Mixed Martial Arts Banner
Mixed Martial Arts Icon

Mixed Martial Arts

Mixed martial arts (MMA) is a full-contact combat sport that allows the use of both striking and grappling techniques, both standing and on the ground, from a variety of other combat sports and martial arts.

See Also:
Boxing, Ju-Jitsu, Judo, Karate, Wrestling

An Overview of Mixed Martial Arts

MMA core consists of boxing, as well as kick boxing and muaythai (thai boxing), wrestling (free style and Greco-roman), grappling (Brazilian jiu-jutsu) and judo.

MMA is a sport designed for sparring and competition. The ambition is to attain the highest athletic level possible, with as few technical limitations as possible, while still ensuring a low level of risk for the practitioners. Within eastern as well as western martial arts all practitioners are fostered in the spirit of respect, humility and fair play, a value base which MMA shares given that it sprung from both these traditions.

An MMA athlete needs to be well rounded in the three main elements of combat; standing, ground and the transition in between them, and master a large number of techniques of various kinds. Prominent athletes have often had a very successful career in other sports before starting to train and compete in MMA.

Benefits

  • Improves cardiovascular fitness
  • Improves reflexes
  • Increases self-confidence
  • Helps with weight loss and muscle toning

Involvement

Use local activity finders or try and identify if a local/regional facility offers this activity. It is also worth looking at the National Governing Body website for opportunities.

Adaptations and Equipment

To take part in competitive MMA you will need protective gloves and suitable clothing

Facts

The first form of competitive MMA was called "Pankration" and it was introduced in 648 B.C during the Olympic Games

Find Mixed Martial Arts Clubs/Groups Near You

Use the search below to find local organisations near you.

Mixed Martial Arts

Force & Leisure Ltd

We are a reality based self defence club, training in unarmed combat and free style Ju-jitsu.

Shi Kon Martial Arts

Shi Kon Martial Arts

Shi Kon Martial Arts was established in 1988 and is based in Medway and has a membership of around 300 people.

Classes A2Z

Classes A2Z

Choose from thousands of top local classes and courses throughout the UK! Academic Language Tutoring Courses, Dance, Martial Arts, Keep Fit, Yoga, Driving Lessons much more! Read reviews, access clear pricing and receive certificates for your successes!