1. Takes Two to Tangle
Combat sports involve two contestants who compete by laying hands on each other in whatever fashion the particular sport allows. Some common examples of combat sports are boxing, wrestling and kickboxing. Most martial arts are considered combat sports, especially when the rules of engagement include physical contact with your opponent.
2. Cross Train for Combat
While you will want to work on the specific areas that you'll use in the ring to overpower your opponent, the best trained combatants are fit all over. Cross training is superb for combat sports because you will gain strength, agility and flexibility through a variety of workout routines. You will increase your stamina through aerobics and outlast your opponent. Your reflexes will be sharper if you have practiced other sports that require your attention and quick response. Get involved in at least one other sport to practice when you are not training for a meet and vary your gym routines to touch every muscle group.
3. Think About it
Mental health is as important as physical strength and abilities in combat sports. Much of the competition includes psyche-outs and manipulation. You should include a regimen of mental exercises to keep yourself alert and relaxed. Practice meditation to clear the mind of unwanted useless thoughts. Develop a prayer technique that allows you to work out your fears and frustrations. Talk to a therapist about any anger issues that may arise while you are fighting. Coming at an opponent with rage will only cause you to make a mistake and miss opportunities. Don't let rage blind your movements. Also, take time before every meet and training session to let go of the outside world. It will be there when you return. Combat sports require your undivided attention.
4. Get the Gear
Most rules for amateur and professional combat sport engagements require a certain amount of protective gear to be worn at all times. This gear could include helmets or half-helmets, gloves and mouth guards. While you cannot compete without these accessories, you may get away without using them when you are training, but it's not a good idea. Not only will the recommended gear protect you while training, but it also will get you accustomed to fighting with the gear in place.
5. Let it Heal
Combat sports tend to bring out the adrenaline like no other competition. The body's flight or fight response system has been working on overtime in the ring and often continues to pump adrenaline and lactic acid through your body after the meet. Use a sports massage therapist to work out the kinks and push the unwanted chemicals through your blood stream. The therapist's touch also can help you identify any minor or major muscles tears or bone splinters that may have occurred in the ring.
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