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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>

YOU WILL FIGHT THE WAY YOU TRAIN! 🥊🥋

What's up, guys? Today, I want to dive into a topic that doesn't get much attention but is crucial for fighters—whether you're a newbie or looking to go pro. We're talking about breaking bad habits. Specifically, why it's so much easier to break bad grappling habits than it is to break bad striking habits. Trust me, as a coach who's been in the game for a while, this is something you need to hear.<h3>The Simple Reason: Repetition</h3>The core reason striking habits are harder to fix is the number of reps you get. Think about it—if I tell you to throw jabs for three minutes straight, you could easily get in at least 100 jabs even with good technique.<figure id="figure-coxbbp4ynlwpk86xr"><img id="coxbbp4ynlwpk86xr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/301yo7QNqyl7gPwbel2NF34Ti4yoahAXmWu7hL4A9gpDZsWwVuYchh7cRKiT9afP.png" alt="person with white powder on face" title="person with white powder on face" 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/301yo7QNqyl7gPwbel2NF34Ti4yoahAXmWu7hL4A9gpDZsWwVuYchh7cRKiT9afP.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>But what if I asked you to shoot as many double legs as you could in that same time frame? We're definitely not hitting 100 reps unless you're some elite-level wrestler. Let's face it, most of us aren't. This is particularly true for young fighters who are cutting their teeth, aiming for UFC glory or just trying to be solid at whatever level they're at.<h3>Striking vs. Grappling: Reps Make a Difference</h3>Here's another way to look at it. You could probably throw 100 leg kicks in a three-minute round, but how many body lock takedowns could you manage? The disparity in reps makes a world of difference in forming habits.<figure id="figure-1rvtt17dcplwpk8zhc"><img id="1rvtt17dcplwpk8zhc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dgVD4DxwKgZcjDUbXZoxRp419kFwk1bCKppVowcQcuc7vFxm1Qtc3MUH30KHTHr.png" alt="blue and white abstract painting" title="blue and white abstract 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/1dgVD4DxwKgZcjDUbXZoxRp419kFwk1bCKppVowcQcuc7vFxm1Qtc3MUH30KHTHr.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>When you have a bad habit in striking, the repetition ingrains it deeply into your muscle memory. Whether it's dropping your hand while jabbing or not moving your head off the centerline, these things stick. Bad habits in grappling, on the other hand, don’t get as many reps and hence are easier to correct.<blockquote>Imagine throwing a jab and every time you throw a jab, you drop your right hand. Over thousands of reps, this becomes second nature.</blockquote><h3>Real-World Example: My Struggles With Striking</h3>I can vouch for this from personal experience. My original boxing coach, despite showing great offensive setups, taught no defense. His style was all about coming forward and swinging, taking hits as they came. Naturally, this was a recipe for disaster for me in the long run.<figure id="figure-jhmi0qq0tolwpk9t1n"><img id="jhmi0qq0tolwpk9t1n" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/75DkDXRyUclPGz72j6P0biqmSzrUknYYVI3VnNZNNmfcAD8svUR4dkIgFpCsQxqs.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/75DkDXRyUclPGz72j6P0biqmSzrUknYYVI3VnNZNNmfcAD8svUR4dkIgFpCsQxqs.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Imagine doing thousands of reps where every time you jab, you drop your right hand. This was me. To this day, that's a bad habit I'm still working on. In one of my fights, against Dan Hooker, it cost me dearly. You can go back and watch; I got knocked out in the first round because I didn't "hold the phone"—meaning I didn't keep my defense up while throwing punches.<h3>Breaking Bad Habits: Why It Takes So Long</h3>For an average striker coming up, doing 10 rounds a day on various drills, bad habits are hard to shake off. They might do pad work, bag work, and sparring all in one session. But if these habits are incorrect, it sets them back.<figure id="figure-txm57sszmglwpkb82g"><img id="txm57sszmglwpkb82g" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2bFJEgrW13HzZRibf4U2dSqNinPxaPTJDrY02LrK9HDPbHqFTxpbsbm5v6QO4Lct.