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Your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey begins with a wide variety of obstacles and challenges. As it’s a combat sport that is highly competitive, you will face hardship as you progress as a BJJ practitioner. Hindrances in your journey include:

  • Time Commitment

  • Goal Management

  • Gear Maintenance

  • Injuries

  • Loss of Motivation

Continue reading to learn all about the technical challenges you face when training for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and also how to build the mental resilience to overcome them.

biggest challenges in bjj

Some of the Biggest Challenges to training BJJ

BJJ is simple, yet hard. Much like the life we live. It is common knowledge that spending 10 years on something will result in a good outcome, life or BJJ, that principle holds true and is easy to contextualize. The hard part is actually showing up each day and putting forth the effort to see out what you start.

Many people start their BJJ journey with a zealous attitude, determined to reach the coveted black belt but so few, at the end of the day, actually accomplish this… why is that? The following paragraphs may explain some of the reasons.

Time Commitment

Time commitment is definitely one of the biggest challenges when it comes to training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This is because this Martial art requires consistent practice and strong dedication to truly progress and improve.

Sure, you could just show up to your classes a couple of times a week and follow a training schedule to make some decent progress.

But if you plan on competing and building a career, you must invest time in drilling techniques, attend open mats, and study the art outside of the gym.

Balancing work, school, family, and other responsibilities can make training regularly tough. The key is finding a schedule that works for you and helps you prioritize your training. This might mean sacrificing some leisure time, but the rewards of BJJ make it all worthwhile.

Ask anyone who actually hits the goal of Black belt if they would trade it for anything in the world. Money, fame, whatever you choose, it is not worth the weight of getting to this point.

biggest challenges in bjj

Understand your Goals

When you get into a combat sport, you must understand and decide what your goals are. This is something I personally struggled with in the early stages. I come from a background of athletics and felt this overwhelming pressure (in my own head) to compete and be a world champion but in reality, this all just lived in my head. I am a hobbyist, through and through. I train about 4 -5 times per week and enjoy the challenges that come with BJJ and the problem-solving aspects that stimulate my mind.

Most of the time, interested people either want to lose weight and build muscle, and some want to compete and build a BJJ career. Deciding what your goals are for yourself and owning them can be a tough thing for people.

BJJ is extremely demanding both physically and mentally. It challenges your muscles alongside your cardio making it an effective calorie-burning workout. Just a few BJJ workouts a week can help you build exceptional physical strength within months.

Some of you may want to get into BJJ so you can build a career out of it by participating in competitions and tournaments. I probably don’t have to tell a hell-bent competitor this but that path looks different than something that your peers may be going on. Again, identify your goals early and stick to your guns.

Maintaining your Gear

As a BJJ practitioner, you will need to get some basic gear. This can include your BJJ Gi, rash guards, knee pads, etc. This gear can often be quite expensive, which is why maintaining it is super important. Taking into consideration how rough you use them and how to wash them will help reduce wear and tear.

biggest challenges in bjj

Injuries Sustained When Training or Competing

When you begin a combat sport, you are essentially taking a big risk, no matter how careful you are, you can still get injured in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. However, there are still many precautions you can take to prevent injuries.

Injuries suck. They mess with your head (if they are bad enough), they linger for longer than you want them to, and can just be flat-out demoralizing. Here at Grapplers Graveyard we try to always keep in mind that athletes’ bodies are their most important investment, meaning, you should be actively trying supplements to help recovery, making sure you are getting proper rest, and finding solutions that help rehab injuries that keep you off the mats.

Here are some tips to stay injury-free:

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Comparison Being the Thief of Joy

In life, especially in sports, there is always a bigger fish.

It might be someone with better genetics or is fortunate enough to afford better equipment and coaches. This is why comparison is the thief of joy. When you begin a hobby, whether it is painting, golf, or Brazilian jiu-jitsu, you should understand that the only person you should compete with is the person you were the previous day.

In life, no matter the venture, you should always strive for Kaizen, meaning to make consistent little improvements. You should focus on being the best version of yourself, enjoy your progress, and keep working hard and putting the hours in to get better, day by day.

Sticking to a Schedule

Consistency is key, regardless of the venture you take. In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, sticking to a program and really building a lifestyle around your practice is extremely important, this is because a good schedule will build momentum leading toward the progress that you want to actually see.

Discipline and mental resilience will help you fix any physical limitations, all that you need to do is stay consistent and stick and follow a good program. Understand that in a 6-8-week program, you should not get demotivated when you do not see improvements in the third or fourth week. Instead, trust your coach, seek guidance, and complete the program.

Fear of Failing

Failure is inevitable, without it, you will never be able to truly enjoy success.

Failing against your training partners, getting injured, or losing an important match is all part of the journey to the top. Most elite-level BJJ practitioners have faced failure in one place or another. They all have stories about the obstacles and challenges they faced.

Remember, when you treat failure or a loss as a lesson, you set realistic and achievable goals. Learn to find the good in bad situations, find out where you lacked, fix it, and come back stronger.

Loss of Motivation

It is common for athletes to sometimes lose motivation in the combat sport they compete in. This could be for a variety of reasons, not making progress or losing an important fight can be two of them. In this case, BJJ practitioners must understand that progress is not always linear, and it is certainly not exponential.

As you get better, your progress and newbie gains will slow down, at this point, your discipline will come into play. Motivation means to train hard when you feel like it, discipline means to train hard regardless of how you feel.

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Ways to Combat These Challenges

Take Time Off When Needed

In Brazilian jiu-jitsu and other Martial arts, you will often find yourself facing a burnout period.

This is when you’ve been at the top of your training schedule and haven’t been slacking off in any area for a while. Eventually, one weekly rest day will not be enough, you will require a de-load period where you train in a lower intensity, or you can take a week off to recover fully.

Taking a few days off will help you recover physically and mentally completely. Most fighters and athletes tone down their training a few weeks before a competition so they can be at their A-game.

Train for Longevity

Martial arts are all about longevity, especially Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. You begin your journey as a white belt, and with some practice, you become a blue belt, then a purple belt, then a brown belt, and so on. This shows that there is no overnight solution to becoming an excellent BJJ fighter.

You have to put in effort for years to become good at this martial art.

The sooner you begin training for longevity, the quicker you will overcome challenges and make some serious progress.

Find Good Training Partners That Push You

Finding good training partners is an essential part of your BJJ training.

You must find aspiring athletes that push you to become better, and help you overcome challenges on the mats and in real life. Or, even if your teammates do not want to compete at high levels, just make sure that you are training with the guys that give you good looks and challenge you to become a better problem solver on the mats.

When low on motivation, it is always a good idea to have some gym bros motivate you to train harder.

It is also a great way to push yourself, having a healthy competition with someone your own level makes you want to strive harder and make the extra effort to overtake them.

Set Your Goals [And Stick to Them]

Setting realistic goals is one of the most important parts of getting into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, what’s even more important is that you stick to those goals. It is common for beginners to not only set unrealistic goals but also to not make the effort needed to fulfill them.

This is why you must have goals that are doable, and also make the effort needed to make your dreams a reality.

Build Mental Strength

To top it all off, the best way to overcome challenges and walk through hell, is to build mental fortitude. When your mindset is impenetrable, nothing can get into your head, no loss will affect you, no obstacle will seem hard, and no goal will seem impossible.

When you have the right mindset, you will learn that nothing matters more than just enjoying the sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Embrace losses as areas to work on, and your mind will have just as much brute strength as your physical body.

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Getting into boxing and Mixed Martial Arts, you can’t help but notice the faces of the fighters glistening before they enter the boxing ring or octagon. But why do they do it?

Continue reading to learn about why do fighters apply Vaseline on their faces before a fight, and what benefits does this practice behold.

why do boxers put vaseline on face

Why Do Boxers Put Vaseline on Their Face? Simple: Protection

Boxers use vaseline to prevent cuts and bruises on their face. It reduces the amount of friction between the fighter’s face and the glove, allowing it to slide off without causing a cut.

In boxing, it is common for the fighter’s face to get extremely bruised up and end up with deep cuts on their face. Fights are often stopped on the referee’s discretion if there too significant of a cut or swollen area.

However, even if a boxer chooses to continue fighting, instead of taking a knee, their opponent may have an unfair advantage and cause further damage. In larger promotions and organizations, the fighter’s health is of the utmost priority, this is why the use of vaseline is permitted.

However, you should not confuse the fact that being punched while having Vaseline on your face is still just as painful as it would be without it. It is essentially just a safety procedure to prevent bleeding and also speed up the healing process for small cuts from previous rounds.

why do boxers put vaseline on face

Here’s How Vaseline Helps Protect a Fighter’s Face

Vaseline basically acts as a crucial shield, safeguarding the sensitive facial area of a fighter, such as the eyebrows and cheekbones, from potential cuts and injuries during boxing or MMA.

A thin layer of vaseline, acts as a lubricating barrier. It minimizes friction and needs up reducing the impact of punches and lessening the likelihood of skin damage.

Boxers use vaseline, not only to protect their face but also to maintain their focus and composure during a fight without the concern of severe cuts which can cause infections and impair vision.

Vaseline Protects From Nasty Cuts

Vaseline is like a shield for combat sports fighters against nasty cuts during a match. It is usually applied to areas prone to cuts, like the eyebrows and cheekbones to allow your opponent’s gloves to slide off your face.

It creates a protective barrier on the boxer’s face that reduces friction and helps punches slide off the skin more smoothly. Especially for leather gloves which create a lot of friction, thus, decreasing the likelihood of cuts. Applying vaseline can also make it harder for sharp edges or rough surfaces to penetrate the skin, minimizing the severity of any potential facial wounds.

Vaseline not only helps facial injuries but is also used to reduce swelling, and the impact of blows on the skin. Ultimately, keeping fighters safe and allowing them to give their best performance, without the fear of deep cuts.

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Vaseline Prevents Sweat From Entering The Eyes

Boxers and MMA fighters apply Vaseline to prevent sweat from getting into their eyes. It is common for fighters to put a thin layer of Vaseline around the eyebrows and forehead. This creates a barrier that can redirect sweat away from their eyes during an intense fight.

If sweat were to enter the boxer’ eyes, it could impair their vision and cause issues in the fight. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference during a fight. However, too much Vaseline on their face could also lead to problems, so much sure to apply a thin layer.

why do boxers put vaseline on face

Do UFC Fighters Put Vaseline on Their Face Too?

UFC fighters also use vaseline on their faces for the same reasons as boxers or other fighters. The purpose is mainly to reduce friction and protect against cuts during fights. Applying Vaseline is a common practice in the UFC, it helps fighters minimize the impact of strikes on their skin and prevent unnecessary cuts.

There are many examples of famous athletes using Vaseline, like Conor McGregor, who has been seen with Vaseline applied to his face before entering the Octagon. Nate Diaz, another well-known name who has also used Vaseline on his face in UFC matches.

Where and how is Vaseline applied to Fighters?

It is common for boxers and mixed martial artists to apply vaseline to areas of their face that are prone to cuts and abrasions during a fight. It is usually applied to the eyebrows, cheekbones, and around the eyes. This practice helps reduce friction and makes it harder for punches to cause cuts.

The Vaseline is typically applied by the fighter’s corner team before a fight and sometimes in between rounds. They apply a thin layer of Vaseline to the fighter’s face to create a protective barrier.

However, it’s essential to apply Vaseline carefully to avoid getting it in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Properly applying it will prevent any accidental contact that could affect the fighter’s vision or breathing during the match.

What Parts of the Body Can Vaseline Not Be Applied?

For fighters in various combat sports, Vaseline should not be applied to certain parts of the body, like inside the ears, nose, or eyes. You also should not use Vaseline on open wounds or cuts as it can trap bacteria, delay healing and potentially cause an infection.

Additionally, avoid applying Vaseline on areas that have acne or other skin conditions that could worsen with occlusive petroleum jellies like Vaseline. Make sure to always check with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about where to apply it to ensure safe and effective use.

why do boxers put vaseline on face

How are Cuts Treated During the Fight?

During a professional fight, small cuts are typically treated by immediately applying pressure to stop the bleeding. If the cut is deeper, it may need stitches to close the wound properly. It’s very important to clean the cut with water and a clean cloth to prevent an infection. Some medics use special creams or ointments to help with quicker healing and reduce scarring.

In more serious cases, like excessive bleeding, medical professionals may need to intervene to ensure proper treatment and prevent any further complications. It is also quite common in combat sports for fights to be stopped if a cut or injury is too serious. This is usually if the cut gives the fighter’s opponent an unfair advantage.

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Today, beginners live in a world full of fake natties and influencers on anabolic ster*ids, trying to sell you supplements from their sponsors. They often advertise those supplements as a one-stop journey to increasing testosterone production, but the truth is far from this. The reality is that there are much better ways to naturally increase testosterone production.

Continue reading to learn all about how combat sports affect your T levels, and various other factors, that’ll give you a testosterone boost if you’re consistent.

does combat sports increase testosterone

Does Combat Sports Increase Testosterone Levels?

Combat sports, such as boxing, MMA, and wrestling, are physically demanding. Training for these sports can impact testosterone levels in athletes, especially beginners with low testosterone.

The high-intensity workouts, strength training, and cardiovascular demands of combat sports are all great for reducing body fat, increasing muscle mass, and improving overall fitness (source). All of these are factors associated with healthy testosterone levels. Chances are, if you progressed in some way, there may have been a slight increase in your T levels.

Furthermore, the competitive and adrenaline-inducing nature of combat sports and their intense training sessions can stimulate the release of endorphins and other hormones. These happy hormones may indirectly positively influence testosterone production.

Keep training hard in your combat sports training and enjoy the plethora of benefits these activities bring to your overall health and fitness.

What Does The Science Say?

While there is limited info linking combat sports to increased testosterone levels, the nature of these sports can contribute positively to hormonal changes.

Combat sports may not directly be linked to bringing a significant boost in testosterone. However, the physical benefits and hormonal responses associated with their training can contribute to maintaining optimal hormone balance in fighters.

Do BJJ Athletes Need Boosted Testosterone?

BJJ (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu) athletes require healthy levels of testosterone to support their highly demanding athletic performance and recovery. This is because testosterone plays a crucial role in muscle growth, explosive strength development, and overall physical well-being, all of which are essential for athletes to excel in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

There isn’t a specific need for high testosterone levels beyond what is considered normal in BJJ athletes. However, maintaining a healthy balance of testosterone through proper nutrition, adequate rest, and regular exercise is important for BJJ grapplers to perform at their best.

By focusing on overall physical and mental health, BJJ athletes can ensure that their testosterone levels support their highly demanding athletic endeavors effectively. So, keep rolling and grappling on the mats, and make sure to prioritize your well-being to maintain peak performance in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Remember, as an athlete, it is never recommended to take ster*id hormones, especially without the supervision of an experienced coach.

Does Boxing Increase Testosterone?

Boxing is a great workout that involves a mix of cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and agility work, all of which can create a hormonal response that can improve testosterone production.

Although there isn’t any direct scientific evidence specifically linking boxing to increased testosterone levels, the intense nature of a boxing training session can have positive effects on hormone balance. High-intensity exercises in boxing power cleans can help reduce body fat, increase muscle mass, and improve overall fitness. All of which are all factors that can indirectly improve your testosterone level.

Boxing itself may not directly cause any significant increases in testosterone levels. However, the overall physical benefits of the sport can contribute to a healthier body composition and potentially optimize hormone production.

So, keep throwing those punches hard and enjoy the many fitness benefits that boxing has to offer.

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does combat sports increase testosterone

How Exercise Affects Testosterone Levels

When you engage in resistance training, especially through activities like weightlifting or high-intensity interval training, your body experiences various biological changes. These changes can positively impact testosterone levels.

Regular exercise stimulates the release of endorphins. Endorphins like dopamine are feel-good hormones that can help reduce stress. Lower stress levels contribute to better hormone balance, which can help those with low testosterone, especially those people who face reduced muscle mass as they get older.

Secondly, intense exercise can increase your heartbeat and improve blood flow, this promotes oxygen delivery to your muscles, promoting tissue repair and growth. This process is known as muscle hypertrophy. It triggers the release of hormones like testosterone and growth hormone, both of which are essential for muscle development.

So, by staying active and incorporating different types of exercise into your routine you reap several benefits. With exercise, you’re not only improving your physical fitness but also supporting healthy testosterone levels through a series of released endorphins in your body.

does combat sports increase testosterone

Ways To Boost Testosterone Naturally

Not everyone needs to take human growth hormone and testosterone in the form of a ster*id hormone to increase their testosterone levels. In fact, anyone can naturally increase their levels of testosterone through simple techniques and a bit of consistency.

Below listed are some of the best ways for a natural testosterone boost. These techniques are backed up by decades of science and results, they are essentially free of testosterone.

Physical Exercise

Physical activity and exercising regularly is practically free testosterone. Jogging, running, sprinting, yoga, boxing, weight training or any sort of cardiovascular exercise will help young men improve their testosterone levels naturally in an efficient manner.

Not only does it improve your levels of testosterone, it improves your heart health and helps in losing weight. It is recommended you aim to become a hybrid athlete. A hybrid athlete is someone who trains their strength through weight lifting, mobility through yoga or stretching, self defense with a combat sport and cardiovascular health with cardio.

All in all, if you’re looking to increase your testosterone levels and gain a variety of benefits while you’re at it. There is no better option than physical activity.

Resistance training

Engaging in weight training is a fantastic way to boost testosterone levels naturally.

When you hit the gym and lift some heavy iron, your body responds by increasing testosterone production to support muscle growth and improve the recovery process. Regularly lifting weights and incorporating compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses is especially effective at improving testosterone levels naturally.

Adding regular and high-intensity resistance training into your weekly workout routine has many benefits. You’re not only building strength and muscle but also signaling to your body to increase testosterone production.

This is why high-intensity interval training is one of the best ways to enjoy the benefits of higher testosterone levels and a stronger, fitter you!

Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy and protein-rich diet plays a crucial role in naturally boosting your testosterone levels.

Including foods rich in nutrients into your daily diet like zinc, vitamin D, and healthy fats can support optimal hormone production. Consuming lean meats (Chicken, red meat, fish), nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, eggs and whole grains are a great way provide the necessary nutrients to help your body maintain healthy testosterone levels.

Moreover, staying hydrated and avoiding processed foods and sugary carbonated drinks can also contribute to hormonal balance. By fueling your body by eating balanced, high-protein and nutritious diet, you’re giving it the tools it needs to increase its testosterone production.

Consistent, Quality Sleep

Getting consistent and quality sleep is a game-changer when it comes to naturally boosting your testosterone. When you prioritize sleeping well, your body has the chance to regulate your hormones, including testosterone.

During deep, good-quality sleep, your body undergoes various essential processes that improve testosterone synthesis and overall hormone balance. You should aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. This is the golden spot, where you’re giving your body the rest it needs to function optimally, naturally leading to higher testosterone levels.

So make sure you prioritize catching those Z’s consistently to support your body in maintaining healthy testosterone levels and catalyzing muscle recovery.

Avoid Stress

Avoiding stress is key when it comes to naturally boosting and maintaining good testosterone levels. Stress can throw off your body’s hormones, drastically decreasing testosterone production. By managing stress using exercise, meditation, or spending time doing activities you love, you can help your body maintain optimal testosterone levels.

By taking less stress, your body can function more efficiently. It also increases the production of the “happy hormone” dopamine, allowing your body to prioritize hormone production and keep testosterone levels in check.

When you take various measures to minimize the stress in your life, you’re not only promoting your overall well-being but also supporting healthy testosterone levels.

Avoid Alcohol Consumption

Avoiding alcohol can actually be a very smart move if you’re looking to naturally boost your testosterone. This is because alcohol can mess with your body’s hormone balance, especially your testosterone production.

When you cut back on the weekend drinks, you give your body a chance to operate at its best and allow it to maintain healthy testosterone levels. Moreover, alcohol can also mess with your sleep. This is an issue because good sleep is crucial for testosterone production and quick recovery.

So, by reducing how often you drink, you’re not only supporting your overall health but also giving your testosterone levels a natural boost.

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Every boxer has a style they stick to; it is usually one that suits their craft and the biomechanics of their body. Some fighters focus on offense, some prefer a defensive style. This is where the Philly Shell comes into play; boxing’s most impeccable defense style.

Continue reading to learn all about this high guard stance, how to use it and some greats who built their professional careers using it.

power punches, modern era fighter positions, what is the philly shell

What is the Philly Shell?

The Philly Shell is a popular defensive style where the boxer stands with their lead hand low and their rear hand held high by the side of their face, resembling a sort of shell. This is a slick defensive style used to efficiently deflect punches, and protect the body, all while using as little energy as possible.

Fighters like Floyd Mayweather Jr. and James Toney are known for using this excellent fighting stance to slip punches, maintain distance, and set up their own counterattacks. Overall, its an advanced technique that requires a lot of skill and practice to master.

Breaking Down the Philly Shell Defense Style

The Philly Shell defense style in boxing is all about strategic positioning. Picture this: the boxer tucks their lead hand low and near their waist, keeping it ready to jab or block shots to the stomach or liver.

On the other side, the rear hand is up high by the cheek, acting as a shield to protect the face, making sure you can hit, without getting hit. It allows the fighter to slip and roll with punches, making it hard for opponents to land clean and damaging shots.

Plus, it also sets the boxer up for quick, sharp counters, and effective defensive maneuvers. The Philly Shell is like a dance in the ring, adding flair and finesse to a boxer’s defense.

Using This Fight Style in the Ring

When it comes to using this technique in the ring, it’s all about finesse, precision, and strategy. Boxers who employ this technique mainly use a shoulder roll to focus on slipping punches, deflecting blows, and countering with accuracy.

By keeping your lead hand low and the rear hand high, you essentially create a solid defensive barrier while staying ready to launch quick and powerful counterattacks. The key to executing this style with perfection is to maintain proper footwork, head movement, and timing.

Overall, the Philly Shell is a dynamic approach that requires skill, timing, and a deep understanding of your opponent’s movements. Mastering the Philly Shell defense can give you a significant edge in the ring. It will allow you to control the pace of the fight, and capitalize on openings with precision.

what is the philly shell, floyd mayweather fighting style

Famous Fighters That Used The Philly Shell Defense

Over decades of boxing history, there have been many famous boxers who adopted this fighting style in their professional career.

Floyd Mayweather Jr

Arguably the greatest boxer to ever live and the biggest draw in the history of the sport, Mayweather Jr. won 15 world titles in several weight classes like super lightweight and light middleweight. The undefeated champion was well known for his defensive style of boxing.

He used the Philly Shell defense to effectively defend himself against even the most feared opponents like Manny Pacquiao and Canelo Alvarez.

Bernard Hopkins

Bernard Hopkins is an all-time legend when it comes to using the Philly Shell defense. He’s known for his defensive skills and masterful counter-punching abilities. Hopkins dominated the middleweight and light-heavyweight weight classes throughout his career.

His strategic use of the Philly Shell style, combined with his ring intelligence, and exceptional composure helped him become him win world championships and retire as one of the best in the game.

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How to Stand in the Philly Shell Stance

When you stand with your hands in the Philly Shell defense style, your footwork plays a crucial role in maintaining good balance, mobility, and defensive capabilities in the ring. Boxers who utilize this stance should focus on positioning their lead foot slightly forward and their rear foot back for a stable base.

The lead shoulder is to be tucked in to protect the chin, while the rear shoulder is raised to shield the face, this will help with smooth shoulder rolls. Keeping the weight distributed evenly between both feet allows for quick and efficient movement in any direction. This enables the boxer to evade and throw punches effectively.

It’s essential to stay light on the feet, ready to pivot and shift weight to counter or escape when needed. By mastering the footwork in the Philly Shell stance, a boxer can enhance their defensive prowess and control the flow of the fight with finesse and skill.

Hand Placement

The Philly Shell defense stance is all about protecting yourself while always staying ready to counter-attack. Boxers who practice this, have their lead hand (usually the left hand for a right-handed fighter) positioned close to the face to guard against jabs and straight punches.

The rear hand, which is usually the right hand is held lower, near the waist, to block body shots (mainly liver shots) and be ready for powerful counter punches. Aside from the hands, the lead shoulder is raised to protect the chin, while the rear shoulder is slightly rolled forward to add another layer of defense.

Tucking Your Chin Behind The Shoulder

When you tuck your shin behind the shoulder, it’s like adding an extra layer of protection. Keeping your chin close to your shoulder creates a strong barrier that can absorb and deflect any incoming punches, especially hooks and uppercuts.

A tucked chin also helps you maintain a compact position, making it harder for your opponent to find openings to land clean shots. If you practice leaning slightly, it also sets you up for powerful counter-attacks by generating torque and leverage in your punches.

Standing Sideways

By standing at an angle with your lead shoulder facing your opponent, you present a smaller target for your opponent to hit. This stance makes shoulder rolls easier which allows you to slip punches and move your head out of the way with a shorter reaction time.

what is the philly shell

Important Tips For Using the Philly Shell Defense

  • Lead Foot Alignment: When in the shell, you need to keep your lead foot aligned with your opponent’s lead foot. Doing this ensures that the open side of your body is closed off, so they can’t hit you there.

  • Lead Hand Placement: Your lead hand is hugged across your body and not dangling at your hip. You can throw quick jabs doing this, but your body is open to get hit.

