Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) combines numerous fighting styles and allows for both upright striking, and ground grappling techniques. The sport has grown rapidly in North America over the past few years – do in part to the development of the Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC). As the largest MMA promotion company in the world, UFC has been responsible for setting up many of the world’s biggest events in the sport, paving the way for a cable-television deal. The sport is becoming increasingly more popular amongst the mainstream sports fans, and has effectively surpassed boxing as the most popular combat sport in the United States. This drastic growth has lead to a strong interest in the sport and the development of classes for MMA Training. Before you begin your training, it is import to know the rules of the sport. The following are not permitted in MMA:
• Butting with the head
• Eye gouging of any kind
• Biting
• Spitting at an opponent
• Hair pulling Fish hooking
• Groin attacks of any kind
• Striking downward using he point of the elbow
• Striking the spine or back of the head
• Kicking or kneeing the head of a grounded opponent
• Stomping a grounded opponent
• Attacking an opponent on or during the break
• Attacking an opponent who is under the care of the referee
• Attacking an opponent after the bell has sounded the end of the round
Any one, or a combination of these fouls can result in disqualification. Therefore, it is imperative that anyone interested in training for MMA knows and understands these and the many other rules associated with the sport. Additionally, these rules are important to ensure safety in your MMA training as well. Regardless of whether you want to compete in MMA or just utilize it as means of getting in shape, knowing the rules and keeping you and your opponent safe is imperative in this combat sport. MMA training can be one of the most challenging and rewarding means of exercise, but it is also dangerous. Be sure to follow the rules and respect your opponent.
