What Equipment Do You Need For MMA: The Full Guide
Mixed martial arts has a combination of a range of combat sports and martial arts from places around the world, with this said, it makes it such a unique and demanding discipline. If you are a beginner taking the step into the ring for the first time or a full-fledged pro looking for an upgrade, understanding what gear you need is the key to your success. This is a comprehensive guide to listing off all the essential gear you need to kill it in the MMA ring.
The Must-Haves
Before we dive into the crazy world of MMA, here are several pieces of equipment that are an absolute necessity for your own safety and performance.
Example Equipment
- MMA Gloves: For MMA it's required to wear a smaller and more flexible glove that can protect your hands while allowing you to grapple effectively.
- Mouth Guard: Not only do they protect your teeth but they also reduce the risk of concussion and should be non-negotiable.
- Shin guards: These are an essential for sparring sessions, shin guards protect yourself as well as your opponent from injuries.
- Headgear: While these are not always used when competing, a form of head protection will prevent serious injuries to the face and head.
- Rash guards: Rash guards help to minimize skin infections, cuts and abrasions, whilst also wicking away sweat to keep you comfortable during training.
The Good To Haves
Once you’ve got the basics of the sport down-packed, then these are also a few other pieces of equipment that are not essential but help elevate your training and preparation.
Example Equipment
- Hand Wraps: Offering the extra support you need for the protection of your hands and wrists under your gloves or on their own.
- Groin Protector: Are crucial for male fighters, as they protect against lower kicks and blows.
- Ankle Supports: These provide some stability for your ankle and reduce the risk of injury.
- Training Pads and Mitts: Great for training whilst learning how to strike with your opponent as they help improve your accuracy and aim.
What The Pros Have
Looking to take your MMA training to the next level? Here's what the pros implement into their training regimes.
Example Equipment
- Heavy Punching Bag: Using a heavy and durable punching bag is crucial for improving your striking power and techniques.
- Speed Bag: These improve your speed as well as your hand-eye coordination for accuracy.
- Strength and Conditioning Equipment: Strength and condition training is essential for being a pro, these include weights, resistance bands and other cardio machines and tools.
Lastly, it’s important to know that owning the right gear and equipment will help you achieve success in the sport as well as ensuring your safety. You should always consult your training coach or practitioner so that you are using the equipment correctly, to make the most out of your training.
