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<h3>The Art of Film Study: Enhancing Your Fight Game</h3>When you're diving into the world of martial arts and combat sports, understanding the mechanics and techniques involved is crucial. One of the best ways to learn and improve is through film study. But how can you ensure that your film study efforts are effective? Let's break it down, just like you would when learning a new jiu-jitsu technique.<h3>Treat Film Study Like Drilling</h3>One common question among martial arts enthusiasts is how to get the most out of watching fight films. The answer is simple: treat it like drilling. Imagine Drilling a Jiu-Jitsu TechniqueThink back to a time when your coach taught you a new move, like an armbar. They likely emphasized where to place your hands, how to position your legs, and the importance of the grip. It's all about practicing those intricate details until they become second nature.Translate This to Film StudyFilm study should be approached with the same mindset. When you watch a UFC fighter execute a flawless submission or strike that you want to incorporate into your skill set, record it. Use your phone or any screen recording method to capture the move so you can revisit it just like you would with a jiu-jitsu drill.<h3>The Repetition Principle</h3>The secret to mastering any new move is repetition—a principle that applies just as well to film study.Record, Watch, RepeatWhen you've captured a 10-20 second clip of a technique, watch it multiple times—30 to 50 times even. This process doesn't take long for short clips but is effective in reinforcing what you're seeing.Consult with a CoachAfter absorbing the film, don't hesitate to discuss it with a more experienced coach. Ask them to break down the technique for you further. They can provide valuable insights such as hand placement or body positioning that you might have missed.<blockquote>"Always details. Make sure whoever's giving you these instructions are detail oriented."</blockquote>Technique is king, especially at higher levels of competition, such as in the UFC. Fighters who lack technique might make it to the UFC, but they don't stay long without that technical foundation.<h3>Match Techniques to Your Body Type</h3>Just like you wouldn't expect a 5'6" fighter to emulate Jon Jones, it's vital to choose fighters and techniques that complement your body type and abilities. Emulate Similar Body TypesStudying fighters with your body type can help you find what techniques work best for you. Shorter fighters often utilize different strategies compared to their taller counterparts.Consider Your Physical AttributesConsider your physical strengths and tailor your learning accordingly. A physically strong person might excel with techniques that leverage power, while a faster individual could focus on speed-based techniques.Consult with Your CoachAsk your coach for recommendations on fighters you should study based on your physical and skill set. This tailored approach ensures that your film study is not only effective but personal.<h3>Focus on Quality over Quantity</h3>It's easy to get carried away with film study and try to learn too many techniques at once. Instead, focus on a handful of moves and drill them thoroughly.Drill a Few Techniques Each WeekFocus on two or three techniques per week. Make sure your coach approves them and ensure you execute them correctly.Incorporate New Moves GraduallyOnce you have a grasp on certain techniques, you can gradually add new moves from subsequent fights into your regimen. This richer understanding of techniques will expand your fighting arsenal over time.<h3>Experience Brings Independence</h3>As you accumulate more experience and knowledge, your ability to analyze fights and techniques on your own will improve.Build Fight IQ With years of training—3, 4, or 5 years—a seasoned fighter can adopt new moves swiftly. This is because their fight IQ allows them to understand the nuances of techniques quickly and efficiently, which only comes with experience.Still Consult When NecessaryEven with experience, consulting with a coach remains invaluable. Don't just describe a technique to them; show them the actual footage. A good coach can break down what you see and explain the finer details.<h3>Conclusion: Mastery Through Methodical Study</h3>Film study is your pathway to mastering the competitive arena of combat sports. By treating it like a physical drill, focusing on techniques suited to your body type, and seeking advice from experienced coaches, you'll progress in your martial arts journey with precision and confidence. Always remember, technique is the backbone of a successful fighter’s career. So, when you venture into the world of film study, approach it with diligence and structure. You’re not just watching a fight; you’re crafting your next move. Are there more questions on film study or martial arts training you’re curious about? Drop them in the comments below. If you're new to martial arts, consider picking up my book, "<a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/03ZQTTC" href="https://a.co/d/03ZQTTC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts School</a>." <figure id="figure-689ocx5gm8m8npwvik"><iframe id="689ocx5gm8m8npwvik" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gD4y7Z59Jwc" 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/gD4y7Z59Jwc?si=z6tY4hXmdhQ0htbN" data-corners="default" data-fullWidth="false"></iframe></figure>

