Competing in Martial Arts for the first time can feel stressful but the great news is you can prepare for it. Here at Absolute MMA in West Jordan, we’re focused on helping you accomplish your goals whether you’re a first-time fighter or have years of competition experience. We have trained people with different abilities and athletic backgrounds.
You’re interested in stepping on the mat, cage, or ring to fight in an organized competition if you’re reading this. Whether you want to compete for the first time in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), or Muay Thai, we have you covered.
Attend class consistently and be a great teammate
While this may seem like a no-brainer, sticking to a training schedule is important. Attending classes for the combat sports you’re competing in will provide you with multiple benefits. Some of those benefits include the following:
- Improve your technique and muscle memory
- Better awareness of how to move your body properly
- Opportunity to pressure test your skills during sparring
As you reap these benefits, you’ll feel more confident in your abilities. You will also have even more fun as you train for competition.
How to be a great teammate
It’s important to speak when you’re confused about the moves being covered in class. While attending class, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Always ask for help if you need guidance when working through a technique.
Another way to be a great teammate is to take care of yourself and your training partners. You can take care of yourself by showering regularly, cleaning your training gear, and communicating with your training partners. Another way to be the best teammate you can be is to keep your teammates safe during training sessions. Remember you’re not alone in your journey to be the best version of yourself!
Invest in your conditioning outside of the gym through proper nutrition and exercise
Taking care of your physical fitness outside of class is in your best interest. Below is a quick breakdown of best practices regarding nutrition and exercise.
Fuel your body with proper nutrition
Eating the right foods will not only help you feel energized but will also help you recover from tough training sessions. It’s important to eat nutritious foods to provide your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs to perform. Stick to a consistent eating schedule to help you stay satiated and feel strong.
Here are some examples of nutrient-dense foods to help you be at your best:
- Bananas: Has fiber which aids in digestion and Vitamin C which helps your body absorb iron
- Blueberries: Has antioxidants that help protect your cells
- Carrots: Has potassium and calcium which may help improve your blood pressure and overall performance
- Chicken breast: Has lean protein which supports muscle growth and repair
- Eggs: Has protein which helps with skeletal muscle health and weight management
- Garlic: Has Vitamin A and Vitamin B6 which aids with immune system function and nerve function
- Kale: Has Vitamin A and Vitamin C which will assist with immune system function, eye health, and wound healing
- Salmon: Has Omega-3 which helps prevent heart disease and joint pain
Keep in mind that the list above doesn’t cover all nutrient-dense food you could eat. The goal is to eat foods that will help you feel energized, satisfied, and at your best.
Achieve peak physical conditioning with exercise
Investing in your strength training and conditioning will help you be in shape and prevent injuries. As you get stronger and improve your cardio, you’ll be able to get more out of your training sessions at Absolute MMA. You’ll feel more confident as you deal with tough workouts.
Here are some different exercises you can do to improve your overall fitness for combat sports:
- Assault bike: Build your overall cardio and lung capacity
- Burpees: Engage and strengthen your entire body
- Distance running: Improve your breathing and heart rate
- Jump rope: Improve your cardio, footwork, and rhythm
- Kettlebell swings: Strengthen your core and cardio
- Lunges: Build your leg strength and improve your mobility
- Pushups: Strengthen your upper body and core
- Situps: Strengthen your core
- Sprints: Improve explosiveness
It’s important to make conditioning a part of your workout routine. Doing so will strengthen your body and help you stay healthy.
Intentionally set aside time for rest and recovery
There are a handful of major benefits from rest and recovery. You’re able to allow your body to heal and repair itself. With proper sleep, your brain can remember and process what you learn in class. Another benefit to rest and recovery is you’re able to stabilize your emotions and stay focused.
How to make rest and recovery a part of your schedule
It’s tough to heal and recoup your energy as you maintain a busy schedule. Here are some tips to make that happen:
- Establish your sleep schedule and stick to it: A disciplined sleep schedule pays dividends throughout your time training. Give yourself enough time to get ample sleep every night. Even on the weekends.
- Schedule time for mental breaks during the week: You don’t need to just rest your body. You also need to rest your mind which helps your nervous system calm down. A mental break can be accomplished by doing other hobbies you enjoy. This can include activities like puzzles, drawing, playing video games, or reading a book.
- Invest time in active recovery: When you’re not in the gym, do active recovery like walking, swimming, or a rowing machine. This can be done at about 30-40% intensity. After you’re done with these lower-intensity exercises, take time to stretch. You can also do foam rolling or use a therapeutic massage gun. Doing these things will help you increase blood flow to all areas of your body.
Incorporating the tips above will empower you in your journey to being the best fighter you can be. You’ll feel confident and strong because of your investment in your rest and recovery.
Start your journey as an active fighter today!
We’re here to help you accomplish your goals and dreams in combat sports! Our Absolute MMA is focused on training for your first martial arts competition. You can begin your journey today by signing up for our free one-week trial here: https://absolutemma.com/free-trial/