We can’t, and don’t want to, all be hard-as-nails MMA fighters. But we can take some lessons from the super fit men who step into the hexagon.
1. The Only Way to Succeed – Discipline and Hard Work
Just because you put in the hours doesn’t mean injury or your opponent won’t defeat you, but without putting in the time, you’ve got no chance. MMA Pros train anywhere from 4 to 8 hours a day and not just their MMA skills. Running, CrossFit, weightlifting – they will do whatever workout it takes to get them into fighting condition.
Related: Earn Your Muscle The Hard Way With MMA
2. Technique Is Essential
“[Gym] Technique carries over into the fighting,” says trainer and retired EFC legend Rico Hattingh. “If you look at a clean and jerk. You need to have your posture right, you need to have your timing right. If you look at a double leg takedown it’s exactly the same thing, you need to have your timing, you need to look up, keep the spine straight. That’s what I love about it.”
Related: MMA Madness: SA Champ Shows You How To Get Fit For The Fight Of Your Life
3. Find Your Outlet
Light heavyweight EFC champion Gideon ‘Juggernaut’ Drotschie admits that he used to be the type of guy who “would go drinking with his friends and always wanted a fight“. Once he started doing MMA that changed.
Nowadays he saves his skills for the hectagon and only when it’s the right time. When Norman ‘Chef’ Wessels won his match to become the number one contender for Drotschie’s belt, the champion stepped into the ring to congratulate Wessels. Instead of a handshake, the two butted heads before Wessels pushed Drotschie. Drotschie didn’t retaliate – clearly a changed man.
Related: MMA Wisdom – The Right Mix
4. Prepare For the Unexpected
Fighters training for a bout make use of the ‘shark tank’ training drill. One fighter fights for five minutes, with his opponent changing every minute. It introduces the element of surprise. You could have your opponent on his back when suddenly you’re ‘jumped’ by a fresh opponent. It’s not fair, but it prepares you for the unexpected.