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" 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/2bFJEgrW13HzZRibf4U2dSqNinPxaPTJDrY02LrK9HDPbHqFTxpbsbm5v6QO4Lct.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>It's not uncommon for someone to practice a wrong technique for three years, only to need five or more years to fix it. And that's with serious repetition of specific drills that aim to correct those flaws.<h3>Grappling: Easier to Correct</h3>In grappling, the risk of ingraining bad habits comes from fewer reps. You simply don’t get as many shots at performing a double leg or a body lock takedown in a three-minute round as you do with striking techniques like jabs and leg kicks. This inherently makes it easier to correct.<figure id="figure-ilztgw5ynplwpkcp4b"><img id="ilztgw5ynplwpkcp4b" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1438vJQoe7j9826HWaEdTPqKGS6Jw6NRm8sUJmjUZ6EyySCvti5EoOu7lxWJS7Wg.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/1438vJQoe7j9826HWaEdTPqKGS6Jw6NRm8sUJmjUZ6EyySCvti5EoOu7lxWJS7Wg.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>The Importance of Good Coaching</h3>Throughout my career, I've had excellent grappling coaches but some terrible boxing coaches who taught virtually no defense. This made me realize how crucial it is to have someone who corrects your technique, especially in striking.Be careful when choosing a gym. Your first few years are crucial. If you're learning the wrong way, it will take double the time to fix those mistakes. Make sure your coach is diligent about correcting you.Imagine training the wrong way for two or three years—it could take you five to six years to fix it. So, take the time to find a good coach. It's crucial for your growth as a fighter.<figure id="figure-iqkqg0970flwpkdy0s"><img id="iqkqg0970flwpkdy0s" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12Fw4i0n7LihaAaHFZ1UehULQxusDy9fj6XjcGDNtp7r1OG2O7hTHv2nc4zx0KFf.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><h3>Avoiding McDojos</h3>If you're new to martial arts and on the lookout for a good gym, I recommend my book, "<a data-mce-href="Hope%20this%20helps,%20guys!%20Until%20next%20time,%20stay%20sharp,%20and%20keep%20those%20hands%20up!" href="Hope%20this%20helps,%20guys!%20Until%20next%20time,%20stay%20sharp,%20and%20keep%20those%20hands%20up!" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts School and Instructor.</a>" It's only $4.99 on Amazon and offers great advice on what to avoid.There's a lot of talk about "McDojos," not just in karate but also in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gyms. If you have dreams of competing, ensure your gym focuses on correcting technique. The right technique is paramount.<h3>Conclusion</h3>So, to all the aspiring fighters out there, always focus on technique. Whether it's striking or grappling, bad habits can set you back significantly. The first few years of your training are essential, and having a good coach to guide you can make all the difference.Let me know in the comments if there's any other topic you'd like me to cover. Have a great day, and keep training smart!If you're interested in finding the right gym, check out my book on Amazon:<a data-mce-href="Hope%20this%20helps,%20guys!%20Until%20next%20time,%20stay%20sharp,%20and%20keep%20those%20hands%20up!" href="Hope%20this%20helps,%20guys!%20Until%20next%20time,%20stay%20sharp,%20and%20keep%20those%20hands%20up!" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts School and Instructor</a>Have any questions or want me to cover a specific topic? Drop a comment below!Hope this helps, guys! Until next time, stay sharp, and keep those hands up!<figure id="figure-ividn8eyqflwpk7g3z"><iframe id="ividn8eyqflwpk7g3z" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UKY81N3dOck" 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/UKY81N3dOck?si=eONmbKMbK5JIe2lX" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UKY81N3dOck" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

Why It's Much Harder to Correct Bad Striking More Than Bad Grappling Techniques! 🥊🥋