UNLOCK YOUR FIGHT IQ: MASTERING FILM STUDY

<figure id="figure-7db8wrddom8m8tra2"><iframe id="7db8wrddom8m8tra2" class="w-full bg-gray-100 h-80 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/vvaIcgyyfbw?si=V6t5GWZJv-wfE9ok" data-corners="default" data-fullWidth="false"></iframe></figure>Hello, fight enthusiasts and aspiring MMA fighters! Today, we're diving into the gritty, challenging world of mixed martial arts, focusing on one of its most frustrating aspects. Whether you're a seasoned fighter or just stepping into this competitive field, you've probably felt the struggle I'm about to describe. Most MMA fighters begin their journey dabbling in various martial arts such as jiu-jitsu, boxing, kickboxing, and wrestling. Sound familiar? Then you know how tough it can be to master these disciplines, especially when you're up against pure specialists in each field. <h3>The Multi-Discipline Challenge</h3>Imagine this scenario: You're committed to becoming a well-rounded fighter, so you cross-train at multiple gyms. Each gym may focus on a different skill set — a little boxing here, some Muay Thai there, and maybe jiu-jitsu and wrestling mixed in. It's an uphill battle to compete with someone who's dedicated their life to mastering one of these individual disciplines.<h3>The Boxing Dilemma</h3>Let's say you decide to focus more on boxing. You start progressing, holding your own with the local boxers during sparring sessions. Everything feels like it's finally coming together. But then, you head back to your jiu-jitsu practice only to find that your ground game has slipped. It's a constant cycle: focus on one area, and another begins to suffer. This rinse-and-repeat cycle is something that many fighters experience:<ul><li>Spend weeks improving your boxing, and you might find yourself lagging in wrestling. </li><li>Sharpen your jiu-jitsu, and suddenly your kickboxing feels rusty.</li></ul><h3>Tough Competition and Accepting Defeat</h3>Training like this can leave you feeling endlessly defeated. You'll walk into a boxing gym, get beaten up, then focus intensely on boxing, only to face the same situation in your next wrestling session. It's exasperating, especially for competitive souls who hate losing. But, in reality, being continually challenged is beneficial.<blockquote>"If you're doing jiu-jitsu two days a week and everyone else is doing it five or six days a week and you're winning... these people probably aren't going far or they just don't have the desire to compete like you do."</blockquote>The truth is, having training partners who can outmatch you in specific areas is a blessing. It means you're in the right environment to grow and improve. Living in a state of frustration is almost a rite of passage in this sport. The key is to harness that frustration as motivation to push yourself harder. <h3>Balancing Act in Training</h3>Balancing multiple martial arts is a delicate act and a continual challenge. As you immerse yourself deeper into MMA, you'll find each skill set demands equal attention. Here are some approaches to consider for managing this balance:<ol><li>Strategic Planning: Work with your coach to develop a balanced training schedule that doesn't neglect any area.</li><li>Set Goals: Define what you want to achieve in each discipline over a certain period.</li><li>Monitor Progress: Regularly assess your performance to identify strengths and weaknesses.</li></ol>Of course, coaches play a crucial role in guiding you through this balancing act. However, they can't dictate your entire path. Personal decisions about where to commit your time and energy are essential. A coach might provide advice, but ultimately, you need to trust your instincts and experiences. <h3>Hands and Takedowns: The Heart of MMA</h3>From my perspective, if you're pursuing a career in MMA, focus heavily on honing your boxing and wrestling skills. Why? Well, almost every MMA fight comes down to these two skills:<ul><li>Boxing: Most knockouts in MMA occur through punches rather than kicks or flashy maneuvers. Solid boxing skills give you an edge in nearly every bout.