right in practice, they'll also carry into the fight.<h3>Practicing for Perfection</h3>Here's the kicker: you can practice with perfect technique, 100% technique, as best you can, and you're still not going to maintain that in a fight. Nobody does. Floyd Mayweather is one of the most technical boxers in the history of the world, and even he has technical lapses. Sometimes when he fights, everybody does. So if you don't train close to perfect, you're definitely not gonna have great technique come fight time.The goal should be to train as close to perfect as possible to make sure that you maintain as much of that as you can during the fight. If you halfway go through the motions, don't keep your hands up when you're sparring or hitting the bag or pads—whatever the drill—no one’s slapping you with the pads, no one’s correcting your defense.<figure id="figure-pktag6pn7dlwpn2buv"><img id="pktag6pn7dlwpn2buv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/bINZpFHTpHKu45HoRudNf5JUNhNlimsbNXT4tegldA2HpmdosSTGsExIUBpuKJms.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/bINZpFHTpHKu45HoRudNf5JUNhNlimsbNXT4tegldA2HpmdosSTGsExIUBpuKJms.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Consistency in Training: Grappling and Striking</h3>This happens a lot. I see a lot of people that are just pad holders but don't teach any defense. Whatever you do in practice, you’re gonna do in the fight. These bad habits, whether in grappling or striking, will continue into the fight. Don’t be naive or delusional enough to think that because you think it’s cool to drop your hands, all of a sudden come fight time, you're gonna magically keep them in perfect position when you didn’t practice that way.Let’s say it's grappling: if you can’t get up in practice, you definitely aren’t getting up in a fight. I have a student that tells me, “In a real fight, I'll get up anytime I want,” and I’m thinking, “You can't even get up in practice.”<h3>Practical Advice for Fighters</h3>Just remember, guys, it really is that simple. You're going to fight the way you practice.There are a lot of variables—nervousness, early injuries in the fight, or whatever. But as a whole, you’re gonna fight the way you practice. Ensure your technique is as close to perfect as possible in everything you do, because if you're lucky, come fight time, you'll maintain a good percentage of that. If your technique is off and sloppy in practice, it'll be even worse and really sloppy in the fight.<figure id="figure-q73ke52fcxlwpn3jpl"><img id="q73ke52fcxlwpn3jpl" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/5wcIz9KZEjtSaiBatRrjsaTqLSa535pn4HPchCedlfEUDe7EmvAM5rTUysur6yV2.png" alt="white feet statue" title="white feet statue" 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/5wcIz9KZEjtSaiBatRrjsaTqLSa535pn4HPchCedlfEUDe7EmvAM5rTUysur6yV2.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Key Takeaways</h3><blockquote>You’re going to train the way you fight, and fight the way you practice.</blockquote>So make it count in practice. Make sure to:1. Maintain Consistent Technique: Always strive for perfect technique in every drill. 2. Correct Bad Habits Early: Bad practice habits carry over into fights. Fix them in training. 3. Push Through Imperfections: Even the best fighters are not perfect. Practice brings you closer to perfection. 4. Prepare for Real Fight Scenarios: Practice just like you're in a real fight. The intensity and focus should mirror an actual fight.<figure id="figure-gmtl02sdnshlwpn442d"><img id="gmtl02sdnshlwpn442d" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20nomYfSBZSSFEHB5kwRQ8WkQpjWmkI9OuWh80aEWgbdRyjTFSFXnukdvLZCYLib.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"/></figure><h3>Getting Started in Martial Arts</h3>For those looking to get their start, check out my book, <a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/fNzChlQ" href="https://a.co/d/fNzChlQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Martial Arts: The Ultimate Guide to Choose Your Martial Arts School &amp; Instructor</a>. The link is in the description below. Also, subscribe to this channel, I really appreciate it. Leave any questions or topics you'd like me to talk about in the comments.Thank you, guys.If you're ready to take your training to the next level, remember: the way you practice is the way you will fight. Stay disciplined, train hard, and keep pushing for that perfect technique.<figure id="figure-tr9uhc53clwpn1ncc"><iframe id="tr9uhc53clwpn1ncc" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/D-L07EgUIG8" 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/D-L07EgUIG8?si=exhpsP-Rya8-xlp1" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/D-L07EgUIG8" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

Blog

DO YOU HAVE TO BE ATHLETIC TO BE A FIGHTER! 🥊🥋

WHY IS YOUR COACH NOT LETTING YOU FIGHT!!?? 🥊🥋😭

DEBUNKING MYTHS ABOUT MUAY THAI TRAINING! 🥊😎

WHAT YOU REALLY NEED TO DO TO HAVE GOOD CARDIO IN MMA! 🥊...

HOW TO LEARN HOW TO GET COMFORTABLE WITH DEFENSE! 🥊🥋

YOU WILL FIGHT THE WAY YOU TRAIN! 🥊🥋