  • Tuck Your Chin: Keep your chin tucked and lead shoulder up in the Philly shell. Your opponent will have free shots at your face if your shoulder isn’t up with your chin tucked behind it.

  • Don’t Stand Square: Never stand square with your opponent when trying to use the Philly shell. You have to be standing semi-sideways to create the shell.

  • Head Back: In the shell, always keep your head back and never lean forward.

what is the philly shell

Benefits of using The Philly Shell Defense

  • Fewer Openings to vital parts of the body

  • Having openings for powerful counters

  • A clear vision so you see all incoming attacks

  • Easier to throw more powerful jabs

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Philly Shell defense style is one of the most popular defensive styles in boxing. Many boxers adopted this technique and ended their boxing career as world champion, like Floyd Mayweather Jr., Evander Holyfield, and James Toney.

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There is truly nothing like being #1 whether its in your weight class, your age group or a whole organization. In Boxing and MMA, athletes can become the best fighter in the world, regardless of their weight division.

This is where “Pound-for-pound fighters” come into play. Given this prestigious title based on a variety of factors, this is truly every fighter’s dream. Continue reading to learn all about how fighters are ranked, what P4P means and who are the legends who managed to attain this title in their craft.

what does pound for pound mean

What does Pound-For-Pound Mean?

In combat sports, pound-for-pound is a way to compare combatants from different weight classes based on skill and ability, regardless of the weight they compete at. It’s basically a hypothetical ranking system that imagines if all the fighters were the same weight, who would come out on top.

When an athlete is considered the best pound-for-pound fighter, it means they are seen as the most skilled and talented boxer in the world or organization. It is common for these fighters to have shown exceptional technique, speed, power, and overall combat sport prowess in their professional career.

Overall, it’s an interesting way to recognize and appreciate the top fighters in the history of the sport, regardless of the weight class they compete in.

What Does “Pound For Pound” Mean In Boxing?

In boxing, pound-for-pound is essentially a way to compare fighters regardless of their weight class. It’s like imagining if every boxer weighed the same, who would be the best fighter based on skill, power, and ability.

This means that when someone is considered the best pound-for-pound boxer, it means they are seen as the most skilled and talented boxer in the organization. To achieve such a feat, boxers need to showcase exceptional technique, speed, and power, alongside an excellent win-loss record throughout their career. Truth be told, the system isn’t as transparent as it should be.

what does pound for pound mean

Does it Mean Something Else in UFC?

Not at all. Just like in boxing, pound-for-pound is also a way to compare UFC fighters from different weight classes based on skill and ability. It’s a way to determine who the best overall Ultimate Fighting Championship fighter is, regardless of their weight class.

So, when someone is considered the best pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC, it means they are seen as the best fighter in the company. To make the pound-for-pound rankings, athletes must show exceptional technique, speed, power, and overall fighting abilities.

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How is a pound-for-pound ranking determined?

Pound-for-pound rankings in combat sports like boxing and mixed martial arts are usually determined by a panel of experts, journalists, and analysts. They consider various factors such as a fighter’s skill level, record, quality of opponents faced, dominant performances, and overall impact in the sport as an entertainer.

Pound-for-pound fighters ranks are subjective and can vary among different organizations. Only fighters who consistently display consistent talent, technique, and success in the ring/octagon are considered for the top spots in the pound-for-pound rankings.

The UFC’s Pound-for-Pound Ranking System

The UFC’s pound-for-pound rankings aim to showcase the best fighters on their roster, highlighting their skills and what they’ve achieved in the octagon.

The rankings are determined by a panel of media members who vote on the top active fighters. They vote based on criteria like skill level, record, quality of opponents faced, dominant performances, and championship titles held, alongside how active they are.

The system often sparks debates among fans and experts, with discussions on who truly deserves to be at the top of the list. These rankings can sometimes stir controversy due to subjective judgments and differing opinions.

The rivalry between Alexander Volkanovski (then #1) and Islam Makhachev (then #2) is the latest example of this. Despite (barely) defeating Volk in their first fight, Islam still remained second. Then, Jon Jones reclaimed the number one spot after his win over Cyril Gane despite having been inactive for years. Islam would finally become number one after demolishing Volkanovski in their second fight.

However, the rankings still add an extra layer of excitement and intrigue to the world of Mixed Martial arts, keeping fans engaged and passionate about their favorite fighters. From one fighter to another, it’s a dynamic system that reflects the ever-evolving landscape of the UFC and the incredible talent within the prestigious organization.

what does pound for pound mean, heavyweight division

Boxing Pound For Pound Ranking System

In the boxing world, the pound-for-pound rankings are all about showcasing the best fighters regardless of their weight divisions. The rankings are based on a mix of factors like skill, record, quality of opponents faced, championship titles held, and the ability to fill out an arena.

Enthusiasts, analysts, and fans all play a role in shaping these rankings by evaluating boxers based on their overall abilities and achievements in the ring. These rankings often lead to heated debates and discussions, especially when it comes to determining the best boxer.

Controversies and Criticisms of the Pound-for-Pound Rankings

While pound-for-pound rankings are a highly popular way to compare fighters across weight classes or a whole organization’s roster, there are some controversies and criticisms surrounding these rankings.

Some common issues include subjective judgments in ranking the best fighters. There is a common risk of potential biases from media or promoters, and discrepancies in how different organizations rank fighters. Another problem is the lack of standardized criteria for pound-for-pound rankings.

Additionally, debates regularly arise about the importance of certain factors like record versus quality of opponents faced.

“Pound For Pound” Factors

Skill level: Skill level refers to the fighter’s technical abilities, including their boxing or MMA techniques, footwork, defense, and offense. A high skill level fighter is always an all-rounder.

Record: A fighter’s record showcases their wins, losses, draws, and knockouts, throughout their professional career. A strong record with wins over notable opponents will definitely elevate a fighter’s pound-for-pound status

Quality of opponents faced: The quality of the opponents faced is also crucial in determining a fighter’s pound-for-pound ranking. Facing and defeating top contenders demonstrates a fighter’s ability to compete at a high level and stay there

Dominant performances: They highlight a fighter’s ability to control a fight, and decisively defeat their opponents with ease. Consistently delivering dominant performances in the ring can hugely elevate a fighter’s pound-for-pound ranking

Championship titles held: Holding championship titles in different weight divisions signifies a fighter’s skill, and dominance in the sport. Several championship titles add to a fighter’s legacy and can be an important factor in their pound-for-pound ranking

best fighters

Who is the all-time best pound-for-pound Fighter?

Determining the all-time best pound-for-pound fighter is a tough one considering it’s subjective and open to debates by fans and organizations. However, there are several worthy contenders from various weight classes in both MMA and boxing.

When it comes to MMA, many fans and experts consider fighters like Jon Jones, Georges St-Pierre, Anderson Silva, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Demetrious Johnson as some of the G.O.A.T pound-for-pound fighters.

When it comes to boxers, it is also a hot topic considering the amount of elite boxers available. Boxing legends like Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Robinson, Floyd Mayweather Jr., and Manny Pacquiao are all considered some of the greatest pound-for-pound boxers of all time.

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Your grip strength is one of your biggest assets in life. Practically every aspect of your daily routine involves your grip in one way or another, whether it’s shaking hands, carrying groceries, or playing a competitive sport.

Therefore, you must treat it as a priority and train it accordingly. Read below to learn all about how to strengthen your grip, why is it important, and some tips and tricks to help you progress quicker.

how to increase grip strength

How to Increase Grip Strength

When it comes to strengthening your grip, there are various to-the-point grip exercises you can explore.

Incorporating upper body exercises like hanging from a pull-up bar for timed intervals, performing reverse wrist curls with dumbbells to target your forearm muscles, using hand grippers to work on hand and finger strength, or engaging in challenging sports like rock climbing or rowing that naturally strengthen your grip and wrists.

Aside from these bodyweight exercises, you can also incorporate weight-lifting, exercises like farmer’s walks, deadlifts, rack-pulls, and sled-pulls are all excellent exercises to improve grip strength.

By increasing the intensity and duration of these exercises as you progress, you can effectively improve your grip strength. It’s important to mix up your routine with a variety of grip exercises to target different muscle groups and improve overall hand strength and versatility.

Remember, consistency and hard work are key, incorporate these exercises regularly into your workout regimen, train hard and you will see improvements in your grip strength over time.

Will working my grip strength make my forearms bigger?

Strengthening your grip is a sure-found way of building up those forearms. This is why you will often see laborers and construction workers with jacked forearms.

Many grip exercises, like deadlifts, farmer’s walks, plate pinches, wrist curls, or even just squeezing a tennis ball, work the muscles in your forearms, elbows, hands, and wrists to support, strengthen, and stabilize your grip.

These exercises can lead to muscle hypertrophy, which is what triggers muscle growth. By consistently training your grip strength hard and engaging your forearm muscles properly, you’re likely to see progress in both areas over time.

So, if you’re aiming to build bigger forearms, focusing on a variety of grip exercises is a solid way to reach that goal alongside boosting your overall strength and functionality. Train hard and stay consistent, and you’ll soon notice some serious gains in your forearms.

strong grip, how to increase grip strength

Why Grip Strength And Wrist Mobility Is So Important

Having a strong grip and good wrist mobility is crucial for various reasons.

Grip strength is essential for performing everyday tasks like carrying groceries, opening jars, or even holding onto objects securely. Your grip and wrist mobility also play a significant role in many sports and physical activities, such as weightlifting, rock and rope climbing, or playing racquet sports like badminton.

Having strong wrists and grip can greatly enhance your performance in these activities and reduce the risk of injuries. Additionally, adequate wrist flexibility is vital for maintaining proper form in exercises like push-ups, planks, or heavy overhead presses in the weight room.

This helps prevent wrist pain and improves overall movement efficiency. By focusing on building a solid grip and improving wrist flexibility, you can enhance your functional abilities, prevent injuries, and excel in various physical aspects.

How Do I Test Grip Strength?

The simplest way to measure or test your grip strength is through the handgrip test. All you need is a hand dynamometer, which is a useful device specifically designed to measure grip strength.

Begin by holding the dynamometer in one hand with your arm at your side and squeezing the handle as hard as possible. Make sure your wrist is in a neutral position and your elbow is not bent. Repeat the test three times with both hands, allowing some rest between attempts. Record the highest reading from each hand, or average out the three measurements to get an accurate measure of your grip strength.

Although not as efficient or accurate, there are other ways to test your grip strength. Some examples include performing exercises like dead hangs or holding onto a heavy dumbbell for as long as you can. These exercises can give you a good indication of where you stand in terms of grip strength and endurance.

how to increase grip strength

6 Tips to Build Grip Strength

  1. Incorporate grip-specific exercises into your routine, like deadlifts and farmer’s walks

  2. Use grip-strengthening tools like hand grippers, Alpha Gripz, Great Ape Grips (Rice bag trainer) or stress balls to work on your grip strength on the go

  3. Prioritize proper form during exercises to ensure you’re engaging the muscles in your forearms effectively

  4. Gradually increase the weight or resistance to keep your training challenging

  5. Include forearm stretches and mobility exercises in your warm-up routine to prevent injuries

  6. Be consistent and give your muscles time to rest and recover between intense training sessions

  • Description:

    You want a forearm workout that leaves you vascular and feeling a burn? Alpha Gripz will help you get there. A product that helps you increase grip strength for various sports.

  • Pros:
    • Super easy to move this equipment around
    • Comes with 4 different levels to work up to
    • Work outside and inside parts of forearm
  • Description:

    Built for versatility, Great Ape Grips offers a comprehensive grip training experience that is an upgraded/mobile version of the classic rice bucket workout!

  • Pros:
    • A new and unique way to train forearms
    • Easy to bring anywhere
    • Minimal Space Required
Best Kettlebell Brand
  • Description:

    Kettlebell training involves dynamic, whole-body movements that enhance strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Its effectiveness for athlete-like conditioning stems from the combination of resistance training and functional movements.

  • Pros:
    • Replaces dumbbells and allows for full body exercise
    • Increase grip strength with various exercises
    • Something for everyone
  • Description:

    Traditional Hand gripper set. Comes with 6 different levels to work up to.

  • Pros:
    • Easy to use
    • Training for every level
    • Cheap and quick delivery for those wanting to start today
Description:

You want a forearm workout that leaves you vascular and feeling a burn? Alpha Gripz will help you get there. A product that helps you increase grip strength for various sports.

Pros:
  • Super easy to move this equipment around
  • Comes with 4 different levels to work up to
  • Work outside and inside parts of forearm
Description:

Built for versatility, Great Ape Grips offers a comprehensive grip training experience that is an upgraded/mobile version of the classic rice bucket workout!

Pros:
  • A new and unique way to train forearms
  • Easy to bring anywhere
  • Minimal Space Required
Best Kettlebell Brand
Description:

Kettlebell training involves dynamic, whole-body movements that enhance strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Its effectiveness for athlete-like conditioning stems from the combination of resistance training and functional movements.

Pros:
  • Replaces dumbbells and allows for full body exercise
  • Increase grip strength with various exercises
  • Something for everyone
Description:

Traditional Hand gripper set. Comes with 6 different levels to work up to.

Pros:
  • Easy to use
  • Training for every level
  • Cheap and quick delivery for those wanting to start today

How To Improve Grip Strength and Mobility At The Office & Home

The best part about grip strength training is that you do not need a whole gym to gain progress. You can easily train your grip at home, at work, or on the go with commonly available and affordable equipment. Things like rice bags and hand grippers are an excellent choice for beginners to make some serious progress.

Alpha Gripz

Alpha Gripz grip training equipment is a fantastic choice for enhancing your grip strength. These tools are designed to target the muscles in your hands and forearms, helping you build strength and endurance.

Alpha Gripz offers a variety of options, from hand grippers to finger exercisers, allowing you to customize your grip training routine based on your specific goals and needs.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your grip strength or an experienced athlete aiming to take your performance to the next level, Alpha Gripz equipment is an excellent choice.

Great Ape Grips Rice Bag

The rice bag by Great Ape Grips (Review) is one of the most unique and versatile pieces of grip equipment out there. Essentially it is a 3-pound bag full of rice with a glove-like incision in the middle. This allows you to wear it like a glove and enjoy the unique resistance profile.

These rice bags are great for building grip strength alongside your wrists. Wrist curls are exceptionally comfortable with both palms facing towards and away from you. The rice filling makes it extremely adaptable to various movements like squeezing, twisting, and more.

You can even make your workout harder by squeezing the bag with a bent wrist.

Hand Gripper

Hand grippers are one of the most common tools to build grip strength. They are extremely common and also affordable. You can also get dial grippers which have a dial to increase or decrease the intensity.

These adjustable grippers are amazing for beginners who are making quick progress. To use a hand gripper, all you have to do is squeeze the handles together using your finger strength. Make sure to gently place the gripper between your fingers and palms.

So if you’re dealing with weak grip strength in terms of handshakes or just carrying groceries, hand grippers are one of the best grip work tools for you.

Grip Strength Measurer

Part of doing these exercises is to know and see progress so you can see if want you are doing is actually working. That is where a grip strength measurement meter will be needed. If you are serious about increasing your grip strength this is the perfect tool to measure the progress you may (or may not) be seeing.

how to increase grip strength

Best Workouts to Improve Grip Strength

Improving your grip strength is not a complicated process, most people do not need a personal trainer or a physical therapist to make decent progress. If you have access to a gym, all you need are a few of the best exercises to improve your grip.

Reverse grip barbell curl

The reverse grip barbell curl is without a doubt, one of the best exercises for building your forearms and strengthening your grip. You can perform the exercise with a straight bar, however, an EZ curl bar is preferred.

An EZ curl barbell is less straining on your wrists and involves more of your forearms during the exercise. To perform this exercise, grab and lift the bar with your palms turned towards the floor, instead of up. After this, curl the weight up normally, pause at the top and perform a slow eccentric.

Within a few sets, you will feel the burn and pump.

  • Description:

    You want a forearm workout that leaves you vascular and feeling a burn? Alpha Gripz will help you get there. A product that helps you increase grip strength for various sports.

  • Pros:
    • Super easy to move this equipment around
    • Comes with 4 different levels to work up to
    • Work outside and inside parts of forearm
  • Description:

    Built for versatility, Great Ape Grips offers a comprehensive grip training experience that is an upgraded/mobile version of the classic rice bucket workout!

  • Pros:
    • A new and unique way to train forearms
    • Easy to bring anywhere
    • Minimal Space Required
Best Kettlebell Brand
  • Description:

    Kettlebell training involves dynamic, whole-body movements that enhance strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Its effectiveness for athlete-like conditioning stems from the combination of resistance training and functional movements.

  • Pros:
    • Replaces dumbbells and allows for full body exercise
    • Increase grip strength with various exercises
    • Something for everyone
  • Description:

    Traditional Hand gripper set. Comes with 6 different levels to work up to.

  • Pros:
    • Easy to use
    • Training for every level
    • Cheap and quick delivery for those wanting to start today
Description:

You want a forearm workout that leaves you vascular and feeling a burn? Alpha Gripz will help you get there. A product that helps you increase grip strength for various sports.

Pros:
  • Super easy to move this equipment around
  • Comes with 4 different levels to work up to
  • Work outside and inside parts of forearm
Description:

Built for versatility, Great Ape Grips offers a comprehensive grip training experience that is an upgraded/mobile version of the classic rice bucket workout!

Pros:
  • A new and unique way to train forearms
  • Easy to bring anywhere
  • Minimal Space Required
Best Kettlebell Brand
Description:

Kettlebell training involves dynamic, whole-body movements that enhance strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Its effectiveness for athlete-like conditioning stems from the combination of resistance training and functional movements.

Pros:
  • Replaces dumbbells and allows for full body exercise
  • Increase grip strength with various exercises
  • Something for everyone
Description:

Traditional Hand gripper set. Comes with 6 different levels to work up to.

Pros:
  • Easy to use
  • Training for every level
  • Cheap and quick delivery for those wanting to start today

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Have you ever imagined carrying all the groceries in one go from the car, or being complimented on having a strong handshake? If this is you, you’ve come to the right place.

In this article, you will learn all about grip strength, its purpose and importance, and also how to train and improve grip strength. Grip strength plays a massive role in the general health of our bodies. Not only is grip strength a huge focus of ours at the current moment but for millions of people worldwide who have been ignoring the pivotal muscles in the forearms.

what is grip strength

What is Grip Strength?

Grip strength refers to the ability of your hand, fingers, and forearm muscles to generate force to grasp, hold, squeeze, or manipulate objects. It plays a crucial role in various daily activities like exercise, opening jars, and even typing on a keyboard.

A higher grip strength is not only essential for functional tasks but also for sports performance and overall hand dexterity. By building up your grip strength, you can enhance your hand and forearm muscles’ endurance, coordination, and power, leading to improved performance in a wide range of daily activities.

A weak grip strength is associated with a variety of physical limitations like a weak handshake, which can perceive you as weak in front of others. It also puts you at an increased risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular diseases.

Hand Muscle Strength

Your hands are made up of a complex network of muscles in your fingers and palms that allow you to perform a wide range of movements and tasks. Strengthening these muscles is crucial for maintaining hand function, and dexterity, and improving hand health.

Having strong hand muscles will support and improve your grip strength, motor skills, and coordination, making daily activities like writing, typing, and grasping objects easier.

By incorporating hand muscle strengthening exercises into your training routine such as grip squeezes, finger extensions, and wrist curls, you can enhance hand muscle strength, reduce the risk of injuries, and promote better hand function for various activities and sports like arm wrestling and and grappling.

muscle strength, what is grip strength

How grip strength is related to your health

Your grip strength is closely linked to your overall health and well-being. Research suggests that grip strength can serve as an indicator of general health status. Decreased grip strength is also associated with increased risks of various clinical interventions like cardiovascular disease, disability, and mortality.

Strong grip strength is not only crucial for performing daily tasks effectively and efficiently but also plays a role in maintaining bone density, joint health, and muscle functional status. By improving grip strength through exercise, you can enhance your overall physical fitness, be at a lower risk of certain health conditions, and also promote better functional independence as you age.

Therefore, focusing on building and maintaining normal grip strength can have significant positive impacts on your health and quality of life, this is because most of the general population is likely to face grip strength problems as they age.

  • Description:

    You want a forearm workout that leaves you vascular and feeling a burn? Alpha Gripz will help you get there. A product that helps you increase grip strength for various sports.

  • Pros:
    • Super easy to move this equipment around
    • Comes with 4 different levels to work up to
    • Work outside and inside parts of forearm
  • Description:

    Built for versatility, Great Ape Grips offers a comprehensive grip training experience that is an upgraded/mobile version of the classic rice bucket workout!

  • Pros:
    • A new and unique way to train forearms
    • Easy to bring anywhere
    • Minimal Space Required
Best Kettlebell Brand
  • Description:

    Kettlebell training involves dynamic, whole-body movements that enhance strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Its effectiveness for athlete-like conditioning stems from the combination of resistance training and functional movements.

  • Pros:
    • Replaces dumbbells and allows for full body exercise
    • Increase grip strength with various exercises
    • Something for everyone
  • Description:

    Traditional Hand gripper set. Comes with 6 different levels to work up to.

  • Pros:
    • Easy to use
    • Training for every level
    • Cheap and quick delivery for those wanting to start today
Description:

You want a forearm workout that leaves you vascular and feeling a burn? Alpha Gripz will help you get there. A product that helps you increase grip strength for various sports.

Pros:
  • Super easy to move this equipment around
  • Comes with 4 different levels to work up to
  • Work outside and inside parts of forearm
Description:

Built for versatility, Great Ape Grips offers a comprehensive grip training experience that is an upgraded/mobile version of the classic rice bucket workout!

Pros:
  • A new and unique way to train forearms
  • Easy to bring anywhere
  • Minimal Space Required
Best Kettlebell Brand
Description:

Kettlebell training involves dynamic, whole-body movements that enhance strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Its effectiveness for athlete-like conditioning stems from the combination of resistance training and functional movements.

Pros:
  • Replaces dumbbells and allows for full body exercise
  • Increase grip strength with various exercises
  • Something for everyone
Description:

Traditional Hand gripper set. Comes with 6 different levels to work up to.

Pros:
  • Easy to use
  • Training for every level
  • Cheap and quick delivery for those wanting to start today

Why Grip Strength is Important for Grapplers and Martial Artists

Grip strength holds huge significance for grapplers and martial artists because of the abundance of pulling movements in BJJ and other Martial Arts.

A stronger grip force allows grapplers to secure holds, execute takedowns, and maintain complete control over their opponents. It also enhances their ability to perform various grappling techniques with better form, such as submissions and joint locks.

For martial artists, grip strength is vital for striking, clinching, and defending against their opponents during sparring and matches. By improving hand grip strength through targeted exercises like farmer’s carry and pull-ups, grapplers and martial artists can enhance their performance, endurance, and overall effectiveness in combat situations.

So, focusing on developing grip strength is key for success in grappling and martial arts.

what is grip strength and what are its benefits

What are the Benefits of Having a Strong Grip?

Having a strong grip offers many benefits. For starters, it helps with everyday tasks like carrying groceries and opening jars. In sports like rock climbing, weightlifting, and golf, a better grip can improve performance and prevent injuries.

Plus, a powerful grip is linked to better overall physical health, including reduced risk of chronic conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis and improved hand dexterity as you age, especially for older women.

Exercises for Grip Strength

Improving your hand grip strength is not a complicated process. The training process is quite simple and there are a variety of exercises to keep it interesting. Below are some of the best compound exercises that also train your lower limbs.

Rack Pulls

Rack pulls are one of the movements to boost your grip strength, you’ll need a barbell and a power rack. Start by setting the barbell on the safety pins just below your knees. Stand close to the bar with your feet hip-width apart, and grip the barbell with an overhand grip (palms facing you) slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.

After you position yourself properly, engage your core, keep your back straight, take a deep breath and lift the barbell by driving your hips forward and straightening your back. Hold the barbell at the top for a few seconds, then lower it back down focusing on the eccentric. Focus on maintaining a strong grip throughout the set to engage your forearm and hand muscles.

Incorporating rack pulls into your weekly workout routine can help strengthen your grip and also target your lower back, glutes, and hamstrings for a well-rounded strength-building exercise.

Farmer’s Carry

The farmer’s carry is one of the best grip exercises. To perform this movement, grab a pair of heavy dumbbells or kettlebells and stand tall with your shoulders, back, and core engaged. Squeeze the weights hard and walk forward for a set distance, like 50 feet or so. Focus on maintaining an upright posture and keeping your shoulders square throughout the whole set.

The weight will challenge your grip strength as you carry them, working those forearm muscles like a champ. The farmer’s carry is a simple yet highly effective exercise that not only targets your grip strength but also engages your core, shoulders, and legs.

Dead Hang

The Dead hang is also an effective and simple exercise for building up that handgrip strength. The way to perform this movement is quite self-explanatory. Go up to a pull-up bar grab it slightly wider than should width, and simply hang for as long as you can.

Within a few sets of these, you will feel your forearms burning.

  • Description:

    You want a forearm workout that leaves you vascular and feeling a burn? Alpha Gripz will help you get there. A product that helps you increase grip strength for various sports.

  • Pros:
    • Super easy to move this equipment around
    • Comes with 4 different levels to work up to
    • Work outside and inside parts of forearm
  • Description:

    Built for versatility, Great Ape Grips offers a comprehensive grip training experience that is an upgraded/mobile version of the classic rice bucket workout!