</li><li>Wrestling: As a wrestler, you hold the power to dictate where the fight happens. You control whether the fight stays standing or goes to the ground.</li></ul><blockquote> "Hands are always going to land before kicks... the wrestler decides where the fight goes."</blockquote>These insights are not just theoretical. They're drawn from years of observation and practice. It's tempting to chase spectacular flying knees or head kicks, but remember that consistent, grounded skills tend to dominate in the long run.<h3>Practical Takeaways for Combatants</h3>As you progress in your martial arts journey, keep learning from those who excel in areas where you strive to improve. Instead of feeling disheartened by getting outclassed, see these moments as opportunities for learning.<ul><li>Every sparring session is a chance to identify areas to work on. </li><li>View defeats not as failures but as data points outlining where you need to grow.</li></ul>For those new to martial arts, finding the right gym and trainer is crucial. I've written a comprehensive guide on selecting the best martial arts instructor for your journey. <a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/cWnouNq" href="https://a.co/d/cWnouNq" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Check it out here.</a><h3>A Word of Encouragement</h3>Managing the highs and lows of MMA training takes resilience. For competitive fighters with chips on their shoulders, remember this: Be grateful for training partners capable of challenging you. They are critical assets in your path towards mastery. If you stick with it, eventually, you'll find that your diverse skills converge. It takes time, commitment, and a humble acceptance of defeats along the way. But when those puzzle pieces finally click, the satisfaction is unparalleled. So keep pushing, keep sweating, and keep learning. Your journey in MMA will be frustrating at times — but also immensely rewarding. Leave comments below on any topics you want me to tackle next, and subscribe for more insights into the fighting world. Until next time, train hard and stay hungry!

THE MOST FRUSTRATING PART OF BEING AN MMA FIGHTER!!

Hey guys! Today, we're diving into a topic that can really elevate your fighting game: feints. If you're into mixed martial arts, or even if you're just starting out, understanding and implementing feints can give you a significant edge. I recently stumbled upon a short clip of Tom Aspinall discussing the importance of feints in his routine, and it struck a chord with me. I regret not focusing more on this aspect earlier in my career. So let's break down why feints are so essential in MMA.<h3>The Art of Feinting </h3>Feinting is an art in itself. It's all about setting up your shots, disturbing your opponent's rhythm, and creating openings. Dominick Cruz, my coach during my time on The Ultimate Fighter, was a master of this. Watching him was like a masterclass in how to effectively use feints in combat. <h3>Why Feints Matter</h3>Feints are crucial for several reasons:Setup for Strikes:<ul><li>Feints help to create openings for your punches and kicks. </li><li>They trick your opponent into reacting, giving you a chance to land clean shots.</li></ul>Defensive Strategy:<ul><li>By constantly feinting, you keep your opponent guessing and reactive. </li><li>This disrupts their offensive strategy and allows you to dictate the pace of the fight.</li></ul>Versatility:<ul><li>Feints can be executed with various body parts: shoulders, hips, feet, and even hands. </li><li>Experimenting with different types of feints can confuse your opponent, making it difficult for them to predict your next move.</li></ul><h3>Types of Feints</h3>Here's a breakdown of some common feints used in MMA:<ul><li>Shoulder Feints: Give the illusion of an incoming punch.</li><li>Foot Feints: Mimic the start of a kick to disturb your opponent's balance.</li><li>Hip Feints: Often used to deceive your opponent into anticipating a body kick.</li><li>Hand Feints: Quick movements of your hands to mislead the opponent.</li></ul><h3>Feint to Offense and Defense</h3>A good feint is not just about offense. It’s equally important for defense. When you feint effectively, you can keep your opponents on their toes, always questioning your next move. This constant guessing game tires and frustrates them, making your actual attacks even more effective. Defensive Feints A defensive feint is a proactive approach to fighting. You're not just sitting back, waiting to block or dodge strikes. Instead, you’re putting the opponent on the back foot, forcing them to react to your feints. Offense Through Defense A famous example of a defensive feint leading to offense is Kevin Randleman's fight against Mirko Cro Cop. Randleman used a level change feint to set up a devastating hook, securing a knockout victory. If you're curious, go back and watch that iconic fight. <h3>Integrating Feints into Your Routine</h3>If you're serious about improving your skills, then you need to incorporate feints into your daily practice. Here’s how you can start: Practical TipsStart Simple:<ul><li>Focus on mastering five or six basic feints first. </li><li>Practice them daily until they become second nature.