Mixed Martial Arts – A Fighting Art By Itself

Mixed Martial Arts or MMA is defined as a full contact sport that offers a wide variety of techniques from different styles, both stand-up and on the ground. Kick boxing, Karate, Judo, wrestling and Muay Thai are just a few of the skills utilized. MMA allows one to fight with the whole body by combining the arts of throwing, striking and joint manipulating techniques.

Muay Thai, for example, was utilized for warfare in the 1800’s. As it modernized, these fights became spectator sports for Kings in various countries. Muay Thai means “Art of Eight Limbs” and makes use of eight contact points. These include knee hits, punches, kicks and elbow strikes performed in a stand-up position. Western boxing holds no comparison with its hands and feet two point fighting.

Similar to wresting, ground fighting involves holding the opponent down through grappling moves. Getting the dominant position or preventing strikes while on the ground is clinched fighting. The only equipment needed is small gloves, open-fingered or closed, depending on the country, type of fight and weight category. Victory in MMA is determined by knockout, submission or doctor stoppage. Referees have the ability to stop a fight if one of the opponents has sustained serious bodily injury or there have been numerous warnings and fouls causing disqualification.

Mixed Martial Arts became an official sport in the US in 1992 when the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) was held. Fights that used to be no-holds-barred became a disciplined sport including restrictions to reduce the risk of bodily harm and time limits. In 2008, the UFC expanded from the United States to Canada. Pay-per-view events began drawing huge audiences making Calgary comparative to large cities such as Los Angeles or Chicago. Shows are sold out within minutes by people of all ages and lifestyles.

Individuals from all over the world travel to Calgary to attend one of the many schools prominent in MMA to learn from the best teachers. It is cautioned that one should watch a few sessions before committing. Instructors are willing to speak with potential students and enroll them in starter classes to make sure this is an adequate sport for that person. Competitive martial arts are much different than self defense. Some of the techniques may overlap, but many of the strategies are not sensible for someone to utilize in an attack type situation.

This website will provide more information about MMA:
Calgary Muay Thai
Calgary Brazilian Jiu Jitsu