  • Pros:
    • A new and unique way to train forearms
    • Easy to bring anywhere
    • Minimal Space Required
Best Kettlebell Brand
  • Description:

    Kettlebell training involves dynamic, whole-body movements that enhance strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Its effectiveness for athlete-like conditioning stems from the combination of resistance training and functional movements.

  • Pros:
    • Replaces dumbbells and allows for full body exercise
    • Increase grip strength with various exercises
    • Something for everyone
  • Description:

    Traditional Hand gripper set. Comes with 6 different levels to work up to.

  • Pros:
    • Easy to use
    • Training for every level
    • Cheap and quick delivery for those wanting to start today
Description:

You want a forearm workout that leaves you vascular and feeling a burn? Alpha Gripz will help you get there. A product that helps you increase grip strength for various sports.

Pros:
  • Super easy to move this equipment around
  • Comes with 4 different levels to work up to
  • Work outside and inside parts of forearm
Description:

Built for versatility, Great Ape Grips offers a comprehensive grip training experience that is an upgraded/mobile version of the classic rice bucket workout!

Pros:
  • A new and unique way to train forearms
  • Easy to bring anywhere
  • Minimal Space Required
Best Kettlebell Brand
Description:

Kettlebell training involves dynamic, whole-body movements that enhance strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Its effectiveness for athlete-like conditioning stems from the combination of resistance training and functional movements.

Pros:
  • Replaces dumbbells and allows for full body exercise
  • Increase grip strength with various exercises
  • Something for everyone
Description:

Traditional Hand gripper set. Comes with 6 different levels to work up to.

Pros:
  • Easy to use
  • Training for every level
  • Cheap and quick delivery for those wanting to start today

Frequently Asked Questions

Do strength hand grips work?

Strength hand grips are an effective way of improving your hand and forearm strength. They work by training the muscles in your hands, fingers, and forearms, which can be beneficial for activities like rock climbing, weightlifting, or even just daily tasks that require grip strength like giving a strong handshake.

Using hand grips regularly and progressively increasing the resistance every week can help you build muscle and endurance in those areas. Just like training any other muscle, intensity, consistency, and proper form are key to seeing results.

So, if you’re looking to enhance your grip strength without breaking the bank, a pair of hand grips is a great way to get started.

How long does it take to improve grip strength?

When it comes to building a stronger grip, there are several factors that decide how long it takes before you see an improvement. Some factors include starting strength levels, workout consistency, intensity of training sessions, and also your training program.

Some folks might begin to see improvements within weeks of training. However, for others, it might take a couple of months to see significant progress in their hand grip strength. It’s extremely important to follow a structured training regimen and stick to it, progressively increase the difficulty of exercises, and allow ample time for muscle recovery (at least 48 hours between training sessions)

By staying consistent with your training and practicing good habits, you are sure to make some serious progress within your first month of grip strength training.

What is a good grip strength?

A person’s grip strength can be considered good when it allows them to perform daily tasks comfortably and efficiently without experiencing immediate fatigue or discomfort.

When it comes to grip strength measurement, a dynamometer is used. It also depends on some factors like age and gender. For example, a strong grip strength for an adult male is typically around 105-115 pounds, while for a female, it’s around 60-70 pounds, these ranges are for healthy and active people.

Another way of measuring grip strength is by hold weights in your hands for longer periods of time. The more weight you can hold, the stronger grip strength you have.

However, what’s most important is having a grip strength that supports your activities and overall everyday life functionality. So, focus on building a grip strength that serves your needs and enhances your daily cognitive performance.

Does working on grip strength make my forearms bigger?

Working on grip strength can definitely contribute to building bigger forearms. Many grip exercises, such as deadlifts, farmer’s walks, plate pinches, wrist curls, or just squeezing a tennis ball will engage the muscles in your forearms to support and stabilize your grip, these exercises trigger muscle hypertrophy, which is what builds muscle and muscular strength.

Grip strength is associated with training your forearms, as you consistently train these muscles to improve your grip strength, you’re also likely to see growth and development in your forearm muscles over time. So, if you’re looking to build huge forearms, focusing on a variety of grip strength exercises can be a great way to achieve that goal while enhancing your overall strength and functionality.

Keep showing up and keep up the hard work, and you will notice those forearms getting bigger, stronger, and more defined.

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When it comes to training Brazilian jiu-jitsu, grip strength is an important factor because of the abundance of pulling movements. A weak grip will not allow you to perform these pulling techniques properly, ultimately becoming a compromise on your performance.

Continue reading to learn more about the importance of improving grip strength, how it helps control one’s opponent and also how to actually improve it.

bjj grip strength

Why BJJ Grip Strength Matters

Grip strength is super important in BJJ because it directly affects your ability to control your opponent, execute techniques with efficiency, and maintain dominant positions during matches. A strong grip also enables you to secure holds, defend against your opponent’s attacks, and apply submissions with ease.

Gripping in the Gi

Grip strength is crucial when it comes to grappling in the gi. The strong fabric of the gi provides a lot of gripping opportunities, allowing you to manhandle your opponent, set up submissions, and maintain advantageous positions throughout the match or training session.

A strong grip is essential for using leverage effectively, as it enables you to secure grips on the gi material, and create opportunities to advance your position.

Controlling Opponent’s Movements

When you have a good grip, you can easily grab onto your opponent’s gi or body, limiting their mobility and dictating the pace of the match. With a solid grip, you can effectively manipulate your opponent’s positioning, prevent them from escaping certain positions, and set up your attacks.

Strong grips will allow you to control the flow of the match in all martial arts, create openings for submissions, and maintain dominance throughout the fight.

Exercises to Improve Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Grip Strength

There are a variety of different strength training and dynamic training exercises that efficiently exercise and target your forearm muscle fibers and flexor muscles. These are responsible for the squeezing movement when you grab your opponent in BJJ. Some exercises are:

Alpha Gripz

Alpha Gripz is a very well-known brand mainly known for its equipment specifically designed to train and strengthen your hands and forearms. Chances are, if you are on TikTok, you have seen these things somewhere, they were all over my for you page for weeks. Alpha Gripz are an extensor trainer and help build grips by strengthening and stabilizing your wrists, fingers, and forearms.

These are also great for those suffering from mobility issues like Tendonitis, Tennis Elbow, and Carpal Tunnel. Another great part about Alpha Gripz is the convenience factor, you can use their equipment anytime, anywhere, and when you are done, you can just slide it into your pocket.

X-TREME ALPHA GRIPZ Set
4.4
$49.99

You want a forearm workout that leaves you vascular and feeling a burn? Alpha Gripz will help you get there. A product that helps you increase grip strength for various sports.

Pros:
  • Super easy to move this equipment around
  • Comes with 4 different levels to work up to
  • Work outside and inside parts of forearm
Shop Now
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02/17/2026 07:02 am GMT

Great Ape Grips Rice Bag

The rice bag is one of the most ingenious ways of training your grip strength for BJJ. It is essentially a 3-pound rice bag with a glove-like incision inside where your hand goes. After putting it on, all you have to do is squeeze and you will get a greater contraction than any other equipment.

We took the time to review Great Ape Grips and Alpha Gripz (Alpha Gripz Review) over the past couple of weeks and have been loving the products. It is so easy to get these exercises in while you are doing boring day-to-day tasks or just sitting around at home on the weekends. A forearm workout for about 30 minutes using these devices will have your grip strength for BJJ increasing in no time!

Great Ape Grips
4.5

Built for versatility, Great Ape Grips offers a comprehensive grip training experience that is an upgraded/mobile version of the classic rice bucket workout! CODE: GRAPPLER

Pros:
  • A new and unique way to train forearms
  • Easy to bring anywhere
  • Minimal Space Required
Latest Pricing Video Review

Hand Grippers

Hand grippers are an excellent way of building a strong grip. They are commonly available and won’t hurt your pocket too much either. They are also available in a range of intensities from a beginner level up to an advanced level.

The great part is that you can buy Dial grippers which are adjustable, meaning you do not have to buy several pairs as you get stronger.

Hand Grip Strengthener Set

Traditional Hand gripper set. Comes with 6 different levels to work up to.

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Gi Pull Ups

If all you have is your training Gi and a pull-up bar, that’s all you need for an effective grip training session. Throw your Gi halfway across the pull-up bar and perform Gi pull-ups with a neutral grip.

These are by far one of the most effective exercises that will burn your forearms like no other.

bjj grip strength

Approaching Grip Training for BJJ

When it comes to beginning your grip training for BJJ, it’s essential to perform exercises that mimic the gripping demands of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Incorporating a variety of specific grip training drills into your routine can help you develop the strength and grip endurance required for grappling.

Some excellent exercises include gi pull-ups, farmer’s carries, wrist curls, and also towel hangs. It’s also highly recommended to work on both static(heavyweight) and dynamic grip(low weight) strength to improve your ability to control your opponent properly and execute techniques effectively.

Make sure to gradually increase the intensity and resistance of your grip training over time as you progress, to continue challenging your grip strength.

Why is specific grip training for BJJ so important?

If your grips fail, all your technique goes out of the window. It becomes hard to execute anything. That’s why specific grip training for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is detrimental to practitioners.

In BJJ, your grip strength is a fundamental component that directly impacts your ability to control your opponent, perform submissions, defend against attacks, and leverage their weight to your advantage. You can easily build a strong grip through specific exercises tailored to the demands of BJJ, such as gi pull-ups, towel hangs, and grip strength drills with sparring partners.

With these movements, you can develop the explosive power and grip strength endurance needed to maintain strong grips throughout intense sparring sessions and competitions. Grip development is not beneficial in terms of enhancing your ability to secure submissions and control positions but also helps prevent injuries by providing stability and support during dynamic movements on the mat.

Therefore, it can be concluded that incorporating targeted grip training into your BJJ training regimen can significantly catalyze your performance, enhance your technical execution, and give you a competitive advantage in Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are grip training tools worth the investment?

Grip training tools can be a worthwhile investment for those looking to improve their grip strength quickly. Tools such as grip strengtheners, hand grippers, and forearm trainers, offer a focused and efficient way to work on strengthening the muscles in your fingers, hands, and forearms.

They provide a variety of resistance levels from beginners to advanced intensity to progressively challenge your grip strength over time. Incorporating these grip training tools into your weekly training routine can help enhance your performance in various activities, from sports like rock climbing and ground fighting to everyday tasks like carrying groceries and opening jars.

Additionally, by regularly using these grip tools, you can prevent injuries, improve hand dexterity, and promote overall hand health for a longer period.

How will increasing my grip strength impact my grappling?

Increasing your grip strength can have a huge impact on your grappling performance. When you engage in combat sports that involve groundwork and pulling your opponent like wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or judo, having a strong grip is essential for fully controlling your opponent, executing techniques, and maintaining a strong position.

Having a strong grip allows you to secure holds more effectively, resist your opponent’s attempts to break free, and exert more control during matches, ultimately gaining more points and pins. A powerful grip can also enhance your endurance during grappling sessions, because of your stronger finger flexors, you’ll be able to sustain your holds and maneuvers for longer periods without fatigue.

By starting grip training through specific exercises and training tools, you can level up your grappling game, enhance your performance on the mat, and gain a competitive edge against your opponents.

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In combat sports like boxing, there is a huge risk of injury involved, not just in matches but in training sessions too. This is why there is a wide variety of safety equipment in the market, to help keep you safe from injuries and concussions, especially as a beginner. In this article, you will learn all about the essential boxing equipment you will need to begin and progress at this powerful combat sport.

Boxing Essentials Item Round-Up

Boxing Equipment for Beginners

When it comes to boxing equipment, there is a wide variety of useful pieces of boxing gear in the market. Some of it is crucial like boxing gloves and head guards, some of it not so much, like shin guards and groin protectors.

Read below to learn all about boxing equipment and what you need to start boxing as a beginner.

boxing essentials
Credit: Ed @muls96
 

Boxing Shoes

Boxing shoes hold huge significance when it comes to boxing training and also fights. They are specifically designed to provide stability, support, and grip, which are crucial for quick movements and footwork during a match or a sparring session.

Proper boxing shoes are usually made of durable and lightweight materials like leather or synthetic materials to help boxers move swiftly without feeling weighed down and easy clean-up.

What separates boxing shoes from other types of shoes is the high-top design that offers ankle support to prevent injuries while pivoting and dodging punches. The soles are also designed with a good grip to prevent slipping in the boxing ring.

Best Boxing Shoes [List]

More Options: Best Boxing Shoes

Best Overall Boxing Shoe
Runner Up For Best Overall
Top Rated Adidas Shoe
Best Beginner Option
Best Youth Shoes
Best Overall Boxing Shoe
Primary Rating:
4.8
Pros:
  • Top Rated Boxing Shoe by Grapplers Graveyard
  • Great ankle support
  • Excellent for slim feet
  • Excellent Traction
Runner Up For Best Overall
Primary Rating:
4.6
Pros:
  • Top Rated Boxing Shoe by Grapplers Graveyard
  • Great ankle support and form fit
  • Excellent Traction
  • Beautiful Designs
Top Rated Adidas Shoe
Primary Rating:
4.3
Pros:
  • Top Rated Adidas Shoe on the list
  • Great Ankle support
  • Excellent traction in the ring
  • Lightweight
Best Beginner Option
Primary Rating:
4.2
Pros:
  • Everlast is known for their exceptional quality
  • Many colorway options to choose from
  • Durable and long lasting shoes
Best Youth Shoes
Primary Rating:
4.3
Pros:
  • Great Shoe without having to break the bank
  • Easy to break in

Mouth Guards

Mouthguards are one of the most important pieces of safety equipment in boxing. Their job is to protect your teeth, jaw, and mouth from impacts during boxing training and matches.

Mouthguards are typically made of a moldable material like silicone or ethylene vinyl acetate. EVA mouthguards can be customized to fit your teeth for maximum protection and comfort within a break-in period. The main purpose of a mouthguard is to absorb and disperse the impact of punches to reduce the risk of dental and jaw injuries, and concussions.

Mouthguards also feature shock absorption technology and or airflow channels for better breathability.

Best Mouth Guard

Our Pick
Custom Sports Mouthguards for Athletes

Custom dental grade mouthguards that will fit your mouth perfectly. Breathe better than you have ever before with your mouthguard in

Latest Pricing
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Hand Wraps

Hand wraps are a must-have when it comes to boxing gear. They play a vital role in protecting your hands, wrists, and knuckles from injuries by providing support and stability during punches, all while being under your boxing glove.

Traditional hand wraps are usually crafted from a blend of breathable materials like cotton, polyester, and elastic to offer a snug fit and proper compression

The purpose of wearing hand wraps is to help distribute the impact of punches across your hand, reducing the risk of sprains or fractures in your wrists and knuckles, especially on the heavy bag.

Best Hand Wraps

  • Description:

    Perfect for any workout routine or training session, the smooth fabric conforms to your hands for a comfortable, non-restrictive wrap every time. Complete with a starter thumb loop and reinforced rubberized wrist tab to guarantee a secure fit. Elevate your boxing training equipment today with these top-tier boxer wraps.

  • Pros:
    • Comfort, protection, and support
    • Perfect Stretch Fabric
    • Long Lasting
  • Description:

    These hand wraps for boxing, MMA, Muay Thai, and contact sport training offer incredible support for your wrist, whilst ensuring maximum comfort for a successful workout. Small & Medium sized hand gloves are only recommended for 10 - 14 year olds

  • Pros:
Description:

Perfect for any workout routine or training session, the smooth fabric conforms to your hands for a comfortable, non-restrictive wrap every time. Complete with a starter thumb loop and reinforced rubberized wrist tab to guarantee a secure fit. Elevate your boxing training equipment today with these top-tier boxer wraps.

Pros:
  • Comfort, protection, and support
  • Perfect Stretch Fabric
  • Long Lasting
Description:

Smaller Hands Or Lighter Wrap. 180 inches vs 120 inches. People with smaller hands, kids, women, or simply those who just want a shorter length prefer 120” bandage hand wraps

Pros:
Description:

These hand wraps for boxing, MMA, Muay Thai, and contact sport training offer incredible support for your wrist, whilst ensuring maximum comfort for a successful workout. Small & Medium sized hand gloves are only recommended for 10 - 14 year olds

Pros:

Gloves (Sparring & Training Gloves)

When you start boxing, your first investment should be a pair of sparring gloves and training gloves. Having two pairs for sparring and training are essential for different aspects of your boxing training.

Sparring gloves are designed with extra padding to protect both you and your training partner when you spar. These gloves are heavier and are typically made of high-quality leather or synthetic materials with more cushioning to lessen the impact of punches. These can also be your heavy bag gloves, as they are heavier, you can train on the heavy bag.

On the other hand, training gloves are lighter and more versatile, they can be used for various technique-enhancing aspects of training like focus mitts, or the speed bag. They are also made of durable materials like leather or synthetic blends. Since they have a little less padding to support your hands and wrists during intense workouts, make sure to wear hand wraps.

It is recommended that you get both types of gloves. Both pairs hold huge importance for different stages of boxing training and play a significant role in keeping you safe and enhancing your performance.

Best Boxing Gloves

Highest Quality
Best For Beginners
Best Seller
  • Primary Rating:
    4.7
  • Description:

    Made with high-quality synthetic leather that provides durability and long-lasting performance. The triple-density foam padding offers excellent shock absorption, protecting your hands, wrists, and joints during intense training sessions or fights.

Top Seller
  • Primary Rating:
    4.5
  • Description:

    The Venum Impact is one of their best sellers because of the triple-density foam used to enhance protection and shock absorption in your hands and wrists.

Best Womens Boxing Gloves
  • Primary Rating:
    4.6
  • Description:

    The outer material features a sleek, yet sophisticated, design with a matte finish, making these gloves truly one of a kind. Feel the difference. A narrower shape, premium lining, and padding made specifically for women, unlike unisex gloves made for everyone

Highest Quality
Primary Rating:
4.7
Description:

The Hayabusa T3 boxing gloves are arguably the Rolls Royce of boxing gloves. These luxurious leather bad boys are packed to the brim with premium features.

Best For Beginners
Primary Rating:
3.9
Description:

Everlast gloves are a great budget-friendly option. Everlast training gloves are great for both sparring and bag work.

Best Seller
Primary Rating:
4.7
Description:

Made with high-quality synthetic leather that provides durability and long-lasting performance. The triple-density foam padding offers excellent shock absorption, protecting your hands, wrists, and joints during intense training sessions or fights.

Top Seller
Primary Rating:
4.5
Description:

The Venum Impact is one of their best sellers because of the triple-density foam used to enhance protection and shock absorption in your hands and wrists.

Best Womens Boxing Gloves
Primary Rating:
4.6
Description:

The outer material features a sleek, yet sophisticated, design with a matte finish, making these gloves truly one of a kind. Feel the difference. A narrower shape, premium lining, and padding made specifically for women, unlike unisex gloves made for everyone

Boxing Shorts

Boxing shorts are an important part of a boxer’s training gear. They are designed for comfort, unrestricted movement, flexibility, and breathability during intense training sessions and matches.

Boxing shorts are mostly made from durable, lightweight, and moisture-wicking materials like satin or polyester. Boxing shorts are very breathable which allows freedom of movement and helps keep the boxer cool and dry.

The standout feature of boxing shorts is the wide slide slits, which provide ample room for leg movement and prevent any restrictions while throwing punches or moving around.

Best Boxing Shorts

Our Pick
Best Designs
  • Description:

    Stay cool and comfortable with Hayabusa's MMA fight and athletic shorts. Perfect for everyday training and even pro fights, Hayabusa workout shorts are built to last with virtually indestructible fabric and a silicone waistband to keep them locked in place. 

  • Description:

    FUJI is one of the most well-known brands in the martial arts space. If you are looking for a staple product and a high-quality pair of shorts, FUJI has you covered.

  • Description:

    Why do you need high-quality, comfortable and classy BJJ shorts? Because when you’re on the mat, you’re in your second home, your battlefield and your safe haven. You want to always be prepared for what is going to be thrown at you and any and every hindrance in your way can result in your defeat. 

Minimilist Designs
Our Pick
Description:

Use code 'GRAPPLERSGRAVEYARD' to save 15% on your entire purchase

Description:

Use code 'GRAPPLERGRAVEYARD' to save at checkout

Best Designs
Description:

Use code 'GRAPPLERS' to save 10% on your entire order

Description:

Stay cool and comfortable with Hayabusa's MMA fight and athletic shorts. Perfect for everyday training and even pro fights, Hayabusa workout shorts are built to last with virtually indestructible fabric and a silicone waistband to keep them locked in place. 

Description:

FUJI is one of the most well-known brands in the martial arts space. If you are looking for a staple product and a high-quality pair of shorts, FUJI has you covered.

Description:

Why do you need high-quality, comfortable and classy BJJ shorts? Because when you’re on the mat, you’re in your second home, your battlefield and your safe haven. You want to always be prepared for what is going to be thrown at you and any and every hindrance in your way can result in your defeat. 

Minimilist Designs
Description:

Board short inspired, IBJJF legal fight shorts for No-Gi training. Made with a bit less stretch than their Classic Fight Shorts, the brand new Pacific Shorts will be your new daily go-to pair.

Cup or Groin Protector

Groin protectors are extremely important in boxing to safeguard against low blows and accidental hits to the sensitive groin area in the boxing gym.

These cups are mostly made of hard plastic or metal encased in a padded shell to absorb impact and protect the boxer from any kind of serious injury. Groin protectors are worn underneath the boxing shorts and provide an extra layer of defense during sparring sessions or matches, you can never be too safe.

Some groin protectors also come with adjustable straps for a secure and comfortable fit, ensuring maximum protection and freedom of movement.

  • Description:

    Developed alongside first-class boxers, the Pro Boxing Groin Protector perfects a traditional design that boxing purists love. Sleek, lightweight, and incredibly comfortable, this groin guard delivers professional protection with a reinforced padded cup and full coverage padding to shield your hips and kidneys. Protects your balls from getting kicked so yeah, don't want that to happen...

  • Description:

    The lightweight groin protector is designed to provide extended coverage to the lower abdomen along with serving its core purpose of protecting your crown jewels. Don't take the risk of never having lineage coming from your genes... it's probably smart to buy this.

Description:

Developed alongside first-class boxers, the Pro Boxing Groin Protector perfects a traditional design that boxing purists love. Sleek, lightweight, and incredibly comfortable, this groin guard delivers professional protection with a reinforced padded cup and full coverage padding to shield your hips and kidneys. Protects your balls from getting kicked so yeah, don't want that to happen...

Description:

The lightweight groin protector is designed to provide extended coverage to the lower abdomen along with serving its core purpose of protecting your crown jewels. Don't take the risk of never having lineage coming from your genes... it's probably smart to buy this.

Shin Guards (Kick Boxing & Muay Thai)

Shin guards play a vital role in kickboxing and Muay Thai training. They provide essential protection to the shins and lower legs from the impact of hard strikes and blocks.

These guards are typically crafted from robust and highly durable materials such as synthetic leather and foam padding. These materials are excellent for absorption and effectively dispersing the force of kicks during sparring sessions and drills. The main purpose of wearing shin guards is the additional cushioning you get. This cushioning reduces the likelihood of injuries like bruises or cuts that may occur during intense training.

Some shin guards also feature adjustable straps to ensure a secure fit and unrestricted movement, enhancing both safety and performance for kickboxing and Muay Thai practitioners in the ring.

Best Shin Guards

Best Overall
  • Description:

    Venum Elite shin guards are skillfully handmade in Thailand to provide our elite fighters with the best fighting equipment. Made with 100% Skintex leather, our elite standup shin guards combine comfort and great durability at an affordable price.

  • Pros:
    • Premium skintex leather construction
    • High Density foam with additional padding for enhanced shock Absorption
    • Lightweight design
Best Design
  • Description:

    Take your training to the next level with T3 Full Back Shin Guards. Its multi-layered padding conforms to your leg, delivering remarkable impact absorption and protection when you throw a powerful kick. Secured in place with a breathable stretch sleeve, these shin guards provide the ultimate locked-in fit for rigorous training.

  • Pros:
    • Durable, lightweight, and comfortable
    • Breathable sleeves conform to your calves making them extremely comfortable
    • Deliver full coverage protection with a pre-curved design
Best Budget Brand
  • Description:
  • Pros:
    • Constructed of Premium Leather with velcro strap
    • Pre-curved, flexible and lightweight for optimal mobility with a secure fit
    • Perfect choice for MMA shin guards, kickboxing shin guards, and Muay Thai shin guards
    • Affordable Priced Gear
  • Description:

    Level up your shin protection with the RDX AURA Plus T-17 Shin Instep. CE and UKCA certified, it offers cushioned support, comfort, and breathability for both your shins and instep. Trusted by millions of martial artists around the world

  • Pros:
    • Made with leather for superior durability
    • Adjustable EZ Hook and Loop strap system for a secure and stable fit
    • Highly absorbent moulded foam for unbeatable protection
  • Description:

    Essential Hybrid Shin Guards are designed to serve as either MMA or kickboxing shin guards. Less Adjusting, More Training. Neoprene sleeve design with top leg fastener and proprietary mid leg fastener means you won’t break your rhythm to readjust every few minutes

  • Pros:
    • Leather construction
    • Durasoft impact-protection foam
    • Comfortable fit and easy to train in
    • Lightweight
Best Overall
Description:

Venum Elite shin guards are skillfully handmade in Thailand to provide our elite fighters with the best fighting equipment. Made with 100% Skintex leather, our elite standup shin guards combine comfort and great durability at an affordable price.

