Traditional martial arts require that fighters abide by a set of rules while fighting. For example, you may only be allowed to fight standing up, striking certain body parts is not permitted. But mixed martial arts allow fighters to use many different strategies to tackle their opponents. The techniques allowed in mixed martial arts competitions can be dived in to two categories: grappling techniques (pinning holds, clinch holds, takedowns, sweeps, throws, and submission holds) or striking techniques (knees, punches, and kicks).
Most fighters must cross train with many different mixed martial arts styles in order to be effected in all phases of combat. A standing mixed martial arts fighter will also need to able to combat on the floor if he is taken to the ground.
Offensive based Mixed Martial Arts are incorporated into attacks as a means of wearing down an opponent. Perhaps the most popular is full contact karate, a technique that emphasizes the strength of the legs to wear down the endurance of another fighter and render the capability of his attacks to a much less powerful degree. While karate only uses kicking attacks, full form kickboxing complements attacks with upper body power that can deliver head shots or chest blows, both of which can wear down or even fully incapacitate an attacker.
Dirty Boxing and Clinch fighting use a clinching hold to keep the opponent from moving away for a better striking range. Takedowns are also attempted by using stomps, elbows, knees, and punches to strike the opponent. For extra effect, Thai kickboxing moves are also used. Mixed martial arts wrestlers can use this technique if the opponent has superior striking skills and to prevent take downs. Muay Thai mixed martial arts training will help to improve the accuracy of elbows and knees by controlling the opponent’s position.
Ground based Mixed Martial Arts are most common in UFC fights given the ease by which one can earn a submission if they can pull their opponent onto the floor. Ground grappling is less “pretty” than stand up form but is far more difficult due to the need to control your entire opponent’s weight along with your own.
We have several Chicago kickboxing locations in the area to serve you For other disciplines, such as Muay thai in Chicago please visit our website to learn more about out Chicago mixed martial arts clases