Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is an exciting and fast growing sport. MMA fighters are one of the most conditioned and in shape athletes with their 6 pack abs and low body fat percentages. A Mixed Martial Artist goes through intense strength and conditioning programs to be able to compete at a high level for 3- 5 minute rounds and 5- 5 minute rounds in a championship fight.
So you may be thinking, "How does all this benefit me, an everyday working person?" MMA Conditioning has many health benefits for the everyday working person. In this article, I will give you 6 reasons to include MMA Conditioning in your workout program.
1.) Endurance
One of the main goals in MMA Conditioning is the increase in Stamina and Endurance through Cardio training. A mixed Martial Artist has to have great cardio and endurance to last those long 5 minute rounds. Cardio is great for the heart, lungs, and the working systems in the body. This type of training is also great for lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, fat burning, Stamina, Energy and Endurance for those long physical work days. Researchers at Swinburne University in Melbourne, Australia did a study on 40 employees and found that, cardio increased their brain function, alertness, energy levels, job productivity and their anger and stress decreased.
2.) Strength
Strength training is another part of MMA Conditioning. The workouts involve functional exercises which are movements performed in MMA and everyday activities such as lifting and picking up things, climbing, pulling, pushing, etc. A MMA Fighter has to also have great core strength just like an everyday individual. Having great core strength prevents back injuries and is important in total body movements. When a person has lower back problems and they see their doctor, 9 times out of 10, the doctor tells them they have a weak core.
3.) Balance
How long can you stand on one leg? Do you have problems standing up and putting on your socks or shoes without falling over? Balance is very important in a MMA fight and everyday life. There will be times you are on one leg or have to balance yourself on something. MMA Conditioning drills are great for increasing balance.
4.) Flexibility
Flexibility is very important in everyday activities, whether you are trying to escape a submission move in the ring or reaching up on the top shelf to grab that folder your boss has been asking for. Pulling a muscle can have you limping around the workplace for weeks.
5.) Self-Defense
MMA Conditioning is a sports specific program which focuses mainly on workouts that mimic fighting movements and increase performance. A MMA Conditioning coach can teach you basic self-defense drills that is great for cardio and muscle endurance but also can be used in a tough situation.
6.) Confidence
Completing intense physical activities and seeing the results gives you the confidence to focus and complete any task. It shows you that you can accomplish anything if you put your mind to it. You also have the confidence to face obstacles in your life without giving up and backing down.
As you can see, there are many health benefits for the everyday person with MMA Conditioning. I just went over 6 of them but there are plenty more. Next time you put together your workout programs, checkout http://www.youtube.com/TrainCertified to see videos on some MMA Conditioning for fitness ideas and follow me on twitter @TrainCertified for more tips.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Syncere_Ashcraft
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6993598