Pros:
  • Premium skintex leather construction
  • High Density foam with additional padding for enhanced shock Absorption
  • Lightweight design
Best Design
Description:

Take your training to the next level with T3 Full Back Shin Guards. Its multi-layered padding conforms to your leg, delivering remarkable impact absorption and protection when you throw a powerful kick. Secured in place with a breathable stretch sleeve, these shin guards provide the ultimate locked-in fit for rigorous training.

Pros:
  • Durable, lightweight, and comfortable
  • Breathable sleeves conform to your calves making them extremely comfortable
  • Deliver full coverage protection with a pre-curved design
Best Budget Brand
Description:
Pros:
  • Constructed of Premium Leather with velcro strap
  • Pre-curved, flexible and lightweight for optimal mobility with a secure fit
  • Perfect choice for MMA shin guards, kickboxing shin guards, and Muay Thai shin guards
  • Affordable Priced Gear
Description:

Level up your shin protection with the RDX AURA Plus T-17 Shin Instep. CE and UKCA certified, it offers cushioned support, comfort, and breathability for both your shins and instep. Trusted by millions of martial artists around the world

Pros:
  • Made with leather for superior durability
  • Adjustable EZ Hook and Loop strap system for a secure and stable fit
  • Highly absorbent moulded foam for unbeatable protection
Description:

Essential Hybrid Shin Guards are designed to serve as either MMA or kickboxing shin guards. Less Adjusting, More Training. Neoprene sleeve design with top leg fastener and proprietary mid leg fastener means you won’t break your rhythm to readjust every few minutes

Pros:
  • Leather construction
  • Durasoft impact-protection foam
  • Comfortable fit and easy to train in
  • Lightweight

Head Protection

Headgear is an essential boxing equipment, especially if you need to start boxing as a beginner. It provides vital protection for the head and face during sparring and training sessions.

Headgear is typically made of durable materials such as leather or synthetic materials that will last you years of rough use. It is designed to absorb and distribute the impact of punches, thereby reducing the risk of head injuries and concussions.

An important feature of headgear is the strategically placed padding around the cheeks, forehead, and ears, which aims to cushion blows and minimize the likelihood of cuts and bruises.

Furthermore, many headgear designs come with adjustable straps and enhanced padding for a secure and comfortable fit, enabling boxers to concentrate on their training with peace of mind.

Best Head Protection

  • Description:

    The best headgear in the world is now handcrafted with the finest quality leather. Designed with you in mind, Hayabusa Headgear offers low-profile, full-face protection with a broad field of vision. Vented mesh ears and an open top keep you cool and comfortable while you spar so that you can keep your head in the game.

  • Pros:
    • Handcrafted with the finest quality leather
    • Low profile design maximizes strike deflection
    • Soft thermal lining helps to regulate your temperature
  • Description:

    Pre-curved technology allows your protective head guard to naturally fit the shape of your head, regardless of your head size & shape. Ultra-lightweight allows for you to increase the speed of your head movements.

  • Pros:
    • Fits well to your head
    • Lightweight for increased speed and head movements
    • Affordable Price
Best For Amateur Fights
  • Description:

    Crafted from natural grain cowhide leather, available in multiple colors, it ensures unmatched protection and visibility. The innovative design includes padding around ear channels for added safety.

  • Pros:
    • IBA Approved for amateur competitions
    • Natural grain cowhide leather in blue and red
    • Designed for optimal protection & visibility
  • Description:

    Designed in Thailand and constructed with 100% Skintex leather. The ultra-lightweight headgear allows for improved head movement and visibility of your opponent. Keep your head in the game with the Venum Challenger 2.0 headgear.

  • Pros:
    • Ultra lightweight
    • Triple density contoured foam
    • Flexible two way Velcro closure
Description:

The best headgear in the world is now handcrafted with the finest quality leather. Designed with you in mind, Hayabusa Headgear offers low-profile, full-face protection with a broad field of vision. Vented mesh ears and an open top keep you cool and comfortable while you spar so that you can keep your head in the game.

Pros:
  • Handcrafted with the finest quality leather
  • Low profile design maximizes strike deflection
  • Soft thermal lining helps to regulate your temperature
Description:

Pre-curved technology allows your protective head guard to naturally fit the shape of your head, regardless of your head size & shape. Ultra-lightweight allows for you to increase the speed of your head movements.

Pros:
  • Fits well to your head
  • Lightweight for increased speed and head movements
  • Affordable Price
Description:

Whether it’s Boxing, Kickboxing, Muay Thai or any other contact sport, Essential Head Gear provides excellent full-face coverage and protection while training or sparring

Pros:
  • Highly Functional Design
  • Versatile Boxing Head Gear: For multiple striking sports
  • Affordable Price
Best For Amateur Fights
Description:

Crafted from natural grain cowhide leather, available in multiple colors, it ensures unmatched protection and visibility. The innovative design includes padding around ear channels for added safety.

Pros:
  • IBA Approved for amateur competitions
  • Natural grain cowhide leather in blue and red
  • Designed for optimal protection & visibility
Description:

Designed in Thailand and constructed with 100% Skintex leather. The ultra-lightweight headgear allows for improved head movement and visibility of your opponent. Keep your head in the game with the Venum Challenger 2.0 headgear.

Pros:
  • Ultra lightweight
  • Triple density contoured foam
  • Flexible two way Velcro closure

Why Start Boxing?

Boxing is arguably one of the best and most useful combat sports. It is an excellent way of building confidence by learning self-defense.

It is one of the best ways to stay fit, young, and active and build some serious strength, alongside an aesthetic physique. Boxing is a very physically demanding sport, a good training session will have a gasping for air and drenched in sweat within minutes. This makes it a great way to lose weight.

Alongside all this, there are the mental benefits. Boxing can help you build unshakable confidence and impeccable discipline. It is also an amazing stress reliever for anxiety and anger, there is nothing like hitting a punching bag as hard as you can.

So if you’re looking to start a combat sport, that isn’t as technical as most martial arts, you need to start boxing.

boxing essentials
Credit: Ed @muls96

What type of boxing gloves should I get?

To choose the right pair of gloves, it’s essential to consider factors like your training goals, and experience level.

For beginners, a good choice is to go for standard training gloves with enough padding to protect your hands and wrists during practice sessions.

If you’re more focused on sparring, you can get sparring gloves that offer extra padding for both you and your partner’s safety.

Additionally, if you’re into heavy bag training, heavier bag gloves can be a great option to provide the necessary protection and stability.

(Optional) At Home Equipment

When it comes to boxing, you do not need the best boxing equipment out there to make progress, neither do you need a gym.

In fact, with just of a bit of boxing gear, you can make some huge progress in the comfort of your own home. A pair of boxing gloves, traditional hand wraps and a punching bag is pretty much all you need to start boxing.

Punching Bags (Heavy Bags)

Getting a heavy bag for your home gym is one of the best ways to make some serious progress as a beginner. Especially if you are intimated by boxing gyms.

Heavy punching bags are great for building strength in your punches and kicks and also improving your technique. Just make sure to hang the bag safely and securely to protect yourself and also your home space.

Best Punching Bags

More Options: Best Punching Bags

Best Overall Option
  • Description:

    Whatever your training goal is, a FUJI punching bag is a reliable choice. Use Code 'GRAVEYARD' to save 5% on your purchase

  • Description:

    Its height and higher weight make it a popular tool for practicing a wide range of strikes and techniques. This bag provides the ultimate training goal, by withstanding intense workout pressures and challenging your workout skills.

  • Description:

    The UFC also has its own lineup of traditional punching bags ranging from 70-100lbs.

Best Heavy Bag
  • Description:

    The comfortable thick padding will maximize your training experience, and allow you to work on your offense while minimizing unnecessary discomfort.

Best Overall Option
Primary Rating:
4.5
$299.00
Description:

Whatever your training goal is, a FUJI punching bag is a reliable choice. Use Code 'GRAVEYARD' to save 5% on your purchase

Primary Rating:
4.4
$246.99
Description:

Its height and higher weight make it a popular tool for practicing a wide range of strikes and techniques. This bag provides the ultimate training goal, by withstanding intense workout pressures and challenging your workout skills.

Primary Rating:
4.2
N/A
Description:

The UFC also has its own lineup of traditional punching bags ranging from 70-100lbs.

Best Heavy Bag
Primary Rating:
4.4
$144.99
Description:

The comfortable thick padding will maximize your training experience, and allow you to work on your offense while minimizing unnecessary discomfort.

02/17/2026 10:03 am GMT

Jump Rope

You will often see experienced boxers skipping regularly. This is because it’s a full-body workout that enhances your footwork, agility, coordination, and cardiovascular endurance.

You can use jump ropes to improve your timing, rhythm, and overall conditioning, all of which are essential in the ring. Skipping also helps strengthen the muscles in your legs, core, and shoulders, contributing to better balance and stability in the ring.

It’s a versatile and portable piece of equipment that you can use anywhere, making it a convenient and effective training tool for boxers of all levels.

Best Speed Rope

At-Home Training Programs (Are they Worth it)

At-home training programs are an excellent choice for beginners. They offer flexibility, convenience, and the ability to train without the need to go to a gym. With a good program, you can gain access to a variety of workouts tailored to your fitness level and goals. These can also include boxing-specific drills and routines that can help you improve your skills and stay in shape.

Many programs also provide guidance from experienced trainers, nutrition tips, and progress tracking to help you stay motivated and keep you accountable.

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Over the past few years, Muay Thai has been gaining some serious mainstream popularity. The unique training and fighting style has attracted many enthusiasts to visit and train in Thailand.

Just like any other combat sport, Muay Thai also requires a variety of training equipment to help you stay safe and progress in a quicker manner. Read below to learn all about the Muay Thai gear essentials, and their importance.

Did you know that you can get a 90-day visa to stay in the country just to learn Muay Thai in Thailand? The news, just broke that Thailand increased the amount of time people are allowed to stay in the country from 60 to 90 days and it’s tempting to go out there to learn in the motherland.

Here is a list of the 17 Best Muay Thai Camps: when you take your trip, you only go with the best!

muay thai, combat sport, gyms in thailand

Muay Thai Essentials: Item Round-Up

muay thai essentials
Credit: David Picton

Must-Have Muay Thai Training Equipment [List]

Gloves

Gloves are essential when it comes to Muay Thai training gear. A good pair of gloves will play a crucial role in protecting your hands and wrists from injuries while also safeguarding your training partner during intense sparring sessions.

When choosing sparring gloves for Muay Thai training, it’s important to look for a pair with good padding to absorb impact well. You should also look for a secure wrist closure for stability, and that the gloves fit snugly. If your gloves are too tight they will restrict hand and finger movement, if they are too loose they will move around during combat.

Muay Thai gloves are usually made of durable leather or synthetic leather, and some pairs even have mesh panels for better breathability.

Unlike boxing gloves, Muay Thai gloves have an open palm and open finger design for a better range of motion. They also have a thinner wrist closure so the wrists are not restricted, whereas boxing gloves have longer and thicker cuffs.

Best Training Gloves [List]

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Muay Thai Shorts

Muay Thai shorts are a must-have piece of training equipment. These shorts are specially designed with Muay Thai in mind to provide comfort, protection, flexibility, and freedom of movement during training sessions and fights.

These shorts are typically made from lightweight and durable materials like satin or nylon, allowing for ease of movement and breathability in the ring. Muay Thai shorts feature a wide elastic waistband and high-side slits to ensure unrestricted knee strikes and kicks.

Additionally, these shorts come in vibrant colors and unique designs, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of this Thailand-originating sport.

Best Muay Thai Shorts

  • Description:

    These are traditional mid-thigh Muay Thai shorts made for Muay Thai, Kickboxing, and MMA practitioners of any level. The Hayabusa Falcon Muay Thai, Kickboxing, and MMA shorts fit and feel great and will give you the full range of motion you need for Muay Thai training.

  • Pros:
  • Description:

    Fairtex Muay Thai Shorts are made from high-quality satin for durability and a sleek, professional look. These shorts feature a traditional Muay Thai design with intricate embroidery and detailing. The elastic waistband and drawstring ensure a secure and comfortable fit.

  • Pros:
  • Description:

    Venum Classic Muay Thai Shorts are a must-have for all Thai Boxing practitioners looking for shorts with great value! Made in Thailand, these Venum Thai Boxing Shorts have been crafted from a lightweight and flexible polyester to leave you free to move.

  • Pros:
    • Light and Flexible
    • Specifically designed to increase your mobility in the ring.
    • Wide traditional belt with a tightening cord: for optimal support of the shorts around the waist.
Description:

These are traditional mid-thigh Muay Thai shorts made for Muay Thai, Kickboxing, and MMA practitioners of any level. The Hayabusa Falcon Muay Thai, Kickboxing, and MMA shorts fit and feel great and will give you the full range of motion you need for Muay Thai training.

Pros:
Description:

Fairtex Muay Thai Shorts are made from high-quality satin for durability and a sleek, professional look. These shorts feature a traditional Muay Thai design with intricate embroidery and detailing. The elastic waistband and drawstring ensure a secure and comfortable fit.

Pros:
Description:

Venum Classic Muay Thai Shorts are a must-have for all Thai Boxing practitioners looking for shorts with great value! Made in Thailand, these Venum Thai Boxing Shorts have been crafted from a lightweight and flexible polyester to leave you free to move.

Pros:
  • Light and Flexible
  • Specifically designed to increase your mobility in the ring.
  • Wide traditional belt with a tightening cord: for optimal support of the shorts around the waist.
Description:

Train Jiu-Jitsu, Muay-Thai, MMA, Boxing, or just go for a plain run, these polyester built shorts with heavy-duty microfibers promises max results and utility! 

Pros:

Shin Pads

In Muay Thai, shin pads are an important piece of training equipment to protect your shins and lower legs, during sparring and training sessions. There is a lot of kicking involved in Muay Thai, why is why shin pads are essential for reducing the risk of injuries like bruising, cuts, and even fractures.

They are usually made with durable materials like synthetic leather or foam padding to provide enough protection without compromising mobility. Some shin pads may have additional features like adjustable straps for a secure fit, reinforced padding for extra protection, and ventilation channels to keep your legs cool and comfortable during intense training sessions.

Best Shin Pads

  1. Top King
  2. Fairtex
  3. Venum
  4. Hayabusa
  5. Sanabul
Best Overall
  • Description:

    Venum Elite shin guards are skillfully handmade in Thailand to provide our elite fighters with the best fighting equipment. Made with 100% Skintex leather, our elite standup shin guards combine comfort and great durability at an affordable price.

  • Pros:
    • Premium skintex leather construction
    • High Density foam with additional padding for enhanced shock Absorption
    • Lightweight design
Best Design
  • Description:

    Take your training to the next level with T3 Full Back Shin Guards. Its multi-layered padding conforms to your leg, delivering remarkable impact absorption and protection when you throw a powerful kick. Secured in place with a breathable stretch sleeve, these shin guards provide the ultimate locked-in fit for rigorous training.

  • Pros:
    • Durable, lightweight, and comfortable
    • Breathable sleeves conform to your calves making them extremely comfortable
    • Deliver full coverage protection with a pre-curved design
Best Budget Brand
  • Description:
  • Pros:
    • Constructed of Premium Leather with velcro strap
    • Pre-curved, flexible and lightweight for optimal mobility with a secure fit
    • Perfect choice for MMA shin guards, kickboxing shin guards, and Muay Thai shin guards
    • Affordable Priced Gear
  • Description:

    Level up your shin protection with the RDX AURA Plus T-17 Shin Instep. CE and UKCA certified, it offers cushioned support, comfort, and breathability for both your shins and instep. Trusted by millions of martial artists around the world

  • Pros:
    • Made with leather for superior durability
    • Adjustable EZ Hook and Loop strap system for a secure and stable fit
    • Highly absorbent moulded foam for unbeatable protection
  • Description:

    Essential Hybrid Shin Guards are designed to serve as either MMA or kickboxing shin guards. Less Adjusting, More Training. Neoprene sleeve design with top leg fastener and proprietary mid leg fastener means you won’t break your rhythm to readjust every few minutes

  • Pros:
    • Leather construction
    • Durasoft impact-protection foam
    • Comfortable fit and easy to train in
    • Lightweight
Best Overall
Description:

Venum Elite shin guards are skillfully handmade in Thailand to provide our elite fighters with the best fighting equipment. Made with 100% Skintex leather, our elite standup shin guards combine comfort and great durability at an affordable price.

Pros:
  • Premium skintex leather construction
  • High Density foam with additional padding for enhanced shock Absorption
  • Lightweight design
Best Design
Description:

Take your training to the next level with T3 Full Back Shin Guards. Its multi-layered padding conforms to your leg, delivering remarkable impact absorption and protection when you throw a powerful kick. Secured in place with a breathable stretch sleeve, these shin guards provide the ultimate locked-in fit for rigorous training.

Pros:
  • Durable, lightweight, and comfortable
  • Breathable sleeves conform to your calves making them extremely comfortable
  • Deliver full coverage protection with a pre-curved design
Best Budget Brand
Description:
Pros:
  • Constructed of Premium Leather with velcro strap
  • Pre-curved, flexible and lightweight for optimal mobility with a secure fit
  • Perfect choice for MMA shin guards, kickboxing shin guards, and Muay Thai shin guards
  • Affordable Priced Gear
Description:

Level up your shin protection with the RDX AURA Plus T-17 Shin Instep. CE and UKCA certified, it offers cushioned support, comfort, and breathability for both your shins and instep. Trusted by millions of martial artists around the world

Pros:
  • Made with leather for superior durability
  • Adjustable EZ Hook and Loop strap system for a secure and stable fit
  • Highly absorbent moulded foam for unbeatable protection
Description:

Essential Hybrid Shin Guards are designed to serve as either MMA or kickboxing shin guards. Less Adjusting, More Training. Neoprene sleeve design with top leg fastener and proprietary mid leg fastener means you won’t break your rhythm to readjust every few minutes

Pros:
  • Leather construction
  • Durasoft impact-protection foam
  • Comfortable fit and easy to train in
  • Lightweight

Hand Wraps

Wearing a good pair of hand wraps under your gloves is crucial in Muay Thai. They provide crucial support and protection to your knuckles, fingers, and wrists during intense training sessions and fights.

The wraps are typically made from a blend of cotton and elastic materials, offering a comfortable and secure fit. By properly wrapping your hands you can help prevent injuries such as sprains, fractures, and tendon damage.

Additionally, hand wraps also help distribute the impact of punches evenly which reduces the strain on your hands and wrists. They come with thumb loops for easy and tight wrapping and Velcro closures for a customizable fit.

Best Hand Wraps [List]

  • Description:

    Perfect for any workout routine or training session, the smooth fabric conforms to your hands for a comfortable, non-restrictive wrap every time. Complete with a starter thumb loop and reinforced rubberized wrist tab to guarantee a secure fit. Elevate your boxing training equipment today with these top-tier boxer wraps.

  • Pros:
    • Comfort, protection, and support
    • Perfect Stretch Fabric
    • Long Lasting
  • Description:

    These hand wraps for boxing, MMA, Muay Thai, and contact sport training offer incredible support for your wrist, whilst ensuring maximum comfort for a successful workout. Small & Medium sized hand gloves are only recommended for 10 - 14 year olds

  • Pros:
Description:

Perfect for any workout routine or training session, the smooth fabric conforms to your hands for a comfortable, non-restrictive wrap every time. Complete with a starter thumb loop and reinforced rubberized wrist tab to guarantee a secure fit. Elevate your boxing training equipment today with these top-tier boxer wraps.

Pros:
  • Comfort, protection, and support
  • Perfect Stretch Fabric
  • Long Lasting
Description:

Smaller Hands Or Lighter Wrap. 180 inches vs 120 inches. People with smaller hands, kids, women, or simply those who just want a shorter length prefer 120” bandage hand wraps

Pros:
Description:

These hand wraps for boxing, MMA, Muay Thai, and contact sport training offer incredible support for your wrist, whilst ensuring maximum comfort for a successful workout. Small & Medium sized hand gloves are only recommended for 10 - 14 year olds

Pros:

Mouth Guard

Mouthguards are a must-have for Muay Thai fighters. They are responsible for protecting your teeth, gums, and jaw from impact during sparring and fights.

They are typically made from durable materials like silicone or EVA, which provide adequate cushioning and shock absorption to reduce the risk of any dental injuries. These mouthguards can be custom-made to fit your teeth for a more comfortable and secure fit, allowing you to breathe better and speak easily while wearing them.

Some mouthguards also have unique aspects like ventilation channels for improved airflow and antimicrobial properties to prevent bacteria growth.

Best Mouthguard

  • Impact Mouth Guards [Only Recommendation]

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Custom dental grade mouthguards that will fit your mouth perfectly. Breathe better than you have ever before with your mouthguard in

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Ankle Wraps

Ankle wraps hold their fair share of importance in Muay Thai training. They provide extra support and stability to your feet and ankles, reducing the chance of injuries like sprains and twists during intense sparring sessions.

Ankle wraps are mostly crafted from elastic and neoprene materials, which allows them to offer a snug and comfortable fit while allowing for unrestricted flexibility and movement. Their sole purpose is to compress the ankle joint, this reduces the risk of overextension and providing extra reinforcement during pivots and quick movements in the ring.

Some ankle wraps come with features like adjustable straps for a personalized fit and moisture-wicking properties to keep your ankles dry and comfortable.

Best Ankle Wraps [List]

Gym Bag

As a Muay Thai athlete, or someone who seriously participates in combat sports, you are bound to have a variety of training equipment. This is why having a good-sized gym bag is important, it should contain everything you need for a full-range training session.

Although you could get a normal gym bag with one big pocket, you could also get one with a specific zipper to keep your shoes. Some bags even have a waterproof zipper inside to keep your phone, wallet, keys, or earbuds safe from moisture.

Head Gear

Headgear is a crucial piece of training equipment, especially for Muay Thai beginners. It plays a vital role in protecting your head, ears, jaw, and face from impact during sparring and training sessions.

Made of durable synthetic leather or foam padding, headgear provides cushioning and shock absorption to reduce the risk of head injuries. It is designed to cover the top of your head, cheeks, chin, and ears, offering full protection while maintaining visibility and breathability.

Some headgear also comes with adjustable straps for a secure fit, ear guards to prevent injuries, and lightweight but padded designs for enhanced comfort during long training sessions.

Best Protective Headgear [List]

  • Description:

    The best headgear in the world is now handcrafted with the finest quality leather. Designed with you in mind, Hayabusa Headgear offers low-profile, full-face protection with a broad field of vision. Vented mesh ears and an open top keep you cool and comfortable while you spar so that you can keep your head in the game.

  • Pros:
    • Handcrafted with the finest quality leather
    • Low profile design maximizes strike deflection
    • Soft thermal lining helps to regulate your temperature
  • Description:

    Pre-curved technology allows your protective head guard to naturally fit the shape of your head, regardless of your head size & shape. Ultra-lightweight allows for you to increase the speed of your head movements.

  • Pros:
    • Fits well to your head
    • Lightweight for increased speed and head movements
    • Affordable Price
Best For Amateur Fights
  • Description:

    Crafted from natural grain cowhide leather, available in multiple colors, it ensures unmatched protection and visibility. The innovative design includes padding around ear channels for added safety.

  • Pros:
    • IBA Approved for amateur competitions
    • Natural grain cowhide leather in blue and red
    • Designed for optimal protection & visibility
  • Description:

    Designed in Thailand and constructed with 100% Skintex leather. The ultra-lightweight headgear allows for improved head movement and visibility of your opponent. Keep your head in the game with the Venum Challenger 2.0 headgear.

  • Pros:
    • Ultra lightweight
    • Triple density contoured foam
    • Flexible two way Velcro closure
Description:

The best headgear in the world is now handcrafted with the finest quality leather. Designed with you in mind, Hayabusa Headgear offers low-profile, full-face protection with a broad field of vision. Vented mesh ears and an open top keep you cool and comfortable while you spar so that you can keep your head in the game.

Pros:
  • Handcrafted with the finest quality leather
  • Low profile design maximizes strike deflection
  • Soft thermal lining helps to regulate your temperature
Description:

Pre-curved technology allows your protective head guard to naturally fit the shape of your head, regardless of your head size & shape. Ultra-lightweight allows for you to increase the speed of your head movements.

Pros:
  • Fits well to your head
  • Lightweight for increased speed and head movements
  • Affordable Price
Description:

Whether it’s Boxing, Kickboxing, Muay Thai or any other contact sport, Essential Head Gear provides excellent full-face coverage and protection while training or sparring

Pros:
  • Highly Functional Design
  • Versatile Boxing Head Gear: For multiple striking sports
  • Affordable Price
Best For Amateur Fights
Description:

Crafted from natural grain cowhide leather, available in multiple colors, it ensures unmatched protection and visibility. The innovative design includes padding around ear channels for added safety.

Pros:
  • IBA Approved for amateur competitions
  • Natural grain cowhide leather in blue and red
  • Designed for optimal protection & visibility
Description:

Designed in Thailand and constructed with 100% Skintex leather. The ultra-lightweight headgear allows for improved head movement and visibility of your opponent. Keep your head in the game with the Venum Challenger 2.0 headgear.

