Picking the Best Shin Guards for MMA and Muay Thai

shin strike against thai pads with shin guards on

After gloves and hand-wraps, shin guards are the most important piece of protective gear for MMA and Muay Thai fighters.

You use these to protect your shins, ankles, and feet during training. In sparring you’ll also be using them to protect your partner. So it’s important to pick a pair that are right for your needs. Continue reading “Picking the Best Shin Guards for MMA and Muay Thai”

Interval Training for Boxing and MMA

interval training bag work with free-standing heavy bag

High intensity interval training (also known as HIIT) is perfect for boxers, MMA fighters, and other fight sport athletes. 

Interval training can help fighters increase power and improve endurance. In addition, HIIT routines mirror the pace of a typical bout by incorporating multiple intensity levels over the course of the workout.

For fighters looking to give themselves an edge over their opponents, or just a way to add some variety to their training routines, consider HIIT and other interval training options. Continue reading “Interval Training for Boxing and MMA”

8 Tips to Help you Succeed as an MMA Fighter

The octagon - where MMA fighters dream of victory

To say the popularity of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has skyrocketed since UFC’s first event in November of 1993 would be an understatement. The UFC was valued at about $4 billion in 2016. It now consistently draws more pay-per-view buys than boxing and a comparable number to the WWE.

The popularity of the sport has inspired many people to start learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in hopes of one day stepping into the Octagon. But before you set your sights on becoming a great MMA fighter like Conor McGregor or Demetrious Johnson, let’s consider what it takes to get there. Follow these eight tips to becoming a successful MMA fighter to give yourself a shot at the glory. Be warned though—you will need to put in a LOT of hard work. Continue reading “8 Tips to Help you Succeed as an MMA Fighter”

Why Hand Wraps Are Crucial for Boxers

hand wearing ringside handwraps

Boxers cannot afford to train or compete without quality boxing gloves or hand wraps. In boxing, your hands will endure repeated impacts with other objects (heavy bags and opponents being the most common). As you train, your skill level and technique will improve. With better technique your punching power will increase. Sounds great, right? But we have to remember two things — your hands! Generally, the stronger your punches become, the greater the risk of injuring your hands. Learning how to punch properly—including clenching your fists firmly on impact—can mitigate the risk to a certain extent. However, your hands are composed of flesh and bone and need to be protected from repetitive impacts. While boxing gloves are the most obvious method of protection, hand wraps are just as important. Let’s take a deeper look at why hand wraps are so important to boxers. Continue reading “Why Hand Wraps Are Crucial for Boxers”

Expert’s Guide to Choosing the Best MMA Gear

Overhead view of the MMA ring known as the Octagon

Looking to maximize your mixed martial arts potential? A great coach, superior training, and the the best MMA gear are your tickets to the top of the ladder.

We’ve helped you find a coach. And we’ve shown you some of the top training techniques. Now we’ll help you pick the best MMA gear for training and competition.
Continue reading “Expert’s Guide to Choosing the Best MMA Gear”

MMA Gear for Beginners: 4 Must-Have Items

The mma championship ring. You'll need the right MMA gear to get here.

Mixed martial arts is not for the faint of heart. The sports can be tough, and brutal at times. If you’re keen on training and potentially competing in these sports, you should be properly prepared. With the right MMA gear, you can train safe, allowing you to give 100% when it’s time for the actual fight.
Continue reading “MMA Gear for Beginners: 4 Must-Have Items”