Mixed martial arts is undoubtedly the fastest-growing sport in the world. Every day, more and more people are being introduced to the sport. And more and more fans are stepping into gyms for the very first time, not knowing what to expect.
That journey is happening for both junior athletes and adults alike around the globe, and entering uncharted territory can be a daunting experience. So here’s everything you need to know before stepping on the mats for the very first time.
Embrace New Experiences
It’s a nerve-wracking moment the first time you enter an MMA gym. New faces, new environment, and an array of emotions. It can feel like high school all over again.
But outside of the gritty and tough exterior of a training facility, you’re more than likely to meet some of the most friendly and disciplined people.
Everybody is there for similar reasons. Whether it’s to chase a dream of becoming a world champion, to learn how to defend themselves, or just to become a more confident person, everyone is willing to help one another, so embrace it all.
Bring Appropriate Equipment
While most MMA gyms are not expecting you to turn up with a duffel bag full of top-of-the-range training gear, you’ll do yourself many favours by having the correct equipment.
Many MMA gyms will happily lend you gloves to train in, but do you really want to stick your hands in sweaty, stinking gloves worn by strangers? Come prepared. Purchase a pair of gloves from your local sporting store.
As far as what to wear, a normal gym shirt can do the trick. But you should also acquire training shorts that suit combat sports – ideally without pockets to avoid injuring your training partners’ feet.
However, what is essential is a mouthpiece to protect your teeth. No reputable gym will allow you to spar without one. Speaking of essentials, Eryxgear’s essential line are just what the doctor ordered, and affordable for newcomers. After all, it’s your favourite fighter’s favourite fight kit.
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Fail To Prepare, Prepare To Fail Prepare
When heading to your first MMA class, dietary preparation is everything. That means eating right and staying hydrated. You won’t get past the warm-up if you’re arriving at class on the back of fish, chips and mushy peas.
To thrive in a multi-facet sport like MMA with striking, wrestling, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, especially if your body is new to it, you will need to ensure your diet takes in a high amount of protein and carbohydrates, such as chicken, rice and broccoli, while drinking at least two litres of water a day to aid recovery and keep the muscles loose.
Drilling Is Killing
Bruce Lee once said, “Fear not the man who has practised 10,000 kicks once, but the man who has practised one kick 10,000 times.”
When training in MMA, there is no substitute for reps. It isn’t always adrenaline-fueled sparring and fancy strikes; it’s about learning the right techniques safely, and drilling is a critical part of training.
Getting on the mats and practising techniques repeatedly before putting them to work enables you to hone your craft. It not only gives you the confidence to perform the hold, but it also allows the coach to provide you with any notable feedback to improve your game.
Enjoy The Process
One thing that prevents many people from taking their first steps into an MMA gym is the fear of being embarrassed, but that’s one of the biggest misconceptions.
Everybody starts somewhere, and becoming a talented fighter or MMA practitioner doesn’t happen overnight. It takes practice, day after day, week after week, no matter how tough it gets.
It might be day one for you, but you’re taking the plunge, and that’s respectable. Focus on having fun, learning something new, and keep showing up.
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