Pros:
  • Ultra lightweight
  • Triple density contoured foam
  • Flexible two way Velcro closure

Groin Guard or Cup

In combat sports, there is a huge risk of getting hit in the extremely painful crotch area, this is where a groin guard comes in. They provide essential protection for the groin area, safeguarding against accidental hits and strikes during training sessions and fights.

These groin guards are mostly made from sturdy materials like synthetic leather or hard plastic, offering impact resistance and shock absorption to reduce the risk of serious injuries. Designed to fit securely and comfortably for every athlete, groin guards ensure freedom of movement while ensuring maximum protection.

Groin guards also come with a few unique features like adjustable waistbands for a personalized fit, ventilation panels for better breathability, and ergonomic designs for enhanced comfort.

Hayabusa Pro Boxing Groin Protector

The Hayabusa Pro Boxing Groin Protector is a top-notch piece of gear. It’s designed to offer the maximum protection needed for the groin area during intense training and fights.

It is crafted from high-quality materials like durable synthetic leather and multi-layer foam padding. This offers superior impact resistance and shock absorption to keep your crotch area safe from unexpected hits. This Groin Protector features a sleek and ergonomic design for a comfortable and secure fit, without compromising on protection.

It also comes with adjustable straps for a personalized fit and enhanced stability. Overall, this groin protector is a must-have for any serious Muay Thai enthusiast looking for reliable protection in the ring.

  • Description:

    Developed alongside first-class boxers, the Pro Boxing Groin Protector perfects a traditional design that boxing purists love. Sleek, lightweight, and incredibly comfortable, this groin guard delivers professional protection with a reinforced padded cup and full coverage padding to shield your hips and kidneys. Protects your balls from getting kicked so yeah, don't want that to happen...

  • Description:

    The lightweight groin protector is designed to provide extended coverage to the lower abdomen along with serving its core purpose of protecting your crown jewels. Don't take the risk of never having lineage coming from your genes... it's probably smart to buy this.

Description:

Developed alongside first-class boxers, the Pro Boxing Groin Protector perfects a traditional design that boxing purists love. Sleek, lightweight, and incredibly comfortable, this groin guard delivers professional protection with a reinforced padded cup and full coverage padding to shield your hips and kidneys. Protects your balls from getting kicked so yeah, don't want that to happen...

Description:

The lightweight groin protector is designed to provide extended coverage to the lower abdomen along with serving its core purpose of protecting your crown jewels. Don't take the risk of never having lineage coming from your genes... it's probably smart to buy this.

muay thai essentials
Credit: David Picton

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I start Muay Thai with no experience?

You can definitely start Muay Thai with no prior Martial arts experience. Many gyms and training centers offer classes that cater to beginners, where experienced instructors will teach and guide you through the basics and help you gradually build your skills and confidence.

Starting from scratch is a great way to learn the fundamentals of Muay Thai, improve your fitness, and develop basic skills and techniques.

Should I do Muay Thai with or without shoes?

Your priority should always be to train safely. If you do not wear shoes, you will get better grip and develop a better mind-muscle connection with the ground. This will allow you to get a more natural feel for the sport and progress quicker.

However, some gyms may have policies regarding bare-foot training, so make sure to ask a trainer what they recommend for you.

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Like all combat sports and Martial arts, wrestling has just many risks of getting injured. It is common for wrestlers to deal with problems like bruises, rashes, sprains, cuts, and much more.

However, if you focused on wearing adequate protective gear, you would have to worry less about these issues. Instead, you could confidently train and progress in your wrestling journey.

In this article, we will be covering all the wrestling equipment essentials you will need to get started, what each piece of equipment is for, and the best brands to buy it from.

wrestling essentials
Credit: Danny Phillips

Wrestling Essentials

Wrestling is like any other combat sport or Martial Art, which is why you need to get some safety gear, especially if you are a beginner at a young age.

Remember, you do not need to get the whole wrestling gear catalog of a store, instead, a handful of the wrestling equipment essentials will do the trick.

Essentials like knee pads, headgear, wrestling mats, shoes, grappling shorts and wrestling singlets if you plan to compete soon are all you need to progress at wrestling while being safe.

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Wrestling Knee Pads

Knee pads are an important piece of gear in amateur wrestling! They play an important role in protecting your knees from impact, friction, and injuries during intense training sessions and matches.

Knee pads are typically made from durable materials like neoprene or foam padding to provide adequate cushioning and support while allowing for flexibility and unrestricted movement. They also feature reinforced stitching for extra durability, secure straps to keep them in place during high-velocity movements, and a snug fit to prevent slippage.

By wearing knee pads, you can confidently execute takedowns, sprawls, and other techniques efficiently, without worrying about discomfort or potential knee injuries.

Best Wrestling Knee Pads

wrestling essentials
Credit: Danny Phillips

Wrestling Headgear

Wrestling headgear is a must-have piece of equipment for amateur wrestlers! Its main purpose is to protect your ears from getting injured or damaged during training or matches, especially when executing takedowns or grappling on the mat. Combined with a mouth guard, you are as safe as can be on the mats.

Most manufacturers make their headgear from durable materials like leather or synthetic leather filled with foam padding. They also have adjustable straps to provide a comfortable and secure fit. Most wrestling headgear has a hard outer shell to absorb impact and soft inner padding for cushioning. There are also ventilation holes to keep you cool and comfortable during intense bouts.

Most wrestling headgear also comes with removable ear guards to increase airflow around the wrestler’s head.

Best Wrestling Headgear

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Wrestling Shoes

A good wrestling shoe is one of the most important wrestling gear investments you will make, this is because there are many differences between wrestling shoes and regular gym shoes. There are a few different types of wrestling shoes available, including high-top and low-cut shoes, each offering different levels of ankle support and flexibility.

Wrestling shoes are designed to provide traction, stability, and agility on the mat. This allows wrestlers to move quickly, accurately, and confidently during matches. These athletic shoes are typically made from lightweight and durable materials like synthetic leather or mesh to offer better breathability and comfort.

Some unique features of wrestling shoes include a snug fit for minimal slippage, a grip that comes up to the sides of the shoe, a thin sole for better grip, and reinforced toe caps for added durability.

If you want to purchase new wrestling shoes, make sure to try out a few different brands, this is because the size can vary a bit. Loosely fitted wrestling shoes cause more harm and good in your training and matches.

Best Wrestling Shoes

More Options: Top 10 Wrestling Shoes

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Grappling Shorts

In wrestling, if you decide to wear shorts, you have to understand that gym shorts won’t cut it. Instead, wrestling shorts are recommended as they are designed to provide freedom of movement, comfort, and durability during rough training sessions and matches.

Wrestling shorts are mostly made from high-quality materials like spandex or polyester blends to offer stretchiness, flexibility, moisture-wicking properties, and high resistance to wear and tear. Grappling shorts often have reinforced stitching for added durability and a secure waistband to keep them in place during intense movements. They also have stretch panels for enhanced mobility during training sessions.

By wearing grappling shorts, wrestlers can focus on their techniques without restrictions, allowing for fluid movements and agility on the mat.

Best Grappling Shorts

wrestling essentials
Credit: Danny Phillips

Training Equipment

When it comes to training for wrestling, several key pieces of equipment can help you improve your skills and performance on the mat. Some essential training gear includes wrestling shoes, knee pads, headgear, grappling shorts, and a wrestling singlet.

Wrestling shoes provide traction and support for quick movements, while knee pads protect your knees during intense training sessions. Headgear is crucial for protecting your ears during grappling, and grappling shorts offer flexibility and comfort for fluid movements.

A wrestling singlet is the standard uniform for matches, allowing for freedom of movement while showcasing your team spirit. By having the right training equipment, you can train effectively, stay safe, and perform at your best in wrestling.

Wrestling Singlet (Custom Team Singlets by Rudis)

Most of the time, if your kid is competing in High school wrestling programs they will have singlets pre-made for your kid. If you are in club wrestling chances are you will be paying a team fee to get a custom singlet from your coach’s provider of choice. For whatever reason, if you want to go off and buy your own singlet for your own personal use to train in we will always recommend going with Rudis, a true leader in the gear space within the niche of wrestling.

The custom Team Singlets produced by Rudis are the epitome of excellence in the world of wrestling attire, offering a blend of functionality, efficiency, style, and personalization.

Internationally recognized brand Rudis excels in providing custom team singlets that not only meet the rigorous demands of amateur wrestling but also allow teams to beautifully express their unique identity through customizable designs. The brand takes pride in their singlets which are meticulously crafted from high-quality materials, ensuring a perfect balance of comfort and durability on the mat at all times.

Rudis’ attention to detail shines through in every stitch and seam. The endless customizable options offered by Rudis allow teams to showcase their national colors, logos, and team spirit proudly, making each singlet an excellent representation of unity and pride.

Whether in the heat of competition or the intensity of training, these high-quality singlets stand out as a symbol of excellence and team solidarity in the world of amateur wrestling.

Best Wrestling Headgear - Grapplers Graveyard

Our pick on the best wrestling headgear to wear this upcoming wrestling season

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Conclusion

Having the right wrestling gear is crucial for any wrestler looking to excel in their sport.

From wrestling shoes to knee pads, headgear, grappling shorts, and custom team singlets, each piece of equipment plays a vital role in enhancing your performance, ensuring safety, and promoting team unity and discipline.

By investing in high-quality gear that fits well and is designed specifically for wrestling, athletes can train effectively, compete with precision and confidence, and showcase their skills with pride. The right gear not only provides adequate comfort and protection but also instills a powerful sense of professionalism and dedication to the sport.

So, whether you’re a seasoned wrestler or just starting your wrestling journey, having the proper gear can make a significant difference in your training, performance, and overall experience.

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Combat sports come with a variety of rules and regulations that try to minimize the huge risk of life-threatening injuries fighters can face participating in them. One of them is the “No Contest” rule where a fight can be nullified or declared void based on unforeseen circumstances outside of the fighter’s control.

Read below to learn all about this rule, famous examples, and how bets are affected when a fight is ruled as a “No Contest”.

what is no contest in ufc

What is no contest in UFC?

In the MMA, which includes the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship), a no-contest fight refers to a ruling made by the referee or the governing body of the sport when a fight cannot produce a solid outcome.

This could occur due to many reasons such as accidental fouls, injuries, or other unforeseen interruptions or circumstances that prevent the fight from continuing fairly and competitively.

When a fight is declared a “no contest,” it means that it is essentially nullified, and neither fighter is awarded a win, a loss, or even a draw. The result of the fight is not reflected in the two fighters’ records, and therefore it is treated as if it never took place.

No Contest Rules UFC

In the UFC, a fight can be declared a “no contest” for various reasons. One common instance is if there’s an accidental foul that significantly impacts the outcome of the fight by giving one fighter a significant disadvantage.

An example of this is if a fighter accidentally pokes their opponent in the eye and the injured fighter is unable to continue, in such a case, the UFC fight may be ruled a “no contest.”

Another common scenario is if there’s an issue with the fight itself, like if there’s a malfunction with the cage or the equipment, or if there’s interference from someone not involved in the fight. In cases like these, the fight is stopped and declared a “no contest” by the referee or the governing body like the UFC.

UFC No Contest Example

There are several different examples of when a fight ends with a no-contest decision. Some of them are:

  1. Illegal Strikes to the back of the head
  2. Accidental Eye pokes
  3. Failed Drug test or use of banned substances
  4. Outside Interference
  5. Hitting a downed opponent

What Happens to my Bet if the Fight is scored ‘No Contest’?

Regarding betting, what happens to your bet depends on the specific sportsbook or betting platform you use.

Different platforms have different rules when it comes to “no contest” outcomes. Some platforms may consider a “no contest” as a push, meaning your original bet amount is returned to you without any winnings or losses.

Other organizations may have specific rules in place to determine the outcome of the bet. It is common for them to consider the fight a win or a loss based on the progress of the fight before it is declared a no-contest.

It’s always recommended to check the terms and conditions of the betting platform you used or reach out to their customer support for clarification on how they handle “no contest” outcomes before placing a bet.

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what is no contest in ufc

Most Famous UFC No Contests

  1. Anderson Silva vs Nick Diaz- UFC 183: As hyped as this fight was, it was a disappointment. Silva won the fight but he tested posted for anabolic steroids later on, so the fight was turned into an NC. Nick Diaz was also found to be under the influence of pot.
  2. Eddie Alvarez vs Dustin Poirier- UFC 211: Another highly anticipated fight between two excellent fighters. However, a no-contest decision was given after Eddie Alvarez hit Dustin Poirier with a knee while he was on the ground, leading to a disqualification in the second round.
  3. Gray Maynard vs Rob Emerson- TUF 5 Finale: Maynard slammed Emerson to the ground but he face-planted onto the canvas as well. While Emerson tapped out due to injury, Maynard was also knocked out momentarily. Hence the ref declared the fight an NC.
  4. Jon Jones vs Daniel Cormier II- UFC 214: The rematch between UFC GOATS Jones and Cormier ended as a knockout win for Jones, until he tested positive for juice. It was hence overturned into a no contest.

What is no contest in Boxing?

When it comes to boxing, a “no contest” occurs when a fight is stopped or deemed inconclusive due to certain unforeseen circumstances. It means that the fight does not have a clear winner or loser. This can happen if there’s an accidental foul causing an injury, or there’s some other unusual situation that prevents the fight from continuing fairly in a competitive manner.

If a boxing match is declared a “no contest,” it’s like the fight never happened, so it doesn’t count towards a either boxer’s win or loss record. It’s a way to ensure fairness and safety in combat sports. It makes sure neither boxer get’s an unfair advantage over the other.

No Contest Rules in Boxing

In boxing, the overall rules for a fight being ruled a no contest are very similar to those of MMA. A boxing match is usually declared a “No contest” when there is some sort of accidental injury, illegal strike resulting in an injury, intentional illegal strikes, outside interferences or equipment malfunctions.

Things like hitting the back of the head and headbutts are common reasons for fights being declared void.

Boxing No-Contest Examples

There are several different reasons for why a boxing match could be prematurely stopped. They are:

  1. Illegal Strikes to the back of the head
  2. Accidental Low blow
  3. Accidental Eye pokes
  4. Accidental Headbutt
  5. Failed Drug test or use of banned substances
  6. Outside Interference
  7. Failing a drug test
  8. Hitting a downed opponent

What Happens to my Bet if the boxing fight is scored ‘No Contest’?

When it comes to “No contest” decisions in boxing and other combat sports, what happens with your bet amount depends on the organization. Some organizations will return your amount as it is, while others might use the progress of the fight to decide who would have won.

Most Famous No-Contest Boxing Fights

There have been many memorable fights that ended with a No-contest decision. Below are three of some of the most well-known fights that were ruled a “no contest”.

  1. Mike Tyson vs. Evander Holyfield II (1997): This is infamously known as the “Bite Fight.” During the match, Iron Mike bit off a piece of Holyfield’s ear in anger, resulting in a disqualification and a “no contest” ruling. It was one of the most shocking and controversial moments in boxing history.
  2. Andrew Golota vs Riddick Bowe II (1996): In their rematch, Andrew Golota repeatedly landed low blows on Bowe, leading to multiple-point deductions during the fight. Eventually, Golota was disqualified due to excessive fouling, resulting in the fight being ruled a “no contest”. It was a highly anticipated fight that ended in disappointment among fans.
  3. Lennox Lewis vs. Hasim Rahman II (2001): In their rematch, Hasim landed a powerful punch that knocked out Lewis, this was ruled a “no contest”. However, this ruling was later overturned, and Lewis regained his heavyweight titles. This was just one of the fights that showcased the unpredictability and drama of boxing.

These fights are remembered for their uniqueness and the impact they had on the sport of boxing. They serve as reminders to boxers that anything can happen in the ring, leading to unexpected outcomes and “no contest” rulings. However it should be remembered that these rulings were more common in the past than in modern boxing.

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What is the Impact of No-Contest Rulings on a Fighters’ Record?

When a fight is ruled as a “no contest,” it doesn’t have any impact on a fighter’s record. The result is essentially erased, and it’s like the fight never happened in terms of their win-loss record. A “no contest” ruling doesn’t count as a win or a loss for either fighter.

It’s a way to ensure fairness and maintain the integrity of the sport. So, fighters can rest assured that their records won’t be affected by a “no contest” outcome. It’s all about keeping things fair and square in the world of boxing

Fighters can still ask for a post-fight appeal but overturned decisions are highly unlikely, especially for an accidental illegal strike resulting in the decision. In the case of UFC legend Jon Jones, UFC President Dana White has tried his hardest to turn Jones’s only loss (via DQ) into a no-contest to protect his spotless record.

How are No-Contest Rulings Decided?

When it comes to deciding “no contest” rulings in boxing, it’s usually up to the referee or the governing body of the sport. They carefully assess the circumstances surrounding the fight and consider factors like accidental fouls, injuries, or any other unforeseen events that may have affected the bout’s outcome.

The decision to declare a fight as a “no contest” is a technical decision made to ensure fairness and maintain the integrity of the sport. It’s important to have impartial judgment and take into account the rules and regulations of boxing.

So, it’s ultimately the responsibility of the officials overseeing the fight to make the call and determine if a “no contest” ruling is appropriate.

Controversies Surrounding No Contest Calls

Whenever a fight is ruled as a “No contest” fight. Many controversies surface against the incident.

It is common for combat sports fans to say the decision was dramatic or incorrect. The legitimacy and transparency of the governing bodies is often questioned in these sorts of incident, especially for highly anticipated fights.

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When it comes to maintaining longevity in your boxing career, practicing good hygiene should be a priority. When it comes to your gym gear, your shoes oftentimes are the culprit of the foul odors. When you choose to not take the right precautions you end up with fungal infections like athlete’s foot or some other kind of toenail fungus.  In boxing, your shoes take the most beating, but taking care of them is simple and to the point.

Read below to learn all about how to clean your boxing shoes and things to look out for to avoid any damage.

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How to Clean Boxing Shoes

Cleaning your boxing shoes is an easy process and it has many benefits.

When your shoes are cleaned regularly, it helps to maintain their quality and durability. Boxing shoes endure a lot of wear and tear during intense training sessions and fights. Cleaning them helps to remove dirt, sweat, and bacteria that can accumulate over time.

Cleaning your boxing boots is also an easy process, listed below is an efficient way of hand-washing them that can also be used for boxing gloves if need be.

  1. Remove any loose dirt or debris by gently hitting the shoes together
  2. Use a soft brush to scrub away any stubborn dirt or stains
  3. Mix a mild detergent with warm water and use a clean cloth to gently clean the surface of the shoes
  4. Rinse off the excess soap with water
  5. Stuff the shoes with newspaper or paper towels to help them retain their shape
  6. Let them air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight

Removes Excess Dirt & Debris

Cleaning your boxing shoes holds huge importance as it effectively eliminates excess dirt and debris. During training or matches, your shoes can accumulate dirt from the gym floor or the ring.

Regular cleaning not only ensures the cleanliness of your shoes but also helps maintain their optimal performance. By removing any accumulated dirt and debris, you prevent any potential damage to the shoes, ensuring that they continue to provide the necessary grip and protection during your training and matches.

Prepare Cleaning Solution

Preparing a cleaning solution is easy. Start by grabbing a spray bottle or small bucket and fill it halfway with water. Add a bit of mild soap/detergent or shoe cleaner if you have some. Mix it well and there you have it, a good cleaning solution that you can use for various tasks around the house, and cleaning your suede boxing boots and other boxing equipment.

Pro Tip: Spot Test to make sure your cleaning solution does not cause discoloration

Discoloration can be a major problem on suede and leather boxing boots, the reason for this is that not all soaps and detergents are suitable for boxing gloves or shoes.

  1. Choose a small area of your like the inner lining or a less visible part
  2. Apply a small amount of the solution to that area
  3. Gently rub the solution onto the area using a soft cloth
  4. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe with a damp cloth
  5. Check the spot for any discoloration

If you do not see any discoloration, you are good to go, otherwise, try a different solution or consult with the shoe manufacturer.

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Clean off Exterior

Start by gently removing any dirt or debris from the surface using a soft brush or damp cloth. On visible stains and marks, you can use a mild detergent or shoe cleaner to easily spot-clean them. Remember to be gentle, use a soft cloth or brush, and avoid scrubbing too vigorously to prevent any wear and tear.

Next, rinse off any soap residue with clean water and then let your shoes air dry. Taking these steps will help keep your shoes, fresh and ready for your next training session.

Clean the Soles

Cleaning the soles of your boxing boots is important for maintaining good traction in the ring. Start by giving the soles a good brush or wipe with a soft cloth to remove any visible loose dirt or debris.

If you see any stubborn marks, mix some warm water with a mild detergent and use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub those areas across the soles. In the end, rinse off all the soapy residue with clean water and wipe them dry with a clean towel.

Wipe Down Dry

Wiping down is a great method for drying your boxing boots after washing them. Take a clean towel or cloth and gently wipe down the exterior and interior of the shoes to remove any excess moisture or soap residue.

Make sure to pay special attention to the areas where water may have accumulated, such as the tongue or insole. Make sure to dry them thoroughly to prevent any bad odors or mold growth. After wiping them down, place them in a well-ventilated area to air dry completely.

Air Dry Naturally

Air drying your boxing boots after washing them is the best way to ensure they dry properly without causing any damage. Once you’ve finished washing them, give them a gentle squeeze, and wipe them dry to remove any excess water. Then, in a well-ventilated area, place your shoes in a spot where they can get plenty of fresh air.

Avoid placing your boxing gear in direct sunlight or heat sources like hair dryers as they can potentially warp, damage, or shrink the materials.

Optional: Deodorize & Condition

To condition and deodorize your boxing gear, there are a few different things you can do, for starters, you can occasionally use baking soda to keep them fresh. You can also regularly use an antiseptic spray before and after using your boxing equipment.

Taking care of your boxing gear will allow you to increase their longevity in the gym, and also help you stay safe from any skin infections like ringworm.

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For beginner boxers, intimidated by bustling boxing gyms, shadow boxing is the way to go. A few simple shadowboxing workouts a week, paired with a couple of egg weights will help you build a solid foundation of confidence and skills.

In this article, you will learn all the benefits of shadowboxing boxing alongside how to get better at it even in the comfort of your home.

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What is Shadow Boxing

Shadow boxing is an ancient training technique used in various combat sports, including boxing, kickboxing, and martial arts. It involves throwing punches, strikes, and kicks in the air without any equipment or opponent. This allows fighters to warm up and practice their technique, footwork, and movement patterns while visualizing an imaginary opponent during training.

Shadow boxing is believed to have originated from ancient martial arts practices, where if warriors did not have a training partner, they would simulate combat movements to enhance their skills.

How to Shadow Box

Shadowboxing is great way to level up your combat skills in the comfort of your own home. Here’s how you do it: Find a spacious area and warm up with some dynamic stretches and light cardio. Get into your boxing stance, hands up and feet shoulder-width apart.

Imagine an opponent in front of you and throw punches, starting with your dominant hand. Move around as you punch, using proper footwork. Mix things up with different strikes and combos and don’t forget to work on defense too.

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After a couple of minutes of training egg weights, you will feel the burn. Apparently, the company we bought ours from says that you burn 30-60% more calories when you use egg weights while shadowboxing.

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Shadow Boxing and Boxing Training: Why Do It In The First Place?

Shadowboxing is an important aspect of boxing training, which offers a multitude of benefits. For starters, it allows you to refine your technique and form without the added pressure of an opponent hitting you back.

You can focus on perfecting your punches, footwork, and defensive maneuvers without a partner. Shadowboxing also helps improve your coordination, balance, and timing. Additionally, shadowboxing is an excellent cardiovascular workout that burns calories and helps build endurance and stamina.

Improved form and technique

Shadowboxing regularly has a tremendous impact on improving your form and technique. When you shadow box, you have the freedom to focus solely on perfecting your movements, ensuring they are executed with precision and proper technique. Without the pressure of an opponent hitting you back, you can pay close attention to your stance, hand positioning, and body mechanics.

This allows you to make adjustments and corrections as needed, refining your form over time. By visualizing an imaginary opponent, you can also work on your defensive skills, such as slipping, blocking, and evading punches.

Strength and Speed

Regularly incorporating shadowboxing into your weekly training routine can lead to improved explosive strength and speed. When you throw punches, you engage various major muscle groups throughout your body, including your arms, shoulders, core, and legs.

Over time, this repetitive motion helps build muscular strength and cardiovascular endurance. Although it does not increase muscle mass, it still burns calories.

As you continue to practice and gain experience, you’ll notice an increase in your punching power and speed. This is because shadowboxing also enhances your overall athleticism and coordination, as you work on moving swiftly and smoothly while maintaining proper form and technique.

Improved balance

Regularly practicing shadow boxing can have a huge impact on improving your balance. As you throw punches and move around the ring, you constantly have to maintain a stable and centered position. This helps strengthen your core and improves your overall balance and stability.

By focusing on your footwork and weight distribution, you can enhance your ability to maintain control and stay on your feet, even during high-velocity movements. Improved balance not only benefits your boxing skills but also improves other areas of your life, such as daily activities and sports.

Boosts Muscle Memory

Shadowboxing is great for boosting muscle memory. By practicing specific movements and combinations again and again, your muscles become familiar with the patterns and actions involved.

