MMA and Self Defense
Since the rise in popularity of mixed martial arts in the last several years, we've seen the rise of martial arts studios that pertain strictly to MMA (mixed martial arts) training thriving in our areas, there in turn, bringing thousands upon thousands of men, women and children enrolling to be a part of it.
As a traditional martial artist myself, with close to 34 years of training, I've seen the most traditional of studios conform to the demand of less tradition and more of the mixing of the arts to attract business, thus have increased enrollment and profit. Whatever you desire to be a part of this sport is; competition, physical fitness, self defense, MMA has continued to grow and evolve. MMA even offers on line training to fit your schedule, just as if you were taking on line classes at an educational institution, "Gracie University" for example, offers this.
MMA is on TV, not just limited to once or twice a week, but essentially you can see some type of MMA programming every day. With the UFC recently added to the FOX network, accessible to millions of households, is just one other small part to assist in its rise of popularity. The reality series “The Ultimate Fighter” has now reached out to other countries pitting some of the best up and coming MMA fighters. Now with that avenue various countries have the opportunity to reach the goal of becoming a UFC fighter. We’ve seen that not only the winners of the show receive contracts but some of the fighters that stood out that looked good in their performance get contracts as well.
In closing, as our fondness for this sport grows just as fast as the sport is growing itself, I look at the benefits that martial arts has to offer. I encourage anybody looking to take that step and become a martial artist to do so. Check out a studio in your area and see what type of programs that are offered. Talk with the instructor and see what he or she has to offer. You want to feel comfortable and know your needs and goals will be met. Discipline, perseverance and respect are still an integral part of the arts and you should be able to recognize if a particular studio emphasizes these.