</li></ul>Combine Feints with Strikes:<ul><li>For example, feint a jab to set up a right hand. </li><li>Fake a low kick before executing a flying knee.</li></ul>Study Fighters:<ul><li>Watch videos of fighters known for their feints, like Dominick Cruz and Israel Adesanya. </li><li>Analyze how they use feints to create opportunities.</li></ul>Ask for Guidance:<ul><li>Don’t hesitate to seek advice from your coach. </li><li>Bring videos and ask them to guide you in implementing these techniques.</li></ul><h3>Evolving with the Sport</h3>MMA is constantly evolving. Techniques that seemed rare or unconventional a few years ago, like calf kicks, are now mainstream. Similarly, feints are becoming an indispensable part of modern martial arts. If you're not fluent in feinting, you're likely missing out on a critical component of fighting strategy. <h3>Conclusion</h3>Feints are a crucial aspect of both offense and defense in MMA. By mastering the art of feinting, you can control the pace of the match, deceive your opponent, and create significant openings for your attacks. Whether you're a seasoned fighter or a newbie, integrating feints into your repertoire is essential. Remember, the best time to start mastering feints is now. So get practicing, keep evolving, and take your MMA skills to the next level. If you have any questions or other topics you'd like to explore, feel free to leave a comment below! Thanks, and happy training!<h3>Further Resources </h3>If you're new to martial arts or looking for guidance, check out my book, "<a data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/6RJQ9v3" href="https://a.co/d/6RJQ9v3" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Ultimate Guidance: Choosing Your Martial Arts School and Instructor</a>."&nbsp;<figure id="figure-08o961hr7m8i2cnul"><iframe id="08o961hr7m8i2cnul" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ot15tl9SyyA" 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/Ot15tl9SyyA?si=5f4zld5HcC7k5E5V" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ot15tl9SyyA" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

Why Feints Are Crucial in MMA

Fighting in the UFC or any major league demands way more than just raw, brute strength or even honed skills. There's often a question hanging in the air: "Why do some fighters, full of promise and potential, fail to make it big?" Let's dive deep into this intriguing issue. <h3>Spotting the Potential</h3>Every now and then, we encounter a fighter who seems to have it all. They're fast, strong, and incredibly athletic. But sometimes, they never reach the heights we expect them to. Sure, some folks simply aren't gifted enough—whether it's lacking the height or muscle, or simply the agility. But this discussion goes beyond physical attributes. The real question is: why do talented fighters often falter when they seem destined for greatness in high-level competitions like the UFC? <h3>The Paradox of Talent and Personal Life </h3>One vital aspect that hampers many fighters is their inability to manage their personal lives. Imagine being capable of absorbing punches in a ring, yet not being adept at weathering life's everyday challenges. This is quite a paradox that talented individuals face. No matter how skillfully they train, or even if they're doing all the right things in the gym, life outside can be turbulent. Common Personal Hurdles<ul><li>Missed Practices: Personal chaos often leads to inconsistency in training.</li><li>Stress Management: Some fighters struggle to handle everyday stresses despite their prowess in the ring.</li><li>Background Challenges: Coming from a difficult background, while challenging, shouldn't be an excuse that holds you back.</li></ul><blockquote> "Even if you can handle everything a fighter throws at you, sometimes life throws those punches harder."</blockquote><h3>Importance of Starting Young</h3>There has been a significant shift in the way fighters train today. Unlike the past, now many start at a very young age. This early start creates a competitive edge. Take, for instance, someone who began their journey at 20—like I did. Back in 2012, the UCS acceptance and success stories were vastly different. Today, fighters have often been sharpening their skills since they were kids. Changing Times<ul><li>Youth Dominance: More fighters train from childhood, making starting late difficult.