MMA stands for Martial Mixed Arts. This sport is a complete contact sports which incorporates different techniques of various martial arts. In MMA, the fighters can strike as well as a grapple, this is the beauty of this sports.
During a review of UFC in 1993, the word MMA was used first time by TV critic Howard Rosenberg.
MMA as a Modern Sport
Modern MMA competition evolved from various contents that were held throughout Europe, Japan, and the Pacific countries during the early 20th Century. Sambo, a martial art and combat sport which originated in Russia, included the styles of wrestling, judo, striking, etc.
The blending of various elements and combat styles of various martial arts was brought to light by Bruce Lee in the 1960s and 1970s. According to Bruce Lee, the best fighter is someone who is formless and can adapt to any style. In 2004, Dana White, the former President of UFC gave the title of ‘father of mixed martial arts’ to Bruce Lee.
Regulation of MMA Competitions
Earlier, the world experienced many mixed martial arts competitions like the Vale Tudo events in Brazil, Shooto contests in Japan, etc. On March 20, 1980, CV Productions hosted the Tough Guy Contest in the USA, which was the first regulated MMA competition. But in 1983, the State Senate banned this sport for reasons unknown. Then it got reintroduced as UFC aka Ultimate Fighting Championship.
On April 3, 2001, the New, Jersey State Athletic Control Board (NJSACB) held a meeting to discuss the regulation of mixed martial arts events. At the end of the meeting, all the organizations and regulatory bodies present there, agreed upon a set of uniform rules to govern the sport of mixed martial arts. On July 30, 2009, these rules set by the NJSACB were adopted as the “Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts “by the Association of Boxing Commissions.
The popularity of MMA as a sport
MMA is a perfect entertainer for combat sports enthusiasts and viewers. It is interesting to note that mixed martial arts training has many physical and health benefits.
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Weight Loss –
With all the drilling and sparring sessions involved, it’s natural for you to lose some excess pounds. You will lose weight and also learn new skills.
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Better heart health –
MMA training involves intense cardio exercises, which improve the functioning of the heart and reduces the chances of occurrence of many dangerous diseases.
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Develop Strength –
MMA training lays emphasis on bodyweight training. As a result, your muscles become strong, and it increases the capacity of them expand and contract.
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Develop Confidence –
MMA training can keep one healthy and fit. As a result, you gain more confidence in your appearance as well as your defensive skills.
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Reduce Stress and Anxiety –
MMA training aids in the release of pent up anger and stress. By punching and grappling dummies, you can release your frustrations and worries.
MMA is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. Though it is one of the bloodiest sport on the planet, there have been almost no cases of players being severely injured. There have been no scandals in MMA so far. Unlike other sports, MMA doesn’t have extensive rules and regulations. It is because of this reason that the sport is extremely popular now. MMA is the only martial arts sport which has kept the purity of it over the years.