This type of training helps solidify the neural pathways between your brain and muscles. It allows for more efficient and quicker execution of punches, footwork, and defensive maneuvers. As you progress, your body becomes finely attuned to the proper technique, timing, and coordination required in boxing.

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Shadow Boxing Best Practices

There are a few different practices you should perfect to make the most out of your shadow boxing workouts.

For starters, it’s crucial to warm up your body with some light cardio and dynamic stretches before your shadow boxing workout. Next, find a clear space where you have enough room to move around freely at close range without any obstructions.

After this, start by practicing the basic boxing stance, ensuring that your feet are around shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and your non-dominant side forward. As you throw punches with more power, focus on maintaining proper form, keeping your hands up to protect your face, and rotating your hips and shoulders to generate power.

As you gain some experience, incorporate footwork drills, such as shuffling, pivoting, and circling, to improve your agility and movement speed. It’s also good to mix up your combinations, working on both offense and defense, to simulate real fight scenarios when you shadow box.

Only use a mirror if you’re a beginner working on technique

In shadow boxing, using a mirror can be particularly beneficial if you’re a beginner who wants to focus on refining your technique and basic punches. By positioning yourself in front of a mirror, you can visually assess your movements and form in real-time like your lead foot and rear foot positioning.

This visual feedback allows you to identify and fix any errors or areas that require adjustment during your workouts. Observing your punches, footwork, and overall body mechanics can help you ensure proper alignment and execution as you learn and practice basic moves.

Stay Focused

Staying focused is key when shadow boxing. Maintaining a strong mental presence throughout your training session is essential to make progress. When you keep your mind fully engaged, you can maximize the effectiveness of your techniques.

Visualize your imaginary opponents and imagine realistic scenarios as you throw practice punches, move around, and defend. This mental focus will enhance your physical performance and also help you develop better timing, accuracy, and overall boxing skills like your guard position.

Don’t throw full punches

In shadow boxing, it’s important to remember not to throw full or straight punches. Instead, you should focus on maintaining control and precision in your movements. It is all about improving technique and building muscle memory, rather than trying to knock out an imaginary opponent.

By throwing full punches in your shadow boxing sessions, you risk straining your muscles or even injuring yourself and also compromising on punch speed and accuracy. So, keep your punches at a controlled speed and intensity, focusing on proper form and technique when you shadow box.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Shadowboxing Better than a Punching Bag?

Both shadowboxing and bag work have their unique benefits and are important aspects of a good boxing training routine. Shadow boxing allows you to improve your technique, footwork, and overall movement without external resistance.

On the contrary, a punching bag provides resistance and impact, allowing you to improve your explosive power, and endurance, and work on conditioning. Heavy bag training helps you develop strength in your punches and build stamina. Light bag work also offers a tangible target, which can help improve accuracy, speed, and precision.

Overall, training with a heavy bag or light bag has more benefits and should be prioritized. However, shadow boxing also has its benefits, it is recommended to include both for a well rounded routine.

How long should I shadowbox for?

There are a few factors to take into consideration, like your fitness level, goals, and overall training routine. A good starting point for most people is around 10 to 15 minutes of shadowboxing. This allows you to warm up properly, focus on good technique, and get into the rhythm of your exercise.

As you get better and build some endurance, you can gradually increase the duration. Some boxers shadowbox for 20 to 30 minutes, while others prefer shorter, more intense sessions.

It’s important to listen to your body and find what works for you, and also to take breaks when needed and stay hydrated. Make sure to incorporate other training elements like bag work, conditioning exercises, and sparring to have a well-rounded boxing training session.

Can shadowboxing help me in a real fight?

The short answer is that shadow boxing will not help you in a real fight, regardless of how good you are. Most of the time people will play dirty, as there are no rules and safety precautions in a real fight. Your opponent can kick you and hit the back of your head and your crotch area.

Shadow boxing might help you get better reflexes, but being faster is useless against multiple opponents, or even worse, weapons. It’s best that you avoid any confrontations and street fights as they can lead to legal actions and huge injuries.

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In the intricate world of boxing, fighters often face losses or feel as if they need a break fighting against challenging opponents. This is where Tune-up fights come into play, they act as a de-load fight to help boxers get back on their feet.

Read below to learn all about Tune up fights, how they work, and some memorable examples.

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What is a tune-up fight and when are they used?

A tune-up fight is a term commonly used in combat sports, like professional boxing or MMA. It refers to a fight that a fighter takes on to prepare for big fights. Tune-up fights, also known as warm-up fights are usually against opponents who are less skilled or experienced.

Ultimately allowing the fighter to work on their techniques, conditioning, and strategy before stepping into the ring with a tougher opponent, usually against a top contender. These fights are usually an easy win and they’re used to fine-tune their skills and build confidence.

The Purpose Behind Tune-Up Fights

The main purpose behind a tune-up fight is to help fighters sharpen their skills and regain their form after a period of inactivity or a loss, a stay-busy fight if you may.

Tune-ups are strategically planned to provide the fighter with an opportunity to work on specific aspects of their game, such as footwork, defense, or offense, without facing a highly competitive opponent right away.

A Tune-up fight allows a fighter to assess their current abilities, identify weaknesses, and make necessary adjustments before stepping into a big fight. Tune-ups are like a warm-up in the boxing ring before the main event, helping fighters regain their confidence, and momentum and fix any ring rust.

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When Tune-Up Fights Go Wrong

At times, tune-up fights can go wrong, which is quite disappointing and frustrating for the fighter and their fans. Most of the time, these are stay-busy fights that are meant to be relatively easy wins for the fighter, but things do not always go as planned.

There have been memorable instances where the opponent, who was supposed to be an easy challenge, turned out more competitive than expected. This can result in a long, tough, and unexpected fight for the fighter looking for an easy win. A fight like this can potentially lead to a loss or barely winning through a unanimous decision.

A hard tune-up fight in the boxing ring can be a setback in terms of confidence and preparation for future matches. However, fighters need to learn from these experiences, put in the work, and make the necessary adjustments to bounce back stronger. It goes to show that athletes must be ready for anything and everything in a professional boxing ring.

One example of USA boxing is when Mike Tyson fought against Buster Douglas in 1990. Douglas was considered an underdog, but he shocked the world by knocking out the champion and ending his undefeated streak.

Another prime example is when Anthony Joshua, a heavyweight champion, fought Andy Ruiz Jr. in 2019. Ruiz was a late replacement opponent and was not expected to pose a significant challenge. However, Ruiz shocked boxers all around the world by defeating Joshua, claiming the heavyweight champion title.

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Understanding Boxers’ Training Cycles

The first phase of the training cycle is the off-season, where fighters focus on recovery and rest. Then comes the pre-season, where they gradually increase their training intensity and work on building their explosive strength and cardiovascular endurance. After this comes the in-season, which is mainly specific boxing training, such as sparring and refining techniques.

As the fight is right around the corner, boxers enter the peaking phase, where they fine-tune their skills, increase their intensity, and focus on weight-cutting. After the fight comes the post-season, where fighters take time to recover and reflect on their performance.

Risks and Benefits of Tune-Up Fights

Tune-up fights come with a variety of risks and benefits. One of the main advantages is that they provide boxers with an opportunity to fine-tune their skills, build confidence, and regain their form in the ring after a period of inactivity or a loss.

These fights allow them to work on specific aspects of their game without the intense pressure of a high-stakes fight. It’s like an opportunity to practice and experiment with different strategies. Overall, tune-up fights can help generate buzz and excitement for the athlete, keeping their name in the spotlight and maintaining their strong fan base.

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However, there are also some risks involved. One major risk is when fighters underestimate their opponent. At times, fighters may not take their tune-up fights as seriously as they would a bigger fight, assuming an easy victory. An easygoing mindset like this can lead to complacency and a lack of preparation, resulting in unexpected losses or tougher fights than anticipated.

Another major risk is the potential for injury. Even though tune-up fights are meant to be less challenging, there’s still a chance of getting hurt. Lastly, there’s the risk of damaging the fighter’s reputation and self-esteem. If they perform poorly or lose in a tune-up fight against a lower-ranked fighter, it can negatively impact their image and future opportunities.

Overall, tune-up fights can be beneficial for fighters to fine-tune their skills, regain confidence, and build momentum, but they must approach them with the right mindset and preparation to avoid potential risks and setbacks like injuries and losses.

Benefits of having a Tune-Up Fight:

  • Opportunity to fine-tune skills against an easier opponent
  • Regaining confidence in the ring after a previous loss
  • Gaining popularity and staying in the highlights of boxing news
  • Easy wins to improve a winning streak

Risks of having a Tune-Up Fight:

  • Risk of getting severely hurt
  • Unexpectedly hard fights against underdog opponents
  • Damaged reputation after losing to a lower-ranked fighter
  • Self-esteem might get hurt losing a stay-busy fight
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Examples of Memorable Tune-Up Fights

There are many examples of modern and old yet legendary examples of Tune-up fights.

A prime example is when Canelo Alvarez met Rocky Fielding in 2018. The Mexican superstar moved up a weight class to challenge Fielding for the super middleweight title. It was expected to be a one-sided fight, but Fielding put up a brave and competitive fight before Canelo ultimately knocked him out in the third round, capturing yet another world title.

In 2020, Gervonta Davis faced Leo Santa Cruz in a memorable tune-up fight. “Tank”, who was a rising star in the sport, was expected to showcase his skills against a dangerous boxer, Santa Cruz. The fight delivered an exciting back-and-forth war, with Davis ultimately landing a powerful uppercut in the sixth round, knocking Santa Cruz out cold and claiming the super featherweight title.

Another iconic match-up was when Muhammad Ali faced Jimmy Young in 1976. Ali was coming off a loss to Joe Frazier and was looking to regain his form and fix any ring rust. However, Young, who was considered a tune-up opponent, put up a tremendous fight, showcasing his sharp defensive skills. The fight ended in a controversial draw, leaving everyone surprised and worried for Ali’s future.

Another well-known tune-up fight was when Manny Pacquiao fought Jeff Horn in 2017. Pacquiao, who was a legendary fighter and multi-division champion, was expected to dominate Horn, who was relatively unknown at the time. However, Horn proved to be an underdog put up a valiant effort, and won a controversial decision, shocking the boxing world.

Criticisms and Controversies Surrounding Tune-Up Fights

Tune-up fights in boxing have had their fair share of criticisms and controversies. One major criticism is that these fights are often boring and can sometimes lack competitiveness and excitement. The reason for this is that they are often arranged to provide an easy victory for the favored fighter.

Some fans argue that these matchups are a way for established fighters to pad their records and avoid taking on more challenging opponents. This can be disappointing for fans who are hoping for thrilling and competitive bouts.

Additionally, controversies arise when the underdog unexpectedly performs well or even defeats the favored fighter in the tune-up fight, causing questions about the future of the favored fighter and raising concerns about potential mismatches.

Overall, while tune-up fights serve an important purpose in preparing fighters for bigger contenders and fights, they are not immune to criticisms and controversies within the combat sports community.

Evolution of Tune-Up Fights in Modern Boxing

When it comes to modern boxing, Tune-up fights are still common and effective for boxers in many ways. Rising stars like Gervonta Davis and Ryan Garcia have had multiple tune-up fights leading up to bouts against bigger names.

All in all, tune-up fights have maintained their popularity over the decades, and are still used by fighters to refine their skills and build momentum.

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In the world of combat sports like boxing, athletes often find loopholes to gain an advantage over their opponents.

One example is regaining water weight after the official weigh-in. This is where rehydration clauses come into to play, to promote fairness and safety in professional boxing.

Continue reading to learn all about rehydration clauses and why they are needed when athletes are cutting weight.

What is a rehydration clause in Boxing?

In boxing and other combat sports, a rehydration clause is a rule that’s included in the boxing contract between the athletes and their promoters. It is a condition that sets a limit on how much weight a fighter can gain after they have officially weighed in before their fight.

This clause aims to prevent fighters from using extreme weight gain strategies to gain an advantage on fight night. A rehydration clause helps to ensure a fair and level playing field for both the boxers.

If a fighter fails to remain under or exceeds the specified weight limit in the second weigh-in, they may face penalties such as fines or even have their fight canceled.

what is a rehydration clause

What happens when a fighter misses weight?

In boxing, when a fighter misses weight, it means that they were unable to meet the specified weight limit for their respective weight class (for example: Bantamweight) during the official weigh-in. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as miscalculations, excessive dehydration, or difficulty in cutting weight.

When a fighter misses weight, there are usually consequences, some minor, some serious. They can face penalties, such as fines or a percentage of their purse being deducted. Additionally, the fight itself can be canceled.

They also might be required to compete at a catchweight, where both fighters agree to fight at a weight they both agree on. Regardless, the fighter who made weight still has the option to decline the catchweight and the fight may be canceled entirely.

Failing to make weight for a big fight can be a significant setback for any fighter, as it can create an unfair disadvantage for the opponent in terms of size and strength. It’s always important for fighters to make weight by avoiding extreme weight cuts to ensure a fair fight.

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What is a rehydration clause?

In combat sports, a rehydration clause is basically a contractual condition that limits the amount of weight a fighter can regain after the official pre-fight weigh-in. Rehydration clauses are commonly used in various combat sports, including boxing, mixed martial arts (MMA), and kickboxing.

These clauses prevent fighters from engaging in extreme weight-cutting practices, where they dehydrate themselves to make weight and then rapidly rehydrate before the fight ultimately, regaining all the weight.

If an athlete exceeds the specified weight limit, they may face a variety of penalties, such as fines or disqualification. A rehydration clause helps maintain a competitive balance between athletes and ensures that fighters compete within a reasonable weight range in their respective weight classes.

what is a rehydration clause

The Purpose of Rehydration Clauses

The purpose of rehydration clauses in combat sports is to address the issue of extreme weight-cutting practices. Fighters often go through rigorous weight-cutting methods to make weight for their fights, which can involve severe dehydration and excessive cardio.

However, after the weigh-in, the fighters rehydrate and regain the weight they lost, potentially giving them a significant size and strength advantage over their opponents on the fight night. These clauses help to mitigate this advantage by imposing limits on the amount of weight a fighter can regain within a specific period of time.

All in all, these clauses aim to promote fair competition, prevent extreme weight manipulation, and ensure the safety and integrity of the sport and its athletes. This helps maintain a level playing field and reduces the risk of fighters suffering from severe dehydration-related health issues.

Weight Classes

Flyweight: Up to 52.2 kg (115 lbs)

Bantamweight: 52.3 kg – 61.2 kg (115 lbs – 135 lbs)

Featherweight: 61.3 kg – 65.8 kg (135 lbs – 145 lbs)

Lightweight: 65.9 kg – 70.3 kg (145 lbs – 155 lbs)

Welterweight: 70.4 kg – 77.1 kg (155 lbs – 170 lbs)

Middleweight: 77.2 kg – 83.9 kg (170 lbs – 185 lbs)

Light Heavyweight: 84 kg – 93 kg (185 lbs – 205 lbs)

Heavyweight: 93.1 kg – 120.2 kg (205 lbs – 265 lbs)

Purpose of Weight Classes

In combat sports, weight classes exist to ensure fair competition and promote safety among fighters. By categorizing fighters into different weight divisions, it helps to level the playing field and prevent physical mismatches.

Fighters of similar weights are more likely to have similar physical attributes and capabilities. This leads to more competitive and exciting matches as fights come down to skill and experience.

Weight classes also help to reduce the risk of severe injuries that could occur when there is a significant difference in size and strength between opponents.

Furthermore, weight classes provide structure to the sport, making it easier for fans and promoters to follow and promote their favorite fighters. This concludes that weight classes play a crucial role in maintaining fairness, safety, and the overall integrity of combat sports.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that rehydration clauses are an important part of combat sports. They prevent fighters from getting into a whole other weight class when they enter the ring.

A rehydration clause in the boxing world promotes fairness and ensures that neither of the boxers has an unfair advantage over the other on fight night.

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When it comes to ensuring longevity in your fitness journey, hygiene must be prioritized. Practicing good hygiene by showering every day and using clean gear will allow you to avoid getting sick and make the most out of your training sessions.

Read below to learn all about how often and how to wash a sauna suit.

how often to wash sauna suit

How often do you wash sauna suits?

It is recommended to wash sauna suits regularly to keep them clean and hygienic for the next use. The frequency of washing will depend on how often you use the sauna suit and how vigorously you train in it.

As a general guideline for most people, it is recommended that you wash your sauna suit after each use to remove sweat, bacteria, and odors. This will help maintain its freshness and extend its lifespan.

Remember, a dirty sauna suit is a dangerous breeding ground for a variety of bacteria, using it can cause skin infections like ringworm.

You should always follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure proper cleaning and maintenance to make sure you do not damage the sweat suit.

How to wash a sauna suit

  1. Check the care instructions: Read the care label beforehand to ensure you follow any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer.
  2. Pre-treat stains: If you see any visible stains, pre-treat them by gently applying a mild stain remover or detergent directly over the affected areas.
  3. Hand wash or machine wash: For hand washing, fill a basin or bucket with lukewarm water and mix in a mild detergent. Gently submerge the suit in the soapy water, paying attention to any stained areas.For machine washing, put the sauna suit in a mesh laundry bag to protect it and use a gentle cycle and cold water with a mild detergent.
  4. Rinse thoroughly: After washing, make sure to rinse the sauna suit thoroughly to remove any excess soap residue.
  5. Air dry: Hang the suit in a well-ventilated area or lay it flat to air dry. Avoid using direct heat like a blowdryer or sunlight, as it can degrade the fabric.

Different Sauna Suit Materials

Sauna suits are commonly crafted from different synthetic materials each, each with its distinct properties.

The most common material is polyvinyl chloride, renowned for its waterproof nature and ability to retain heat effectively.

Neoprene is also popular, it is a synthetic rubber known for its exceptional insulation and flexibility. Neoprene sauna suits are often favored for their long-lasting durability and comfort.

Although not as common, some sauna suits are also composed of a blend of polyester and spandex, allowing for a lightweight and stretchable alternative.

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Pre-Washing Preparations

When it comes to pre-washing preparations for sauna suits, there isn’t much for you to worry about. One simple precaution you can take is to look at the care label by the manufacturer. This will tell you all the wash instructions you need to know to ensure proper care of your suit when washing.

It can tell you if you can use a washing machine, or if you need to hand wash the suit, it can also tell you the type and strength of detergent you can use per wash cycle, and the recommended water temperature for an efficient cleaning process.

Also, if you see any visible stains, apply some detergent or soap to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes before you wash it.

Things to consider before handwashing your sauna suit

When hand washing your sauna suit, there are a few things you should consider, they are:

  1. Carefully read the manufacturer’s washing instructions
  2. Don’t use fabric softeners
  3. Use a consistent temperature of water like cold or warm water
  4. Use a gentle laundry detergent or soap
  5. Gently agitate the suit inside and out

Hand Washing Instructions

  1. Start by addressing any visible stains on the garment, treat them with a mild detergent, and let them sit for a few minutes before washing
  2. Submerge the suit inside luke warm water mixed with a gentle detergent
  3. Gently knead and agitate the whole suit and visible stains
  4. Rinse completely making sure to remove any excess soap or detergent
  5. Air drying is recommended, spread the suit out in an open area
Pros and cons of handwashing a sauna suit
Pros
  1. Increases the lifespan of your suit
Cons
  1. Can take longer depending on how dirty your suit is
  2. Hand washing can be tedious if you need to do it everyday

Machine Washing Instructions

  1. If there are any visible stains, pre-treat them with a gentle detergent and let them soak for a few minutes
  2. Place the sauna suit in a mesh laundry bag and put it in the washing machine
  3. Set a gentle cycle with lukewarm water and add a detergent to the water
  4. Rinse off any excess residue and leave it to air dry, do not use direct sunlight or a blow dryer
  5. Do not use tumble drying and wash other garments separately
Pros and cons of  machine washing a sauna suit
Pros
  1. Machine washing is much easier
  2. It saves you time
Cons
  1. The quality of your suit might be compromised as washing machines can damage the garment

boxing sauna suits, how often to wash sauna suit

Preventing Odors From Building Up in Your Sauna Suit

There are several tips to prevent odors from building up in your sauna suit. The most important is that you shower before wearing it. This will prevent you from bringing any dirt or bacteria into the suit.

Another good tip is to regularly wipe clean your suit and wash it when needed.

Drying Instructions

When it comes to drying any kind of sports gear, you should not speed up the drying process by using direct sunlight or a blow dryer, especially line drying, for delicate gear like sauna suits.

Instead, you should let them air dry completely in the open. You can hang dry inside in a well-ventilated place or spread your sauna suit inside in on a table.

Direct heat can cause significant damage to the quality of natural fabrics in your gear. It can weaken the fabric and even shrink it, reducing its efficiency and effectiveness for the next use.

Why You Need to Clean a Sauna Suit Regularly

A dirty sauna suit is a dangerous breeding ground for fungi and bacteria, when you leave the suit full of dirt, sweat, body oils and grime, bacteria growth will be promoted.

The next time you wear the dirty suit, you will be prone to skin infections and diseases like ringworm. So make sure to wash your sauna suit regularly on a low heat setting or cool water if you are hand washing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to wash the sauna suit after every use?

This depends on how much you sweat or how vigorously you exercise. If you did not sweat too much, it is likely you don’t need to wash it, especially if you do not see any visible stains.

Should a Sauna Suit Be Disinfected After Each Use?

It is highly recommended that you wipe your sauna suit clean after every use to keep it fresh for the next use. You can use a cloth with some disinfectant liquid and wipe the inside of the sauna suit properly.

Can I wash my sauna suit with other clothes?

Sauna suits are much more delicate than normal clothes, you should wash them separately on a delicate cycle to reduce the risk of damage or wear and tear.

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Sauna suits are a great way of using heat stress cutting weight, especially for professional athletes looking to slice a few extra pounds off the scale to make weight.

Read below to learn all about sauna suits and how they help with rapid weight loss.

How much weight can you lose wearing a sauna suit?

Wearing a sauna suit during training contributes to temporary weight loss by making you sweat more. However, you should note that the weight loss is mainly caused by water cutting and not fat loss.

The amount of weight you can lose while wearing a sauna suit depends on several factors such as the duration and intensity of your workout, your body composition, and individual differences like age, gender, body weight, and body fat percentage.

It’s crucial to understand that the weight lost through sweating can quickly be regained once you rehydrate. For sustainable and long-term weight loss, it’s best to focus on a high-protein balanced diet, regular strength training and cardio, and a healthy lifestyle.

Do Sauna Suits Really Help You Lose Weight?

Technically speaking, weight loss can occur when training with a sweat suit or a sauna suit, the catch is that most of the weight lost will be regained once you rehydrate yourself. This is because most of the weight loss that occurs when you train with a sauna suit is water weight, lost through excessive sweating.

Professional athletes usually wear sauna suits for hours during training to lose a significant amount of weight before their weigh-in for competitions. Sauna suits allow athletes to make weight for their specific weight class.

If your goal is long-term weight loss, and more importantly fat loss, training in a sauna suit will only take you so far. Instead, focus on training hard every week using weights, eating a high-protein diet in a caloric deficit, and getting adequate rest.

How Long Should You Wear A Sauna Suit?

There is no minimum or maximum amount of time recommended for wearing a sauna suit. The best amount of time depends on goals, experience, and endurance. For beginners, it is recommended to start with 15 to 30 minutes of exercise and go from there.

Training in a sauna suit is both physically and mentally very draining for beginners and intermediate athletes, overtraining and excessive cardio can cause a variety of problems.

It is a common occurrence for beginners to face severe dehydration,, dizziness, and excessive fatigue when wearing a sauna suit, especially during intense exercise. To avoid problems like these, gradual progression is highly recommended.

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Sauna Suit Risks

Training with sauna suits comes with some risks that you should take into consideration.

The increased body temperature, resting metabolic rate, and excessive sweating can all lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous if not properly dealt with. Overheating is another big concern, as sauna suits can trap body heat close to the body, potentially causing heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

It’s important to listen to your body and its needs, you should take breaks when needed, and stay properly hydrated while using a sauna suit, electrolyte drinks are recommended to hydrate you better.

Another important factor that you should consider is if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using a sauna suit.

What an Exercise Science Researcher Says About Sauna Suits

Most exercise researchers found sauna suits to be a great addition to your training (source). To progress, you must continue to progressive overload or increase the intensity.

Using sauna suits in your training will push your body harder in temperate and hot conditions in your fitness routine. High-intensity exercise is great for your cardiovascular health and has many other health benefits.

Researchers also found that training with a sauna suit can help increase plasma volume in your blood and also fix any electrolyte imbalances.

Do Sauna Suits Burn Fat?

Sauna suits do not directly burn fat , however they can increase the rate at which you burn fat. Wearing a sauna suit can contribute to temporary weight loss through increased sweating, but this weight loss is primarily due to water loss and not fat loss and will be regained once you rehydrate yourself.

The heat and sweating caused by wearing a sauna suit can increase the rate at which you burn calories, but it’s important to note that this calorie burn is mainly a result of increased heart rate, improved blood flow, and energy expenditure during exercise.

So, the answer is yes and no. Sauna suits are restrictive heat loss attire that catalyzes body fat oxidation through increased sweat production, however, the weight lost through sweat is just water weight and will be regained.

Sauna Suits vs Infrared Saunas for Athletes and Weight Loss

Sauna suits and infrared saunas are excellent options for both, athletes and weight loss, but there are some key differences to consider.