</li><li>Training Duration: A person who is 28 years old may have nearly two decades of experience.</li><li>Late Bloomers and Exceptions: Rare cases of immediate success stem from extraordinary abilities or being a 'freak athlete'.</li></ul><h3>Commitment and Sacrifice</h3>For those who arrive late to the fight game, having an unwavering obsession with the sport is vital. Fighters who make it big are often those with minimalist lives outside the ring, sacrificing a large chunk of their personal lives in pursuit of glory. A Fighter's Sacrifices<ul><li>Social Sacrifice: Birthdays, holidays, and friendly outings take a backseat.</li><li>Dedication Time: Hours of training replace leisure activities.</li><li>Focus and Priority: Choosing practice over concerts or parties showcases real commitment.</li></ul>The commitment could be demanding and not everyone sees it as worth the sacrifice. This delineates those who rise in the ranks from those who peter out. <h3>Underestimating the Effort </h3>Understanding what it truly takes to be a fighter often comes as a rude awakening. From the outside, the glitz and glamour are evident, but the grind behind the scenes is where the real battle lies. Fighters often realize that the effort required far exceeds their initial expectations. Misjudging the Journey<ul><li>Effort Miscalculation: The realization that more energy and time are needed than initially thought.</li><li>Redistribution of Focus: Once aware, some channel their focus into other interests.</li><li>Varied Priorities: Prioritizing other life aspects over training can derail a promising career.</li></ul><h3>The Tough Equation of Interests </h3>Having interests beyond fighting is perfectly normal, but balancing them can be tricky. Fighters need to set clear priorities when starting martial arts later in life. Those obsessed exclusively with fighting ascend to higher levels more swiftly than others who diversify their focus.<blockquote>"If you're diving into MMA at 18, 19, or even 20, you better be fully invested if aiming to hit a high level."</blockquote>Challenges for Late Starters<ul><li>Previous Experience Gap: Competing against others who have been training since a young age.</li><li>Interest Diversion: Ensuring other passions don't overshadow the commitment to the sport.</li></ul><h3>Pro Insight</h3>Through observing numerous fighters over the years, certain patterns emerge. Some individuals are immensely talented and fit yet allow external pressures to hinder their trajectory. This imbalance of focus can significantly impact their ability to rise in the ranks. <h3>The Conclusion</h3>A fighter's journey isn't merely paved with training hours and raw potential. It demands a seamless integration of personal management, early beginnings, profound dedication, and the relentless pursuit of mastery over every other hobby or interest. The path is rigorously demanding, and those who persist against these challenges are the ones distinguishing themselves in the high-level professional arena. For those curious to learn more about starting martial arts, check out the book <a href="https://a.co/d/3vNc4Nw" data-mce-href="https://a.co/d/3vNc4Nw">The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts School and Instructor. </a>Drop any questions you might have in the comments, and here's to finding your own path in the fight game!<figure id="figure-gowericgfkm8ditkg9"><iframe id="gowericgfkm8ditkg9" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3_wDf5y6pRc" 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/3_wDf5y6pRc?si=GimdS-oDBO_0bpCJ" data-corners="default" data-fullWidth="false"></iframe></figure>

WHY FIGHTERS FAIL TO REACH THEIR FULL POTENTIAL?

man in black t-shirt and black shorts doing push up

Hey there! If you've ever wondered about how you can better defend yourself in a one-on-one situation, you're in the right place. This guide will delve into the fundamental self-defense tactics you should consider if you're in a pickle—like facing an attacker in the streets. Just a heads up, this guide isn't about weapons or gun training. That's a whole different ballgame. Let's dive into the practical, hands-on skills rooted in MMA that could be a real game-changer for you! <h3>My Background in MMA and Street Defense</h3>First, a little bit about myself—I spent nearly eight years in the UFC, ranking as a top 10 fighter. On top of that, I worked as a bouncer at several clubs for a good eight to nine years in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. It’s safe to say I’ve faced my fair share of street fights. From these experiences, I’ve gleaned some pretty useful insights on effective self-defense tactics. I’m going to break down which martial arts offer the best training for the average person and what's worth skipping.