Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)

This hub brings together my work on mixed martial arts training, coaching, analysis, wrestling, striking, grappling and the tactical problems that connect them.

MMA is not simply a collection of separate styles. The most interesting problems appear in the transitions between ranges and phases, where striking, clinching, wrestling and grappling influence one another.

MMA coaching and training

Good MMA training should prepare athletes to make decisions under pressure while preserving the relationships between striking, takedowns, clinch work, ground control and submissions.

For broader coaching principles, visit Martial Arts Coaching & Skill Acquisition. For ecological and constraints-led practice, see Ecological Dynamics & the Constraints-Led Approach for Martial Arts.

Striking and MMA

MMA striking changes when takedowns, clinches and the cage are present. Distance, stance, rhythm and defensive choices all have to account for the wider rules of the sport.

See Ecological Approach to MMA Striking with Scott Sievewright and Mittmaster Matt Chapman on MMA padwork.

Wrestling, clinch and takedowns

Wrestling is one of the key connecting skills in MMA because it links striking to control, takedowns, cage work and ground phases.

Relevant resources include Brian Ebersole on wrestling and competition mindset, Matt Lindland on wrestling, coaching and risk and A Game Sense Style Pedagogy for Teaching Beach Wrestling.

Grappling for MMA

Grappling changes when strikes, the cage and the possibility of standing back up are part of the environment. Positional choices, submissions and guard strategies have to be understood in that context.

See A Study of Pulling Guard in MMA for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Fighters, The Bulldog Choke in MMA and Williams Guard for BJJ & MMA.