Sauna suits are wearable water-proof tracksuits that increase body temperature and promote sweating during exercise, allowing you to rapidly lose weight. They can be convenient, portable, and simple to use, allowing you to incorporate them into your workouts.

Infrared saunas, on the other hand, use infrared light to heat the body directly, providing a deeper heat penetration that is more effective compared to traditional sauna suits. They are typically stationary units and can offer a more relaxing and spa-like experience, whereas sweat suits are physically and mentally very draining.

Both sauna suits and infrared saunas can contribute to temporary weight loss through increased sweating, but it’s important to remember that this weight loss is primarily due to water loss and not fat loss.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do sauna suits cut weight?

Cutting weight is an important part of an athlete’s life. Especially for those who compete in sports with weight classes like MMA or powerlifting. In sports like these, you must be a specific weight to be able to compete.

For these athletes, sauna suits are amazing for cutting water weight. Sweat suits work by trapping heat released from your body during vigorous exercise in hot environments, which will increase sweat production and help you rapidly lose weight.

It should be noted that this weight loss is temporary and is regained quicker than it is lost.

Is it OK to wear a sauna suit every day?

Using a sauna suit every day is not recommended even for advanced athletes. Your body needs adequate rest to recover from vigorous exercise during your weekly fitness routine, overtraining can lead to many problems such as dehydration, headaches, and drowsiness.

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Sauna suits are an excellent tool in your fitness equipment arsenal. Wearing a sauna suit helps you cut weight quickly and improve blood circulation.

But how long should you wear one? Read below to learn all about the sauna suits, their benefits, and professional guidance on how to use them.

how long should you wear a sauna suit

How long should you wear a sauna suit?

When it comes to wearing sauna suits, there is no exact time you need to wear them. You can wear them for 5 minutes or 30 minutes depending on the intensity of your workout session.

However, there are a few more efficient ways to wear a sauna suit to burn more calories and fat.

5 to 10 Minutes (Recommended Time)

If you plan on having intense workouts regularly, 5 to 10 minutes is the recommended time to wear a sauna suit.

Sauna suits are designed to promote sweating and increase blood flow and water weight loss. However wearing a sauna suit for too long can cause overheating, dehydration, and even drowsiness.

Make sure to take breaks here and there during workouts, drink water every few minutes, and most importantly gradually increase the intensity.

Working Out in a Sauna Suit

Exercising in a sauna suit is a great way to intensify your workouts and promote sweating. Also known as sweat suits, these create a sauna-like environment, which can help catalyze water weight loss, and detoxification and improve blood flow.

Sauna suits have many benefits, however, their use should be done in moderation and with caution. Some tips to make your sauna suit training more efficient are to stay hydrated and take breaks if you start feeling overheated.

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how long should you wear a sauna suit, body weight, body temperature

The Potential Health Benefits of Sauna Suits

Sauna suits offer several potential health benefits if used properly. One of the most commonly known benefits is increased sweating, which can help you with water weight loss and detoxification.

Sweating can also help in flushing out toxins from the body and improving blood circulation. Moreover, sauna suits help you burn more calories during exercise, which helps you burn fat and lose weight quicker.

How Does a Sauna Suit Work?

Wearing a sauna suit creates a warm and insulated environment around your body during your workouts. The suit material is typically waterproof and non-breathable, which traps heat and increases your body temperature.

This leads to an increase in sweating and your metabolic rate which helps promote water weight loss. A hooded sauna suit is an excellent alternative to a proper sauna, hence the name, although not as effective as a sauna room, it is a great way to lose unwanted weight quickly.

Important Precautions in Using Sauna Suit for Weight Loss

When you wear a sauna suit, there are a few different precautions you should take before engaging in vigorous exercise.

For starters, make sure you take a shower before your training session, a dirty body can be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, especially in a sweat suit. If you do not take care of your hygiene, you will become vulnerable to skin irritation and infections like ringworm.

Secondly, make sure to gradually increase the intensity of your workout, especially if it is your first time wearing a sauna suit. Going too hard too quickly can result in dehydration, muscle soreness, overheating, and drowsiness. Make sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks between exercises.

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Do Sauna Suits Work for Weight Loss, Fat Burning, and Calorie Loss?

Sauna suits can help you lose weight, however, it’s important to understand that this weight loss is mainly due to water loss through increased sweating. Sauna suits can help you shed temporary water weight but this doesn’t directly lead to fat burning or weight loss.

The weight loss experienced when you train wearing a sauna suit is mainly the result of increased sweating and elevated heart rate. Therefore, it’s important to understand that any weight loss using a sauna suit is temporary and can be quickly regained once you rehydrate.

For a better approach to fat oxidation and burning calories, it’s better to focus on a balanced diet, regular strength training, and a healthy lifestyle.

Impact on Muscle Warmth and Flexibility

Using a sauna suit can potentially impact muscle warmth and flexibility during workouts. The increased heat generated by the sauna suit can help warm up the muscles more quickly, promoting better flexibility and range of motion.

This can be especially beneficial for activities that require a lot of joint movement, such as yoga or stretching exercises.

However, it’s important to remember that excessive heat and excessive sweating, can also lead to dehydration and muscle fatigue.

Practical Tips for Using Sauna Suits Safely

If not used properly, sauna suits can cause some damage, below are some tips to help you use sauna suits safely and them as efficiently as possible.

Stay Hydrated

When you are training with a sauna suit on, hydration is key to ensuring longevity and effectiveness. Take water breaks every few minutes during training sessions with a sauna suit.

Start Slow

Whenever you start a new hobby, it is recommended that you start slow, listen to your body, and slowly increase the intensity. The same goes for a sauna suit. Going too hard too early will cause problems and reduce the effectiveness.

Combine Exercise with the use of a Sauna Suit

Sauna suits are meant to be worn during exercise, whether you do cardio or strength training, a sauna suit can be a great addition to help you progress in your fitness journey.

Choose the right size

Sauna suits are not supposed to be tight and snug. Instead, they are loose-fitting so they can trap body heat. Make sure to find the right size for maximum efficiency.

Clean Often

Sauna suits are prone to getting dirty because of the amount of sweat and bacteria the user leaves in them. Make sure to clean your suit with every use. It is also recommended to shower before and after training.

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As a boxer, you are recognized by the gloves you wear. Keeping them in pristine condition regardless of how long you’ve used them is an indication of good hygiene and discipline.

In this article, you will learn how to clean boxing gloves and how to take care of them.

are boxing gloves machine washable

Are Boxing Gloves Machine Washable?

It’s generally not recommended to machine wash them your gloves. Boxing gloves are usually made with materials like leather or faux leather. Machine washing can cause damage to them and affect their durability.

It’s best to clean your gloves by hand, by using a mixture of mild soap and water to gently wipe down the exterior and interior of the gloves to remove any dirt, grime or odors. When you’re done, let them air dry completely by keeping them in the open. This will keep your gloves clean and fresh-smelling without risking any damage to their durability or size.

Taking Care Of Your Gear: How to Properly Clean Boxing Gloves

Keeping your gloves clean is an essential part of maintaining good personal hygiene boxers. Listed below are some ways and tips to help you clean your boxing gloves.

  1. After you are done training, wipe the exterior of your gloves with a clean, dry cloth to remove any excess sweat or grime.
  2. To combat odor, you can sprinkle a small amount of baking soda or cornstarch inside each glove, leave it overnight, and then shake out the excess powder in the morning.
  3. If you want a deeper clean, mix mild soap and warm water. Dampen a clean cloth or sponge with soapy water, and gently wipe down the exterior and interior of the gloves.
  4. Make sure to pay extra attention to the thumb area and the inner lining. These areas tend to accumulate sweat and bacteria more than others. Use a soft toothbrush or cloth in these areas.
  5. When you are done cleaning, rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and wipe off any soap residue.
  6. Allow the gloves to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area and avoid placing them in direct sunlight or drying them using a blow-dryer.

How to Clean Boxing Gloves With Specialist Materials

Cleaning boxing gloves with specialist materials can be a great way to keep them fresh and odor-free.

One of the best methods is to use a specialized glove deodorizer spray. Simply spray a thin layer of the deodorizer inside the glove, and let it sit for a few minutes. Afterward, wipe the excess deodorizer with a clean cloth.

Another great option is to use antibacterial wipes or sprays designed for sports equipment like boxing gloves. These specifically designed products help kill bacteria and keep your gloves clean. For efficient use, make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions.

Remember, using a chemical that is not suitable for your gloves can damage them.

Preventive Care to Keep Your Boxing Gloves Pristine

There are several tips and tricks to help keep your boxing gloves clean and smelling fresh.

First of all, properly wash your hands and dry them completely before putting on your gloves. This will prevent any dirt or sweat from getting into the gloves. It is also a good practice to wear hand wraps or inner gloves, this will prevent sweat from getting into the interior fabrics of your gloves.

You should also wipe down the exterior of the gloves after each training session with a clean cloth or disinfecting wipe to remove any dirt or bacteria. It is also recommended to air out your gloves after each use to allow them to dry completely and prevent any unpleasant odors, do this by putting them in open air.

Make sure you avoid storing your boxing gloves in a damp or humid environment, as this can lead to mold. Lastly, you should periodically clean the inside of your boxing glove by using soapy water or glove deodorizers.

Keep Your Hand Wraps Fresh

Keeping your hand wraps fresh is essential to maintain their effectiveness and hygiene. Below are a few tips to increase their longevity. For starters, make sure to wash them regularly. You have the option to either hand wash them with mild soap or put them in a mesh bag and machine wash them on a gentle cycle in the washing machine.

After the cycle is complete, do not use a dryer, instead air dry them completely to prevent any unpleasant odors or mildew. It’s also recommended to have a few pairs of wraps so you can rotate them throughout the week, allowing each pair to fully dry between uses.

You should also avoid storing your hand wraps in a damp or humid environment, as this can promote the growth of bacteria and fungi. To top it all off, if you notice any signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or stretched-out elastic, it’s time to retire them and get new ones.

Leather vs Synthetic Boxing Gloves

When it comes to choosing between Leather and Synthetic gloves, there are a few different factors to take into consideration.

Leather gloves are often considered more durable and comfortable, they have a classic, luxurious look and premium feel. These are also more breathable and can mold to the shape of your hand over time, providing a comfortable and snug fit. Leather also has natural moisture-wicking properties, which can help keep your hands dry during intense workouts and training sessions.

As for synthetic leather gloves, they are more affordable and easier to maintain. These gloves can sometimes be machine-washed and are also less prone to cracking or color fading. Synthetic leather is also more resistant to moisture, which makes them a good choice for those who sweat a lot during intense training.

Ultimately, the choice between leather and synthetic leather gloves comes down to personal preference and budget.

Things to Avoid When Cleaning Boxing Gloves

To keep your boxing gloves clean and durable, there are a few things you should avoid to avoid damaging your gloves.

  1. Do not throw them in the washing machine: Washing machines can damage your gloves as they employ rough movement. Clean your boxing gloves by hand-washing them
  2. Do not submerge them in water: When hand-washing your gloves, do not submerge them entirely in soapy water, instead use a clean wet cloth to clean the interior fabric.
  3. Do not use harsh chemicals: Using harsh chemicals and soaps can damage the durability of your gloves, it is best to use mild soaps, or specifically designed products for sports equipment.
  4. Do not use direct heat: Putting your wet gloves in direct sunlight or using a blow dryer can cause cracking and reduce durability, it is best to let your boxing gloves air-dry.

How Do You Care For Boxing Hand Wraps?

To care for hand wraps, you do not need to be as cautious as you have to be with boxing gloves. Some tips to take care of your hand wraps are:

  1. It is recommended to hand-wash them, if this is not possible, put them in a mesh bag and use a washing machine on a gentle cycle.
  2. Do not use a dryer or place them in direct sunlight to dry them, always air-dry for better results.
  3. Store them in a dry and cool environment, placing them in a damp environment can promote the growth of harmful germs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Wash Hand Wraps in the Washing Machine?

Washing your hand wraps in the washing machine is not recommended. For all your sports gear, it’s best to hand-wash them to prevent shrinking and damage to durability. However, if you cannot hand-wash them, put them in a mesh bag and use the gentle cycle in the washing machine.

How Often Should You Wash Your Boxing Wraps?

This depends mainly on how much you sweat. If you sweat more than the average person, it is recommended you wash your wraps after every training or sparring session. It is recommended to have multiple wraps you can rotate around the week to promote proper hygiene.

How Do You Know When to Replace Your Boxing Gloves?

Seeing signs of wear and tear on boxing equipment is the biggest indicator that it’s time to retire and replace your boxing gloves. Things like ripped seams, holes, or uneven/ compressed padding are all indicators that your gloves have taken enough abuse and need to be replaced.

How Often Should You Replace Boxing Wraps and Gloves?

Boxing wraps are mostly inexpensive and not very durable, it is recommended to replace them after 8-12 months of use, or when they’re stretch out or tearing apart.

On the other hand, gloves are less prone to damage as they are more durable. In most cases, a good pair of gloves will last you around 1-3 years before they need to be replaced.

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The right size boxing gloves can make all the difference. They should fit you snug to the hand and wrist, not too tight, not too loose. This article will cover all the fundamentals of how gloves fit, their types, and most importantly, how to choose the right size boxing glove for you.

Are Boxing Gloves Supposed to be Tight?

Boxing gloves should have a snug fit for optimal results. This is the best of both worlds where it is not too tight, such that your blood flow is restricted and not too loose such that they do not protect your hands or provide stability.

The should feel snug and secure and you should be able to comfortably make a fist and also move your fingers around inside the glove. Choosing the right size boxing gloves can improve your boxing significantly.

How to wrap your hand wraps Properly

Wrapping your hands is an easy skill. With more practice and experience, you will become faster and better at wrapping. Listed below is a step by step process on how to wrap your hands properly.

1. Finding the thumb loop on your hand wrap and place your thumb through the loop and hold the rest of the wrap in your palm.

2. Begin wrapping the wrap around your wrist a 2-3 times, making sure it’s snug but not too tight that it hurts. This will provide you with extra padding and a good amount of wrist support and stability.

3. After this, move towards your palm. Wrap it diagonally across the back of your hand, going from the base of your thumb to the other side of your wrist.

4. Continue wrapping around each of your fingers, and make sure to cover the knuckles and the back of your hand with each loop.

5. In the end, secure the end of the wrap by wrapping it around your wrist a few more times, and then use the Velcro closure.

6. After closing the wrap, make a fist and flex your hand a few times to ensure you have a snug and comfortable fit.

7. Repeat on your other hand.

How Many Ounces Should My Boxing Gloves Be?

Boxing glove weight is usually measured in ounces. The right glove weight for you depends on a few factors like experience and use for the gloves.

If you’re a beginner or doing light training, gloves in the range of 12 to 14 ounces are a good choice. This glove size provides a good balance of protection, absorption and speed.

If you’re more experienced or doing heavy bag work or sparring, you may want to consider heavier gloves, in the range of 16 to 18 ounces. A heavier boxing glove for this use is perfect as it is more padded and offers more protection for both you and your training partner than a lighter boxing glove.

Ultimately, the best boxing gloves weight for you depends on your personal preference and the type of training you plan on doing. It is recommended that you try on different glove weights and see which pair feels the most comfortable.

Different Types of Gloves

When it comes to boxing, different size boxing gloves, serve different purposes. The most common types are bag work gloves, sparring gloves and competition gloves.

Bag Work Gloves

Heavy bag work is very demanding on your hands and wrists. Bag training gloves allow you to strengthen punches in terms of power. To protect your wrists and hands from injury, you should always use a large and heavier glove on a heavy punching bag.

For optimal results, use a 16-18 oz glove size.

Sparring Gloves

Sparring is a big part of boxing training. It is where you develop precision, technique, and also endurance. Therefore, you and your training partner need to invest in sparring gloves.

Sparring gloves are typically heavier than your average pair of gloves. They have more padding so you can protect your partner while still punching hard, however, they are not so heavy that you compromise on speed.

Sparring gloves typically weigh around 12-14 ounces.

Competition Gloves

In competition, the goal is to hit and not get hit. Suppose your wear a lighter boxing glove, with this you will not be able to do any significant damage on your opponent. On the other hand, if you wear a heavier glove, although you will hit harder and will do more damage, you will be slowed down immensely, allowing your opponent to punch you hard.

This is why, competition gloves are the perfect size for power and speed. Most professional boxing matches feature 8-12 ounce gloves depending on the weight class. The heavyweights use 10oz glove sizes and the Welterweights and everyone below them use an 8oz glove size.

Boxing Gloves with Laces or Velcro?

Boxing gloves with laces are mainly used in competition where even the slightest advantage can make a big difference. Laces allow for a customized fit as you can adjust the laces to your liking. However, these gloves are hard to put on and take off, especially if you are alone.

On the other hand, velcro gloves are also quite comfortable if they fit correctly, they are also very convenient to put on and take off. These gloves are mostly common amongst beginners looking for ease wherever they can.

Best boxing gloves for beginners

When you are a beginner, you do not need to invest heavily in custom made boxing equipment. You can easily find a good pair of boxing gloves that will last you a few years, without breaking the bank. Two of the best boxing gloves brands are Everlast and Venom.

Read below to learn about what makes them unique and popular.

Everlast Boxing Gloves

Everlast boxing gloves are hugely popular amongst beginners for a variety of reasons, these gloves are durable, they protect your hands with high quality padding and offer excellent wrist stability and support.

These gloves come in a large variety of sizes, ranging from 8 to 20 ounces in many different colors to suit your style. They offer a comfortable fit which makes them perfect for beginners.

Everlast Elite Pro Style Training Gloves

Everlast gloves are a great budget-friendly option. Everlast training gloves are great for both sparring and bag work.

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Venom Boxing Gloves

Venom is one of the best boxing gloves brands out there, they are famous for their high-quality and durable boxing gloves. These gloves come in a variety of different sizes ranging from 8 ounces up to 16 ounces, catering to every weight class and also training method.

Venom gloves provide excellent wrist support and stability alongside an excellent amount of padding that keeps your hands and wrists safe during training and competitions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you break in tight boxing gloves?

There are a few ways you can break in tight boxing gloves.

The most straightforward way is to just wear them during your training session and eventually, they will loosen up and mold to the shape of your hands.

Secondly, you can wear them and try hitting a heavy bag or a hard surface to loosen up the tight padding.

Lastly, you can use a glove conditioner or leather balm. Apply a small amount of the product onto the gloves and kneed into the places where it feels stiff. After you are done massaging, leave the gloves to air-dry in a cool and open space.

Remember, breaking in gloves takes time, you will get the best results by being patient.

How do you know if boxing gloves fit right?

You can tell if your gloves fit right by taking a few factors into consideration.

For starters, the gloves should feel snug and secure on your hand, without being overly tight or restricting blood flow. You should be able to comfortably make a fist and move your fingers freely inside the glove. They should provide an adequate amount of support to your hand and wrist, ensuring stability and protection during training and matches.

Also, the gloves should not have excessive space or gaps inside, as this can affect the padding negatively.

Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all boxing glove, everyone’s hands are different and you can only find the right size boxing gloves by trying on multiple types and sizes.

How do I know my boxing gloves’ size?

To determine your boxing glove size, you need to know your hand circumference. Use a measuring tape, by wrapping it around your hand just below the knuckles, not the thumb. Take note of the measurements you get in inches or centimeters. Use this measurement to find your size boxing gloves by using a size chart provided by the glove manufacturer.

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Best Boxing Gloves

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When you begin to train for a combat sport, the first piece of equipment you will buy are gloves. However, boxing gloves and Muay Thai gloves cannot be used for one another.

This is due to the differences between them in several areas including:

  • Padding
  • Wrist Support
  • Weight

Read below to learn the difference between boxing gloves and Muay Thai gloves and how to choose the right glove for you.

Can Boxing Gloves Be Used For Muay Thai?

Technically, yes, you can use regular boxing gloves for Muay Thai. However, because both the sports have an immense amount of differences, you will face difficulty practicing Muay Thai techniques.

Unlike boxing, Muay Thai involves a variety of techniques aside from striking, your fingers, palms, and wrists hold huge importance in the execution of these techniques.

An efficient execution would be severely compromised if you wore boxing gloves, therefore it is not recommended at all.

Features of Boxing Gloves

Boxing gloves have many features that make them essential. For starters, they are designed with ample padding to protect your hands and wrists from the risk of injury. In these gloves, the padding is usually made of foam or gel, for maximum absorption against punches.

They also have a secure closure system, such as Velcro straps or laces, to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. This will help you keep your wrists stable and reduce the risk of sprains or strains. They also have a thumb attachment to prevent accidental eye pokes and injuries.

The outer shell is typically made of durable synthetic or genuine leather. Boxing gloves come in a variety of sizes ranging from 8-16 ounces.

These weights and sizes have a purpose, bigger sizes are for building strength in your punches and the smaller sizes are for improving speed and accuracy. The size you choose depends on your training goals and the rules of the boxing organization you compete in.

All in all, modern boxing gloves aim to improve performance and maximize safety and absorption.

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Features of Muay Thai Gloves

Muay Thai gloves have a few unique features that make them perfect for their sport. For starters, Thai gloves are usually more compact with a tighter fit than traditional boxing gloves. This allows you to have better control and precision over your strikes especially when clinching and using elbow strikes.

These gloves also have less padding on the back for a more comfortable and natural hand position. However, the padding on the front is more dense to protect the knuckles properly when striking hard. They also have a Velcro hook and loop closure system which is easy to put on and take off quickly.

In Muay Thai, the gloves range from 4 to 18 ounces, however, in competition, 12 and 14oz gloves are most commonly used.

Padding Distribution

In combat sports and Martial arts, the overall safety of both the athletes is heavily emphasized. Rules like not striking the back of the head and many instances of early stoppages are all aimed at one thing, to make sure the fighters do not get permanent injuries like brain damage.

The same rules apply to boxing and thai gloves, as well. Both boxing gloves and Muay Thai gloves have a specific amount of padding around the hands and wrists. This is to ensure the safety of your fingers, knuckles, and wrists and reduce the risk of injury.

Boxing

The padding distribution is important for keeping your hands and wrists safe and protected during training or in the ring.

It is usually thicker and more concentrated around the knuckles, which helps to absorb the impact of punches and reduce the risk of injuries. It is also spread out across the back of the hand and wrist to provide additional support. Essentially, the goal is to strike a balance between cushioning and mobility without compromising comfort.

The padding aims to provide adequate protection without compromising your ability to move and throw punches with precision. It is recommended that you physically buy your first pair of gloves yourself, the reason being that different brands and models fit differently. Trying them on will allow you to buy the pair that feels the best.

Muay Thai

When it comes to Muay Thai gloves, they are mainly padding concentrated on the knuckles to safeguard your hands and wrists against powerful strikes. This padding is strategically placed based on the demanding nature of the Muay Thai sport.

Additionally, the back of the hand is also padded well, to protect the hand’s delicate bones and joints. Overall, the padding in Muay Thai gloves is evenly distributed across the glove to provide adequate protection, without compromising on mobility and range of motion.

This design allows fighters to strike with confidence, power, and unmatched precision. All while reducing the risk of an injury.

Wrist Support

Wrist support is essential in gloves for combat sports like Muay Thai and Boxing. This is because the wrists are vulnerable to injuries, especially when throwing powerful punches.

Gloves with a good amount of wrist support help stabilize and protect the wrists. This reduces the risk of sprains, strains, or even fractures by keeping your wrists stacked. Having solid wrist support in the gloves provides stability and helps maintain proper alignment, allowing fighters to punch with confidence, precision, and power.

Therefore, having good wrist support holds great significance in both performance and injury prevention.

Boxing

Boxers require better wrist support as striking is the main form of offense in boxing. This is why boxing gloves come with longer cuffs and also stronger closing mechanisms like laces and velcro to keep your wrists stacked and stiff when punching.

Muay Thai

Muay Thai fighters require more wrist mobility as compared to boxers. This is why you will find that a Muay Thai glove has shorter cuffs than a boxing glove. What this does is that you do not get a stiff wrist, which allows you to grapple and clinch better.

This makes Thai-style gloves perfect for Muay Thai Sparring and Thai Boxing.

Boxing Gloves vs. Muay Thai Gloves: The Final Verdict

The final verdict essentially depends more on the competitive sport you choose rather than personal preference. Boxing gloves are perfect for Boxing and Muay Thai gloves are perfect for Muay Thai, however, they cannot be efficiently used for each other’s sport.

Make sure to choose the right type of glove for your sport and you will make immense progress while training and also stay safe from injuries.

Sparring Gloves

Sparring gloves are mainly designed for training sessions where you spar with a partner. These gloves prioritize the safety of both you and your training partner.

These gloves typically have more padding compared to other gloves to minimize the risk of injury when sparring. Most of the time the weight for sparring gloves is 16 ounces. This extra padding helps absorb the impact of punches and reduces the likelihood of causing harm, so you can safely practice your technique.

The larger size alongside the increased padding provides more coverage and protection for your hands and wrists. Choosing the right size glove holds huge importance to ensure a safe, efficient and most importantly an enjoyable training experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any difference between Muay Thai gloves and boxing gloves?

The main difference between boxing gloves and Muay Thai gloves lies in the size and weight of the gloves, the design and length of the cuffs. In most cases, a boxing glove will provide more protection because it is heavier and has longer cuffs.

