What is Mixed Martial Arts and How Can You Learn It?

No combat sport has significantly impacted today's modern world more than Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).

With the success and growth of UFC and shows like The Ultimate Fighter, these athletes are becoming more and more like celebrities- so it's no surprise it's quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing sports in the world.

But What is Mixed Martial Arts?

At its core, MMA is a full-contact combat sport that incorporates various disciplines of martial arts to create a unique fighting style that resonates and piques the interest of many die hard fans. 

The primary objective is to defeat the opponent through knockouts, submissions or points based on the judge's scores.

If you've ever been curious about MMA and reap its benefits, read on to get a comprehensive low-down. 

Unpacking the World of MMA

Disciplines within MMA

The defining feature that makes Mixed Martial Arts stand out against other fighting disciplines is that it blends various martial arts into one form of style – hence where mixed comes from. The most common martial arts styles that can be found within MMA include:

• Boxing – Primarily focused on punches and footwork
• Wrestling – Ground fighting with an emphasis on submission holds
• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu – Known for its striking techniques, involving elbows and knees.
• Muay Thai/Kickboxing – Focuses on grappling techniques, throws, and takedowns.

In recent years, the use of Wing Chun techniques by MMA fighters have also become more prevalent. Generally, an MMA fighter will have built a foundation in one sport and then transition to the other forms as they merge the strengths of various fighting styles.

This combination of teachings creates their personalised fighting style – a signature that makes them stand out in this highly competitive sport.

Rules and regulations of MMA 

With the incorporation of various fighting styles, you'd think there are few to no limitations when it comes to the sport – which was the case in the early days of mixed martial arts.

However, to ensure the fighter's safety and fair competition, a consistent set of rules was coined the "Unified Rules of MMA", which considers a 10-Point Must System whereby judges will evaluate and determine the winner based on effective striking, grappling, aggression and control of the ring. 

This guideline also discusses traditional rule sets that consider weight classes, legal techniques, and foul moves.

Physical Benefits of Learning MMA

Promotes weight loss and fitness

With the fundamental principle of using your whole body when striking or grappling, it's no surprise that your entire body will feel its adverse effects. This intense activity can be equivalent to both a cardio and strength training workout, so you'll be sure to feel a sweat and shed some weight as you continue with MMA training. 

Increase in Overall Strength

In MMA, a practical training regime will usually incorporate bodyweight and weightlifting exercises, resulting in increased strength development.

In particular, an improvement in functional strength becomes noticeable, which is essential as it allows you to perform everyday activities efficiently.

Psychological Benefits of Learning MMA 

Improves Confidence

MMA training consistently challenges individuals to push past their physical and mental boundaries, fostering an environment where achievements are celebrated. 

As you refine the intricate styles within the sport, you'll build confidence in yourself and your natural abilities, leading to a profound sense of accomplishment and pride.

Improves Focus and Concentration

In combat sports, sharpening your hand and eye coordination takes considerable time and effort. This is particularly important with MMA, as you need your strikes, jabs, and takedowns to flow smoothly when engaging with your opponent.

As you continually learn the fundamentals of each fighting style with each training, your concentration and coordination will develop as timing, distance, and defence become imperative to the sport.

How to Learn Mixed Martial Arts - Finding the Right Gym

If the world of MMA has piqued your interest, finding the right gym is your next starting point.

Despite the stigma and controversy that some may label as a 'violent' sport, it's important to remember that MMA, like any other sport, is grounded in discipline, technique, and safety, with any negative connotations primarily coming from misinterpretations and misunderstandings.

MMA training offers a safe and enriching environment with the right instructor, equipment, and regimen. There’s a reason why MMA gyms and training schools have seen a dramatic rise in recent years – not only does it promote a form of total body training and an empowering tool for self-defence, it also fosters a sense of accomplishment and a heightened awareness of one's own capabilities.

So, if you see the journey to discovery and personal growth aligning with the values of mixed martial arts, then selecting the right gym is the next step to conquer. 

But How Do I Know Which Gym is Right for Me?

As MMA can be classified as a multidisciplinary sport, being in an environment that offers a range of fighting styles means you'd have the golden opportunity to explore the different techniques and approaches of fighting more seamlessly.

At UMF Academy, we are proud to offer a wide range of classes led by martial arts veterans from the ground and grapple brilliance of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to the potent and striking-dominated art of Muay Thai Kickboxing.

But deeply embedded within each training philosophy, we believe in the overall holistic benefits of MMA not only by the pursuit of mastery and excellence through combat skills - but also by perfecting your general character so that you'll be able to evolve into a version of yourself steeped in discipline, respect, and resilience.