MMA (Multiple Martial Arts) is a full-contact combat sport that pits fighters of different martial arts against one another. It has been around since ancient Greece.
MMA fighters practice various fighting styles to counter their opponents’ moves. They may draw inspiration from boxing, judo, tae kwon do, wrestling or other martial arts disciplines.
Definition
Mixed martial arts (MMA), commonly referred to as MMA, is a type of full contact combat sport combining techniques from multiple martial arts such as boxing, jiu-jitsu, judo and wrestling.
In MMA melbourne, fighters use striking (such as kicks and knee strikes) and grappling techniques like clinch holds, pinning holds, submissions, sweeps, throws, and takedowns. MMA competitors typically cross-train in various styles to counter their opponents’ techniques.
When it comes to training, MMA athletes need a high level of aerobic fitness, flexibility, power and muscle strength. Furthermore, they must be able to sustain focus for extended periods of time while working hard against an opponent who is also training for competition in MMA.
MMA fighters employ strategies when facing off against their opponent that may involve physical strength, technique and coaching. Coaches often help fighters analyze the strengths and weaknesses of their adversary before the fight begins; this information allows them to create a “game plan” that will enable them to secure victory in the match.
Origins
MMA (mixed martial arts) is a global phenomenon that brings together various martial arts to fight. It’s also known as no-holds-barred fighting, cage fighting and vale tudo (Portuguese for “anything goes”).
It is uncertain when exactly mixed martial arts began, but it seems likely that combat techniques have been tested against one another since antiquity.
Greek Pankration, first documented in 648 BC, was the first full contact combat competition with few rules. It employed boxing, wrestling and grappling as means of victory.
As hand-to-hand combat spread around the world, it became common for fighters of opposing arts to engage in mixed style battles for supremacy. These encounters, known as blended style rivalries, took place worldwide for several decades and spurred fighters on to study any martial art that might give them an edge during battle.
Rules
Fighting in MMA follows certain regulations, such as a maximum number of rounds and scoring by three judges. The winner of each round is awarded 10 points, the loser 9 points, and if there is a draw both fighters are given 8 points each.
Competitions must take place within either a ring or fenced area, which must be round with at least six sides; cages should have an octagon shape.
In either case, fighters are not permitted to grab onto the fence or ropes as this could lead to entangled limbs and injury.
Slashing or kicking an opponent is prohibited and could lead to serious injuries to their back of head, neck or spine. Furthermore, head butting, gouging (thrusting a finger or thumb into an opponent’s eye), biting or pulling hair are all strictly forbidden actions.
Fights
Mixed martial arts (MMA) is a full-contact combat sport that draws from multiple martial arts. It has its roots in ancient Greece, where pankration (boxing/wrestling combo) was practiced.
Eventually, this style of fighting evolved into what is now commonly known as Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). Fighters typically train in a combination of three distinct disciplines: amateur wrestling (focusing on clinches and takedowns), submission wrestling, and kickboxing.
MMA fighting differs from traditional combat in that it continues until one of the fighters either loses consciousness, concedes defeat or is knocked unconscious. To protect fighters’ health, several rules have been put in place such as prohibiting attacks to the groin area, kidneys and trachea.
