Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a combat sport based on full-body fighting techniques such as grappling, striking, ground fighting, etc.
MMA is known to have its roots in combat sports like wrestling, boxing, jujitsu, Muay Thai, and judo – but it wasn’t popularly practised until the TV series ‘UFC 1’ broadcast. Over the years, MMA has gained popularity as a controlled combat sport practised and broadcasted as a hobby and entertainment. But despite its demand in the entertainment industry, many people pursue MMA training for physical and mental improvement and challenge.
However, to properly train in MMA, you must acquire the correct gym equipment to help target and efficiently resolve your weak points and develop strength. This article will walk you through different MMA training equipment, such as punching bags, protective pads, and dummies. Read on!
MMA Training Equipment
1. Punch Bags
Punching bags are the most important equipment for MMA training, so you must carefully consider the quality and durability of the product before purchasing. Look for sturdy punch bags that can handle powerful punches and kicks. Here are some types of punching bags you’ll need:
a) Training Bags
These are the most common type of punching bag trainees use to practise their kicks and punches in the gym. Most gyms and boxing training centres have such punching bags, so a product like Viking Tear Drop Punching Bag is a great start!
b) Freestanding Punching Bags
Unlike traditional punching bags hooked onto the ceiling for leverage and good form, freestanding ones need not be mounted. This is an excellent advantage for people who don’t want to drill a hole in their ceiling, especially if you have a fancy one with light fixtures. However, this type can be a little expensive.
c) Maize Punch Bags
If your home or commercial gym has less floor space, consider using maize punch bags since they are quite compact. Maize punch bags are also known for being great for defence practice. If this sounds right, check out Viking Maze Leather Punching Bag.
d) Angled And UpperCut Bags
These punching bags have a unique shape that helps you sharpen specific combat skills. Using an angled or uppercut bag can train you to land high-brow punches to the chin and other blind spots, such as the solar plexus. An angled uppercut bag like the Viking Angle Leather Uppercut Punching Bag is quite popular among MMA enthusiasts.
e) Accessories
Besides the punching bags, you must purchase accessories like wall brackets, ceiling hooks, chains, etc., to secure them during the installation process.
2. Equipment For Coaching
If you own an MMA club or coaching centre, it’s essential to have coaching equipment to protect the trainees and the coach. The most common types of protective gear which are used to withstand the force of kicks and punches are:
a) Focus Mitts
Most often used for sparring, it helps the trainee increase their focus while developing various punching combinations and defensive tricks such as bobbing, slipping, and weaving. During this sparring practice, the focus mitts allow the trainer to correct the trainee’s wrong moves in real-time.
Additionally, these durable and thick gloves efficiently absorb the force of even the hardest kicks and punches, thus, protecting the coach from their full effect. Focus mitts like Shinobi Carbon Focus Pads are non-negotiable in MMA training and coaching scenarios.
b) Thai Pads
Commonly used by coaches, Thai pads offer complete protection from most martial arts techniques, making coaches feel safe and comfortable while training the members. With proper learning and awareness, even amateurs can help trainees practise with Thai pads.
However, while purchasing Thai pads, look for lightweight ones with curved surface since it helps absorb the shock faster. The Viking Legacy Thai Pads is one such product.
c) Kicking Shields
If you want to enhance the speed and technique of your kicks, using kick shields while training is a good idea. Kicking shields with a concave design and high-density foam for increased shock absorption, like the Viking Kick Shield, will help you optimise your MMA kicks!
3. Training Dummies
With their real-life size and firmness, dummies are reliable equipment for training full-body strikes and grappling. Throwing or grappling dummies help you learn transitions from step and switch, perfect strikes, or pop-ups, and they are also useful for mat-based striking drills.
Unlike a traditional wooden dummy used in martial arts to improve strength and tenacity, imitation leather dummies are particularly helpful in mastering grappling, a crucial part of MMA. Trainees can easily use this equipment to practise their ground strikes and drills without worrying about the risk of hurting another person. After all, dummies are much like punching bags – made from well-stitched imitation leather, durable, and easy to clean.
Lightweight and flexible dummies like the Fairtex Maddox Grappling Dummy can help boxers, MMA professionals, and even Muay Thai specialists to gain mastery over various moves in their respective fields. Some other commonly practised strikes using grappling dummies are arm choke, elbowing, anaconda choke, darce choke, guillotine, etc.
Getting The Most Out Of Your Martial Arts Training
Mastering MMA is challenging, given its versatile nature and multiple combat techniques. But with the proper training, equipment, diligence, and practice, you can gain impressive strength and resilience. Remember that training and practice largely depends on the equipment you’ll be using, so it’s important to check its quality, durability, and aftercare methods before purchasing.
MMA Factory is a one-stop shopping platform that offers a wide range of MMA training gear, equipment, merchandise, and clothing at a fair price. From training apparel, shoes, and bags to gloves, mitts, dummies, and punching bags – we have them delivered to your doorstep throughout Australia!