What's up, everyone? Today, let's dive into an important topic for any kickboxing enthusiast or martial artist – avoiding foot injuries during sparring. Recently, some of my students have been experiencing leg injuries. They made common mistakes that newbies often make: kicking without setting up with their hands first. Let's break it down and discuss how you can prevent this from happening to you.<h3>The Common Mistake: Kicking Without Setting It Up</h3>One of the typical mistakes many newcomers make in kickboxing is thinking they can just throw leg or body kicks without setting them up with their hands. This often leads to those kicks being checked, resulting in injuries.<blockquote>Just think you can just leg kick people, or body kick them without setting it up with your hands. And they've been checked.</blockquote>A Real Example from My StudentsIn the last couple of weeks, a couple of my students sustained minor injuries from exactly this mistake. For instance, one student got a common shin injury because he didn't set up his kicks when we were sparring. I checked it, and it ended up hurting him.Pro Tip: Always set up your kicks with your hands to avoid getting them checked.<h3>Protective Gear: Wrestling Shoes and Taekwondo Shoes</h3>To address this problem, one useful piece of advice is to wear protective gear like wrestling shoes or Taekwondo shoes.Wrestling ShoesWrestling shoes can be a great addition to your sparring gear. They are sturdy and can help protect your feet and shins from injuries. However, they can be heavy and may weigh you down a bit.Taekwondo ShoesAlternatively, Taekwondo shoes are lighter and still provide good protection. Even if you are a Muay Thai fighter and have never trained in Taekwondo, these shoes can safeguard your feet, allowing you to throw hard kicks without worrying about injuries.<blockquote>Taekwondo shoes tend to be lighter and not as heavy. They're always a good option as well.</blockquote>Protecting Your ToesWhen I fought in the UFC, I broke my toe during sparring two training camps in a row by throwing front kicks and hitting people's elbows. If you break a toe (except for the big toe), taping it together can let you continue training.Pro Tip: Tape your broken toes together to keep training unless it's your big toe.<h3>Sparring Intensity and Frequency</h3>If you're sparring lightly, you might not need this gear. However, for those sparring hard – which I do recommend at least one day a week, especially leading up to fights – wearing protective shoes can be crucial.Hard SparringHard sparring is essential when you have fights coming up. It helps replicate the intensity and conditions of a real fight. Therefore, protecting your feet during these sessions becomes even more important.<blockquote>I do believe in some hard sparring for sure. Not all the time, but know at least when you have fights coming up, I think you should be sparring hard at least one day a week.</blockquote><h3>Learning From Experience</h3>I've learned these lessons the hard way, and I hope this advice helps you avoid unnecessary injuries and setbacks in your training. If you want to explore more about martial arts, consider checking out my book, "<a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/blHPtyx" href="https://a.co/d/blHPtyx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Martial Arts School and Instructor.</a>" It can help you find a suitable gym and become a part of the martial arts community.<h3>Conclusion</h3>In summary, always set up your kicks with your hands to prevent them from being checked, consider using wrestling or Taekwondo shoes for protection during hard sparring, and remember to tape your toes if they get injured. Taking these precautions will help you spar safely and effectively.Pro Tip: If you're new to martial arts, get my guide to help you start your martial arts journey.Thank you for reading! Leave any comments or questions about techniques or fighting subjects you'd like me to discuss. Keep training smart and stay injury-free!<figure id="figure-4bo170lwwllwpf60ju"><iframe id="4bo170lwwllwpf60ju" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GDv5boxiBjw" 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/GDv5boxiBjw?si=Wlvp2mxUk-HrArHA" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GDv5boxiBjw" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

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

YOU WILL FIGHT THE WAY YOU TRAIN! 🥊🥋

Why It's Much Harder to Correct Bad Striking More Than Ba...

How to Avoid Foot Injuries While Sparring Kickboxing! 🥊🥋😎