<blockquote>“For the average person that wants to know how to defend themselves in the streets, boxing is the best. Anybody who comes at you is going to be throwing hands there.”</blockquote><h3>Why Boxing Should Be Your Foundation</h3>Let's cut to the chase—boxing should be at the core of your self-defense training. Why? Because most attackers are going to come at you swinging. It's all about handling those fists flying toward your face.<ul><li>Affordable and Accessible: Boxing gyms are generally more affordable compared to MMA gyms, making them accessible for regular folks.</li><li>Effective Defense: You’ll learn to handle aggressive situations and become adept at defensive techniques.</li></ul>Essential Boxing Skills to Learn<ol><li>Basic Strikes and Combos: Acquaint yourself with jabs, hooks, and crosses. Learning these can turn the tide of a confrontation.</li><li>Defensive Maneuvers: Master slipping, bobbing, and weaving to avoid incoming blows.</li><li>Footwork: Keep moving! Learning to control distance is key to avoiding dangerous scenarios.</li></ol><h3>The Value of Greco-Roman Wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu</h3>Next up is blending your boxing skills with some Greco-Roman wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu. This combo prepares you for situations when a would-be assailant closes the distance and grabs you. Most attackers aren't going to go for complex wrestling moves. Instead, they might bear hug you or go for an upper body hold.<ul><li>Learn to Pumble: Perfect for handling upper body grabs.</li><li>Body Locks and Headlocks: Ideal for taking control in close-quarters situations.</li><li>Basic Jiu-Jitsu: Focus on a couple of sweeps and some submissions, but prioritize staying on top rather than working from the bottom.</li></ul>Recommended Techniques<ol><li>Pumbling and Clinching: Essential techniques to maintain control.</li><li>Basic Sweeps: Learn three reliable sweeps to reverse your position if you're taken down.</li><li>Submissions: Two to three effective submissions to end a confrontation swiftly if needed.</li></ol><h3>Kick Low, Strike High: The Power of Low Kicks</h3>Low kicks might just be the surprise element you need. They're incredibly effective and often unexpected in street altercations. Most people won't anticipate a well-placed leg kick, making it a strategic strike to incapacitate or disrupt your opponent.<ul><li>Effectiveness: Used correctly, a low kick can cripple an attacker's mobility.</li><li>Strategic Advantage: By integrating them with your boxing skills, you can form a well-rounded striking game.</li></ul><h3>Dutch Kickboxing: A Street Fighter's Best Friend</h3>Dutch kickboxing combines boxing with powerful kicks, making it a versatile choice for street defense.<ul><li>Hand and Leg Combinations: Learn to start with punches and end with solid kicks, making your strikes unpredictable and hard to counter.</li><li>Real-World Tested: Having trained in Holland, I can vouch for its effectiveness in street scenarios.</li></ul><h3>Building Your Training Plan</h3>I propose a comprehensive training schedule to balance these disciplines, a commitment of two to three years is realistic, ensuring you’ve got the bases covered for most self-defense situations.<ul><li>Boxing: Six months as your foundation.</li><li>Jiu-Jitsu: Complement with wrestling, focusing on upper-body techniques.</li><li>Dutch Kickboxing: Incorporate into your training for striking versatility.</li></ul>Suggested Training Schedule<ul><li>Two Days a Week: Each session lasting two hours, allowing time to diversify your skills.</li><li>Mix It Up: Balance striking with grappling to remain well-rounded.</li></ul><blockquote> “You don’t have to train 100% all the time. A consistent 60-70% effort can teach you how to handle an aggressive situation.”</blockquote><h3>Final Thoughts</h3>Self-defense is about preparedness and confidence. With a solid mix of boxing, some wrestling, and Dutch kickboxing, you’ve got the tools to handle yourself in sticky situations. Remember, the goal is not to be a fighter in the ring, but to protect yourself effectively if the need ever arises. Stay safe, train smart, and most importantly, stay confident. With these skills in your arsenal, you’re well on your way to becoming adept at defending yourself against untrained aggressors. Have any questions or want to share your own experiences? Drop a comment below!<figure id="figure-flftdd3t0pm86djv7o"><iframe id="flftdd3t0pm86djv7o" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HvfMMCpayaY" 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/HvfMMCpayaY?si=vGoJ1XZ4p9LoQkSr" data-corners="default" data-fullWidth="false"></iframe></figure>

YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SELF-DEFENSE WITH MMA!

