The weight loss industry is growing, everyone wants to get down to a size 0 and wants the results now. MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) is also growing massively, whilst the UFC is taking over the world of combative sport. The athlete’s within MMA seem to all be consistently ripped, with six packs and cannon sized arms to boot. So where am I going with this? We too can follow in the footsteps of mixed martial to attain the the hard, lean body we all desire.
Martial Arts are an excellent form of excersie for weight loss, and being lean and fit sure does help in fighting or martial arts. So, what are the most popular forms of martial arts and how can they help when getting fit, and losing weight?
Muay Thai
My personal favourite – Muay Thai is a total body workout. Punches, kicks, grappling, gives the entire body and core a massive workout, all whilst keeping an rapid pace that shreds calories and fat like nothing else, and is considered to be the king of stand up combat by many in the world of MMA. Muay Thai is good for muscular endurance and fat loss.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
BJJ is more leverage based and the pace can vary depending on the class or training partner. most beign BJJ trying to muscle through most of the techniques (to no end, when grappling and experienced practitioner), leaving you drained, with muscles aching after the first few sessions. After some experience, BJJ is more of a relaxed sport, developing excellent core strength and flexibility. BJJ is a different type of fitness to Muay Thai, with most movements being long, securing holds as opposed to rapid movements (kicks, punches etc), with a few exceptions.
Karate
Depending on what style of Karate you practice, effects the fitness and weight loss you can expect. Many karate clubs are quite fierce with their fitness and promote a ‘never say die’ attitude which helps develop confidence and disipline. Most karate clubs have hard classes with fitness routines and circuits mixed amongst their technique training. Similar to Muay Thai, many clubs practice sparring and hard pad rounds, getting an excellentworkout that shreds fat.
For more indepth info on fitness and conidtioning training, check out the ‘Ultimate MMA Strength’ E-book by Eric Wong. Eric specializes in training professional MMA fighters, helping them achieve levels of strength and conditioning that they never thought was possible. His program is based on science and practical application, as he has helped fighters get ready for title fights, debuts, and international grappling tournaments. He currently trains fighters in Hamilton, Ontario, including Jeff Joslin, Ray Penny, Rory McDonell, Jack Szatko, and others.
Check out this video from Godsmack’s latest album, with some really motivational MMA training & fight footage.
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