On the other hand, Muay Thai gloves tend to be lighter with shorter cuffs to provide a more natural fist. This allows better movement for clinching and grappling techniques.

Make sure to choose the right pair of gloves for your sport and experience level, as the right gloves can greatly enhance your training experience.

Are there specific gloves for bag work, sparring, and competitions?

Definitely, different sizes of gloves serve different purposes in striking combat sports and martial arts.

For bag work, mainly heavy bag training, it is recommended you use heavier gloves. These gloves provide maximum absorption and protection for hands and wrists.

As for sparring, it’s important to prioritize the safety of both you and your sparring partner. Sparring gloves are usually heavier and have extra padding to minimize the risk of injuries. They provide more protection for both you and your partner during training.

When it comes to competitions, there are specific gloves approved by the governing bodies of the sport. These gloves are often lighter and have less padding compared to training gloves. They allow for faster hand speed and more precise strikes during the bout.

However, when it comes to competition gloves, they are lighter and have less padding. The size of the glove is usually approved by combat sports organizations. These lighter gloves allow for faster and more precise movement during the fight.

To enhance your boxing training, and fighting experience, make sure to get the right size training gloves and competition gloves.

What is best? Synthetic or Leather Gloves?

Both synthetic leather and leather gloves have their benefits and drawbacks.

If you are looking for a pair of premium gloves that will survive years of rough training, leather gloves are for you. Leather gloves often have a better fit, and are more comfortable and breathable, however, they can be significantly more expensive too.

On the other hand, synthetic gloves are also a great choice, especially if you are a beginner and do not want to break the bank on a pair of gloves. Synthetic gloves are also quite comfortable and provide your hands and wrists with decent protection, they are also easier to clean compared to leather gloves.

Are Muay Thai Gloves different from Boxing Gloves?

Boxing gloves and Muay Thai gloves feature key differences in their design based on their purpose.

Boxing gloves are usually more padding concentrated with padding all around the hand to provide maximum protection during punches. These gloves also have longer padded cuffs for extra wrist support and stability.

On the other hand, Muay Thai gloves feature a more open palm design with less padding on the front of the glove, this allows for better execution of clinching and grappling techniques. They also have shorter cuffs to provide the wrists with more freedom and a larger range of wrist motion throughout.

Make sure to do your research before buying your first gloves. This will help you ensure you get the right gloves for you and your craft.

How to choose the right-weight glove?

Choosing the right weight for a pair of gloves depends on what you plan on using them for. Heavier gloves like 16oz gloves provide more padding distribution and protection, these are good as training gloves for heavy bag training where your sole focus is to develop power.

On the other hand, lighter gloves like 8oz and 10oz provide less protection, however, because of the lighter weight, you can move and punch faster. This makes these gloves better for when you are training to refine your technique and increase your speed.

In most cases, during professional boxing matches or Muay Thai, the gloves used are around 8-12 ounces. To buy the right gloves, it is recommended to physically buy them instead of ordering them online. This will allow you to wear and feel all the differences between the sizes and buy the pair that feels the best.

Best Boxing Gloves

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Nowadays, there is a plethora of combat sports and martial arts to learn from. Two popular disciplines are Wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu. This article will cover everything you need to know to decide which of these is for you.

Read below to learn all about which is:

what is harder wrestling or jiu jitsu

What is harder Wrestling or Jiu Jitsu?

Wrestling and Jiu Jitsu are both incredible martial arts that require a variety of different skills and techniques. Wrestling focuses mainly on takedowns, control, and pinning your opponent, on the other hand, Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes submissions and grappling techniques.

The difficulty of each sport can vary from person to person based on individual preferences, strengths, and weaknesses. It is common for some to find the physicality and intensity of wrestling more challenging, while others agree that the technical aspects and strategy of Jiu-Jitsu are harder to master.

At the end of the day, it’s a matter of personal preference, so choose what you enjoy more.

Differences between the sports

Wrestling and Jiu Jitsu are both fantastic martial arts, however, there are some key differences.

Wrestling primarily focuses on takedowns, control, and pinning. It involves a lot of physical and explosive strength, reflexes and agility.

On the other hand, Jiu-Jitsu is a Martial art that is more centered around submissions and grappling. It emphasizes using leverage through your bodyweight along with joint locks and chokes to gain an advantage over your opponent. It requires a deep understanding of technique, timing, and strategy.

Wrestling is often associated with competitions and tournaments, while Jiu-Jitsu is known for its practical application in self-defense. Both of these Martial arts offer unique challenges and rewards, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference goals.

Wrestling Requires More Athleticism

Both Wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu are very physically demanding and mentally draining sports. You need years of hard work and training under your belt to be good at either one of these Martial arts. However there are a few key differences when it comes to the athlete instincts and athleticism required.

Wrestling requires not just skill but also explosive and physical strength to overpower your opponent and efficiently perform takedown techniques. Wrestlers tend to also have excellent reflexes to counter their opponent’s moves. Endurance is also crucial, as a Wrestling match can be long, intense and physically demanding.

As for Jiu-Jitsu, it is a more effective fighting style. It is more technique than brute force, and requires a deeper understanding of body mechanics to effectively use leverage and control your opponents.

Both of these combat sports require athleticism, however they emphasize different aspects of it.

Wrestling Mindset

The wrestling mindset is truly unmatched, it’s all about mental toughness, discipline, and determination. Wrestlers must learn to be mentally prepared to face challenging opponents and overcome hard obstacles on the mat.

Wrestlers train to develop a strong work ethic, and discipline pushing themselves to their limits in training and constantly striving for improvement. They also learn to embrace the grind, as the sport requires patience and intense physical exertion through long and tough training sessions.

They develop resilience and build the confidence to bounce back from losses and setbacks. Overall, the wrestling mindset is about staying focused, being adaptable, and having the confidence to take risks and seize opportunities.

All in all, the wrestling mindset is a unique combination of mental and physical strength that sets wrestlers apart.

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What is better for MMA Fighters? Wrestling or BJJ?

When it comes to mixed martial arts, the entire combat family tree is utilized. Some MMA fighters are great at multiple fighting styles which allows them to dominate those who have only specialized in one or two fighting styles.

Wrestling provides a strong foundation in takedowns, control, and ground-and-pound, all of which are crucial aspects in Mixed Martial arts. Being a good wrestler will help you dictate where the fight takes place and dominate opponents with superior grappling and groundwork.

On the contrary, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses on a variety of submissions, sweeps, and ground fighting techniques. These are highly effective in finishing fights or defending against opponents’ attacks.

Many big names in MMA have backgrounds in both wrestling and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, the reason for this is that sports complement each other well in an MMA fight and are form the same combat family tree.

Therefore it is not wise to place one over the other, in MMA fights, the more skilled you are in a variety of popular martial arts, the better.

The benefits of combining Wrestling and BJJ

Combining wrestling and BJJ techniques can be a game-changer in MMA fights. Being a skilled wrestler helps you perform effective takedowns and strengthens you as a ground fighter. When you combine these skills with Brazilian jiu-jitsu, which emphasizes entirely on-ground combat and submission techniques, you become a force to be reckoned with in the octagon.

Fighters who regularly train wrestling as well as become a top BJJ and wrestling athlete develop a solid skill set that allows them to easily get into dominant positions during fights. Essentially, both of these are just wrestling styles, this is why combining them makes for an excellent all-rounded athlete.

Similarities of Wrestling and BJJ

Wrestling and BJJ have several important similarities as they are pretty much just different wrestling styles. Both of these sports focus on grappling and ground fighting techniques, which means they involve a lot of groundwork and close-quarters combat.

In both wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you learn how to control your opponent, whether it’s through takedowns, pins, or wrestling submissions. Both of these disciplines require strength, agility, reflexes, and mobility, as well as mental toughness and strategy.

Technique and leverage is also hugely emphasized, this allows smaller fighters to easily overcome larger opponents. So, whether you’re on the wrestling mat or the BJJ mat, you will find that the two share many aspects.

Final Thoughts

With everything into consideration, it can be concluded that by a slight edge, wrestling is harder than Jiu-Jitsu and BJJ. However, this depends on you and your training conditions, if you have a good coach, discipline and a grind mindset, wrestling might be easier.

On the other hand if you are a quick learner when it comes to techniques and little details, Jiu-Jitsu might be easier for you.

None the less, both these sports are hard and it will take you years to master either one of them.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s harder to learn, BJJ or Wrestling?

Both BJJ and Wrestling are difficult to master sports. They require years of dedication, hard work, and discipline. As for one being harder to learn than the other, it is hard to decide as there are many variables.

It is common for beginners to find developing wrestling skills significantly harder because of the intensity and physicality required in a wrestling match. On the other hand, some say that BJJ is harder because of the plethora of techniques involved. BJJ contains both submission grappling, wrestling and freestyle wrestling.

Overall, the sport that is harder depends on your strengths and weaknesses.

How do wrestling rules differ from BJJ’s rules?

The rules of wrestling and BJJ are quite different. In wrestling, your goal is to score points by taking your opponent down, getting them in a pinning position, or executing certain moves and techniques. The wrestling match is usually divided into periods or rounds. Points are awarded based on takedowns, escapes, and reversals.

In BJJ, the objective is to make your opponent tap out by applying joint locks or chokes. You can win matches by achieving a submission, accumulating points for dominant positions, or winning on advantages gained throughout the match.

Both sports involve grappling, however, it is the specific rules and objectives that set them apart.

Is Jiu-Jitsu a hard sport?

Indeed, Jiu-Jitsu is a very technical sport with a lot of competition. It requires years of hard work, discipline, and dedication to become one of the many great Jiu-jitsu fighters.

It is a grappling arts-focused martial art that has a huge variety of easy, intermediate, and difficult to master techniques that require an immense amount of practice.

Is wrestling one of the hardest sports?

Wrestling is indeed one of the hardest sports to become good at. At competitions like the Wrestling World Championships, you will find that the athletes who excel, are those decades of experience. Wrestling matches are long, intense and both mentally and physically draining and the same goes for training.

Training for wrestling compared to other sports is also significantly more difficult. There are a variety of superior takedowns and stand-up techniques you will need to learn, and also how to get into a dominant position or standing position during fights.

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Looking to unleash your inner fighter? You’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will be going through all the fundamentals of starting mixed martial arts from scratch and how to get into mma.

From training to recovery, to what equipment you will need, and everything in between. Read below to learn all you need to know to embark on your new journey as an aspiring MMA fighter.

How to get into MMA

To start MMA, there are a few fundamental steps you must follow to begin your journey properly. Start by joining a hygienic gym with good equipment and experienced coaches, train a few times every week, and also incorporate strength training.

After you gain some experience and confidence in your skills, begin competing. This will mark the start of your amateur MMA career.

Find A Reputable Gym And Start Training Sessions

Training at home is significantly harder than at a proper MMA gym. You will need to buy expensive equipment and you will likely feel the lack of space for training at home.

On the other hand, joining a local gym will give you access to a plethora of specialized equipment, experienced coaches, and other aspiring athletes. All of which will contribute to helping you get better.

Start Competing

Training is not everything, to begin your career, you will eventually have to start competing in tournaments and small amateur fights. This will help you showcase your skills and what you’ve learned in training.

As you gain experience and fight IQ, you will go against bigger names and earn more. Eventually, you will be ready to transition to a professional fighter by joining an official organization.

When you start training, chances are you will realize how big the skill gap is between an amateur versus a professional. When we started to realize even the difference between someone who competes a lot versus a hobbyist, we knew that there were truly levels to this.

You have to go in playing the long game. If your goal is to turn this into your career, you can do so but it will come at a cost.

Spend 10,000 hours training

Regardless of the sport, whether it’s football, golf, or a combat sport, you need to put the hours in to get better. It is unrealistic to expect to become a professional athlete or MMA fighter overnight. It will take years of blood, sweat, and tears to become great.

Work hard, train regularly, focus on building a solid foundation, and most importantly, enjoy the journey of climbing to the top.

How Long Does It Take To Become A Professional MMA Fighter?

Quick note: If you are asking this question, you probably don’t have what it takes to make it to the highest levels.

The amount of time it takes to become a professional MMA fighter varies from person to person but it will not happen overnight and it may take a decade.

It usually depends on several factors, such as your starting point, training frequency, natural talent, how quickly you progress, and the level of coach you have.

In most cases it takes several years of consistent training, improving your skills in different disciplines, and gaining experience through amateur competitions, and fights before going pro.

How many classes should you take each week

The amount of weekly classes and training sessions you should take depends on your training experience. As a beginner, you should not be training MMA more than three to four times a week. With this routine, you can prioritize strength training alongside proper rest and recovery.

You must understand your body has certain limits, pushing past those limits will lead to overtraining which can cause injuries.

Can you start MMA with no experience?

Most MMA fighters begin their journey from scratch and so can you. If you are willing to work hard and create a passion for this sport, you too can build a career without any prior combat sport experience.

The most important step is to take the first leap and begin your journey, join an MMA gym, and hire a coach to train you and guide you through the fundamentals of your journey and you are set for greatness.

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How Much Does A Beginner MMA Fighter Make Per Year?

The number a beginner fighter makes varies widely on several factors. It depends on your skill level, experience, the promotion you compete in, as well as the amount of audience you bring in.

In the earlier stages, one usually competes in small local events and fights that could pay them anything from a hotdog and a few bucks, to a couple of hundred dollars.

However, if you’re good, this is your opportunity to build a name for yourself and attract the attention of bigger promotions.

MMA is not known to pay its warriors as well as boxing or other disciplines do. Top-ranked stars in promotions such as the UFC, Bellator, and ONE can expect to get paid a few million dollars a year.

You could expect to hone your skills and maintain a nice record until you get noticed and scooped up into the big leagues.

In the age of social media and programs like Dana White’s Contender Series, your big break could come sooner than expected. Just remember to chase excellence and the money will follow.

MMA Gear You Will Need

When you are just starting your MMA training, there are a few different pieces of equipment and clothing you will need. These will help you stay safe, avoid injuries, and make your training efficient.

MMA Gloves

Unlike boxing gloves where the entire hand and wrist are covered, in MMA gloves, your palms and fingers are left open. This allows a larger range of motion for when you need to pull off submissions.

There is also extra padding on the knuckles to ensure the safety of your opponents. A good pair of gloves will go a long way so invest in them well.

Shin Guards

In MMA, you will often find yourself being kicked, especially on your shins. As a beginner it is important to slowly strengthen your shins, this will increase your bone density and pain tolerance.

This is where shin guards come in, which mainly cover your calves from your ankles to your knees when practicing kicking. Shin guards are a must-have for efficient training, especially for Muay Thai kicks.

Rash Guards & Shorts

Although not necessary, wearing rashguards and BJJ shorts is a great way to maintain good hygiene and stay safe from rashes and cuts during groundwork.

These are skin-tight leggings and shorts, made from stretchy, lightweight, and breathable materials to ensure your range of motion is not compromised and that sweating is reduced.

Headgear (optional)

MMA fighting is a mix of many combat sports, with a variety of techniques, striking is one of them. You will often find yourself getting punched on or around your head.

As a beginner, it is highly recommended to begin your sparring training while wearing headgear. This will protect your noggin and face, and allow you to build a stronger chin and jaw without hurting yourself too much.

At what age should you start MMA?

Training to become a good MMA fighter is a lifelong commitment, for most people, the earlier they start the better. Children can start training casually at ages 5 and above, at this age they should be taught basic punches and techniques. This will allow them to increase coordination, build discipline, and have fun with physical activity.

On the other hand, for harder training and intermediate techniques, it’s usually recommended to wait until the teenage years around 13-14. At this age, the body is significantly stronger and will respond better to physically demanding training.

However, safety should always be your highest priority. Regardless of age, physical ability, and prior martial arts experience, you should join a reputed martial arts gym with experienced instructors.

MMA Sparring: The Do’s And Don’ts

Do’s

  1. Warm Up Properly: Before sparring, it is important to warm up to avoid injuries, make sure to perform some dynamic stretching and bodyweight exercises like pushups and pullups

  2. Wear Protective Gear: As a beginner, you and your training partners need to wear mouthguards, shin guards, and headgear during sparring sessions to ensure safety

  3. Establish Boundaries: Before you start training, discuss with your sparring partners what you want to train e.g. striking, kicking, or grappling as well as the intensity

  4. Focus on technique: Make sure to practice techniques and range of motion before going all out in terms of intensity

Don’ts

  1. Remain Calm: In training, aggression will not get you anywhere, focus on learning from your mistakes and refining your techniques.

  2. Respect your coach’s advice: Make sure to listen to what your coach has to say to improve and sharpen your skills.

  3. Learn the safety precautions: It is important to know when to tap out and when to let go of holds, chokes, and submissions.

BJJ vs MMA Grappling: Similarities And Differences

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts are both excellent combat sports with several similarities, however, there are also some key differences. Both focus on ground fighting and submission techniques.

Both of them involve grappling, wrestling, joint locks, and chokes, as ways to control and make your opponent tap. The difference is that BJJ is more specialized in ground fighting and submission holds, while MMA also incorporates a wider range of striking and kicking techniques from various martial arts disciplines and other combat sports like boxing, and Muay Thai.

In Mixed Martial Arts, grappling, wrestling, and groundwork in general, is just one aspect of the sport, along with striking, kicking, and other skills.

So although both sports share many similarities, on a broader scale, they have different styles. Grappling is the main component of BJJ, while it is just one component of MMA training alongside several others.

BJJ Grappling

When it comes to grappling in BJJ, the goal is to use bodyweight leverage and technique to overcome and subdue an opponent, even if they’re bigger. In BJJ grappling training, learning positions like mount, guard, and side control, as well as submission holds like chokes and joint locks all hold huge significance.

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, grappling is all about strategy, timing, and technique to gain the upper hand against your opponent.

MMA Grappling

As for MMA, grappling is an important component of mixed martial arts. It combines a plethora of techniques from various groundwork combat sports like BJJ, wrestling, and judo.

Fighters mainly use grappling to control their opponents in MMA. It allows them to take them down to the ground, work for submissions and ground-and-pound strikes. Grappling in MMA is significantly harder as it involves techniques of multiple martial arts, like takedowns, ground control, transitions, and submissions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Amateur MMA Fights Do You Need To Turn Pro?

The number of amateur fights you need to become a professional fighter can vary from person to person. There isn’t a fixed number because, it depends on many factors such as your skill level, experience, wins and losses streak, and the requirements of the promotion you want to join.

In most cases, fighters should accumulate a solid record of amateur wins to gain experience, sharpen their skills, and showcase their talent. Some talented and genetically gifted fighters turn pro after just a few amateur fights, while others prefer to gain more experience before leaping into their professional career.

Is Becoming A Pro MMA Fighter Worth It?

When it comes to answering if being a Professional MMA fighter is worth it or not, the answer differs from person to person.

If you aim to gain respect from millions around the world and make good money as a pro fighter, then becoming a professional MMA fighter might be the right choice for you. But all of this is only possible until you make it to a big promotion.

On the other hand, if you want to live a long healthy life, free from injuries and getting punched in the face for a living, training MMA casually is the right choice for you.

Can Anyone go into MMA?

MMA is for everyone, anyone can get into mixed-martial arts if they have the mindset, passion, dedication, and willingness to put in the hard work. It is a combat sport that welcomes people from all walks and fields of life, regardless of age, gender, or background with no discrimination.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some prior martial arts experience, there are training programs and gyms that can help you develop the skills needed for your choice of martial art.

Is 25 too late to get into MMA?

There is no age limit when it comes to getting into a combat sport. There are many examples of fighters who began late, yet dominated their class and built a successful career.

One example is Michael Bisping, who began MMA training at 24 and within a few years, became the UFC middleweight champion. Former UFC heavyweight superstar Francis Ngannou also began pretty his MMA training late but was able to win the heavyweight title.

These and many others prove that if you are willing to put in countless hours of pain, struggle, dedication, and hard work, you too can become one of the many successful fighters.

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Are you looking to become a better wrestler? If you are, you’ve come to the right place.

In this article, we’ll be going through the following wrestling drills:

  • Shot & Re-Shot Drills

  • Cradle Drill

  • Shot Transition Drill

  • Takedown to Pin

  • Hand Control Drills

  • Clearing Collar Ties

  • Whizzer Drills

  • Speed Drills

These will help you master techniques and build strong reflexes. Continue reading to learn all about wrestling drills and moves and how to properly execute them.

Wrestling Drills

Wrestling drills are a great way to progress your technique and form in a quick and efficient manner. There are many different types of wrestling drills which are interesting, challenging, and progressive.

Below listed are some of the best drills you can do especially if you are a youth wrestler or a beginner.

Shot & Re-Shot Drills

These drills are excellent for improving your takedown skills, reflexes, and reaction time. Begin by taking a shot at your opponent’s legs as you would in a double-leg takedown, focusing on proper technique and explosiveness.

After you have completed the initial shot, immediately transition into a re-shot position, simulating your opponent sprawling or countering your first takedown attempt.

This wrestling drill helps you develop quick reflexes, reaction time, and the ability to chain together an array of well-thought-out attacks. Practice these drills regularly to enhance your takedown effectiveness and maintain control when you wrestle.

Cradle Drill

The Cradle drill is one of the best wrestling drills. If done right, it can give you a significant advantage on the mat. Start by getting a hold of your opponent’s head and arm, and secure them in a cradle position.

From there, work on locking your hands and applying pressure to control your opponent. Practice rolling your opponent onto their back while maintaining control of the cradle.

Regularly practicing this drill will help you develop the strength, coordination, and timing necessary to properly execute the cradle move and take advantage of potential pinning opportunities.

 

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Shot Transition Drill

This is one of the best wrestling drills which focuses on seamless transitions between different takedown attempts. Begin by aiming and shooting for a single-leg takedown, then quickly transition to a double-leg or high crotch if your initial attempt is countered or defended.

This will help you develop the ability to chain together different attacks and take advantage of openings. Make sure to regularly practice shot transitions, and you’ll become more unpredictable and versatile in your takedown game, increasing your chances of scoring points and pins.

Takedown to Pin

This drill combines two important skills into a powerful and effective sequence. To start, execute a takedown, such as a double leg or single leg, bringing your opponent to the mat.

Once you’ve secured the takedown, and are in the top position, work on transitioning into a pinning combination, such as a half-nelson or a cradle.

This helps youth wrestlers develop their ability to seamlessly transition from a takedown to a pinning position, maximizing their scoring potential in matches.

Hand Control Drills

Hand control is one of the essential skills in wrestling, these drills focus on securing the stance and motion of your opponent by countering their hand movements. Practicing techniques such as pummeling and wrist control can help youth wrestlers improve grip strength, reflexes, and hand speed.

By having good hand control, you can counter and disrupt your opponent’s attacks and attempted takedowns, set up your offense, and maintain a dominant position.

Clearing Collar Ties

Clearing collar ties is an effective skill that helps you break free from your opponent’s grip on your collar. To practice this move, start by having your partner establish a collar tie on you.

Then, use your hand to grip their wrist or forearm, then quickly and forcefully pull down and away, this will create space between you and your opponent.

Simultaneously, stand up, step to the side and rotate your body to break their grip even more. Repeat this drill from both sides to develop the strength, speed, technique, and timing needed to effectively clear collar ties.

Whizzer Drills

The Whizzer is a defensive move used to counter your opponent’s takedown attempts and maintain a dominant position in a match.

To practice whizzers, begin by having your partner shoot for a takedown, such as a single leg or double leg. As they start their takedown, quickly step back and move your leg across their body, placing your arm over their shoulder and gripping their waist.

Then stand up, apply pressure with your arm and rotate your body, this will prevent your opponent from finishing the takedown. Repeat and practice this exercise from different angles and positions to improve your technique, balance, and reaction time.

Speed Drills

Speed and reflex are crucial aspects of wrestling, as they allow you to quickly react to your opponent’s movements and execute your offensive movements.

Adding a speed and motion drill into your training routine will help you improve your agility, quickness, and explosiveness. There are several speed drills you can incorporate into your weekly training routine, such as ladder drills, agility cone drills, or reaction drills.

These movements mostly involve quick footwork, change of direction, and explosive movements. By regularly incorporating speed drills into your training routine, you can enhance your overall athleticism on the mat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What exercises help in wrestling?

Some exercises that help in wrestling are weightlifting like squats and power cleans, plyometrics like box jumps, core exercises like hanging leg raises, cardio like sprinting, and bodyweight exercises like pull-ups, push-ups, and stand-ups. These exercises can help improve your wrestling stance, strength, explosiveness, stability, and endurance for amateur wrestling.

Actively training flexibility and mobility are also good habits. This can help you get better in the neutral position and the bottom position. Your stance and motion hold huge importance as a wrestler on the mat so make sure to prioritize it.

How to practice wrestling without a partner?

You can still practice wrestling, even if you do not have a training partner. Shadow wrestling, footwork drills, and strength training are all exercises exercises on your own. Keep practicing these and you’ll see progress in your technique, strength, and speed.

How can I increase my quickness for wrestling?

Increasing your quickness for wrestling is a simple and to-the-point process. You can try agility drills, plyometric exercises, and footwork practice, all of which are excellent options. These will help improve your speed, explosive power, and reaction time.

How can I improve my shot in wrestling?

When it comes to improving your shot in wrestling, the answer is simple. Practice, practice, and some more practice. Shooting is a skill and will only get better with experience. Focus on your stance, drive, set up, and penetration step to make progress at shooting.

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