Hey, what's up, guys? Today we're diving into a topic that gets asked a lot: who is the most athletic MMA fighter I've ever trained with? It's a question that comes up often, and while I've worked with numerous world-class boxers, kickboxers, and various martial artists from around the globe, one name stands out above the rest—Johny Hendricks. Johny Hendricks, often recognized for his achievements inside the UFC octagon, was an athlete who possessed an unparalleled level of athleticism. In today's blog post, we're going through why Johny Hendricks is at the top of my list and what made his athleticism so special. I've trained with many high-level fighters, but Johny Hendricks had a unique mix of speed, power, and technique which made him an exceptional competitor. <h3>Athletic Background</h3>Extensive Travel and Training ExperienceHaving trained in Thailand and Holland, I really got immersed in different combat sports environments, encountering various styles and techniques. Yet, when it comes to mixed martial arts, Johny Hendricks was a step above due to his physical prowess and fighting style.Training With Johny HendricksWhile I wasn't on Team Takedown—the team Johny was associated with—they were in the same city as me. My training camps often took me out of state, but whenever I was home in Texas, I had the opportunity to train alongside Johny. This camaraderie offered me firsthand experience of his impressive abilities. Johny's AthleticismJohny Hendricks was a freak athlete, and I think people often underestimated how athletic he truly was. The GSP fight showcased Johny's athletic ability, and it was no surprise that he put up such a competitive performance against Georges St-Pierre, often regarded as one of the best MMA fighters.<blockquote>“If you go back and look at the GSP fight, I guess that kind of shows how athletic he really was.”</blockquote><h3>The Essence of Fast-Twitch Muscles</h3>Sprung ActionTraining with Johny Hendricks was akin to training with someone who had springs in their feet. His ability to explode and cover ground quickly was facilitated by his fast-twitch muscle fibers. Those fibers are something many fighters wish they had. A prime example is the fight against John Fitch, where Johny used an overhand left to devastating effect.Shooting and Wrestling InfluenceHendricks' development of fast-twitch muscles can be largely attributed to his wrestling background, being a two-time D1 national champion. The countless repetitions in wrestling really honed those muscles, allowing him to deploy explosive movements that you rarely see in the octagon.Comparisons to Other FightersJohny's ability to launch attacks from a distance is reminiscent of MVP, Horaguchi, or Wonderboy, who often use karate-based techniques. Despite Johny's shorter stature, his fast-twitch muscles allowed him to execute long-reach attacks effectively, catching opponents off guard.<h3>Sparring Stories: Johny's Prime</h3>Training with Johny in his prime was a unique experience. He had abilities that made him so difficult to engage with. His speed and reactive capabilities kept many top fighters, like John Fitch, at bay, preventing them from engaging fully due to the constant threat of counter-attacks.<h3>Insights into Johny's Career</h3>Perspective on His Career DeclineSome have speculated about Johny's career decline, including notions like USADA's impact on his performance or alleged steroid use. Personally, I don't buy into these arguments. The unraveling of Team Takedown, coupled with potential burnout, seemed more significant. Being immersed in martial arts since such a young age, it's understandable how fatigue could set in.<blockquote>“I think that he's kind of was burned out from doing martial arts and wrestling and then MMA for so long, he just didn't want to do it anymore.”</blockquote>Training RegimensTowards the end of his career, Johny's training intensity noticeably decreased. A shift in focus occurred; his training sessions went from being rigorous to more relaxed routines. Often, he'd show up, spar for a few rounds via sheer natural ability without going through extensive warm-up sessions. Lack of Intense ConditioningInstead of rigorous MMA conditioning, Johny gravitated towards other pursuits like tennis. This change showed how he was sort of stepping away, and his decision against weight cutting underscored the burnout. <h3>Conclusion: Reflecting on Johny's Athletic Legacy</h3>Johny Hendricks was undoubtedly one of the most athletic and well-rounded fighters I've trained with in MMA, and reflecting on his career, there's no disputing his exceptional contribution to the sport. I hope this answers your curiosity about Johny and gives you a deeper insight into why his athleticism left such a lasting impression on those who witnessed it firsthand.<figure id="figure-u4gk0w7ktam83pwdx0"><iframe id="u4gk0w7ktam83pwdx0" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ydPgLcG_o7Q" 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/ydPgLcG_o7Q?si=Ng5jy29aXrzokdG3" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ydPgLcG_o7Q" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

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