Mixed martial arts have never been more popular. You are thinking about taking this route to getting in better shape. Along with determining which types of martial arts you want to pursue, there’s the matter of deciding what you need in the way of gear. Here are some tips that will help you choose MMA gear that will serve you well.
Which Mixed Martial Arts Have You Chosen?
So what do you wear to MMA? To some degree, it depends on what blend of martial arts you’ve chosen. In some cases, you’ll need to invest in traditional garb designed specifically for that particular art. At other times, the clothing you select will be similar to the outfit you would wear for any type of workout.
The best way to determine what sort of clothing you need for each class is to talk with the instructor. If there is the need for something special, the instructor usually has a list on hand. It’s not unusual for gyms offering MMA classes to have a shop on the premises that carries any specialty items their clients need.
For example, you want to include some type of boxing in your list of MMA classes. What kind of gloves do MMA fighters use? Depending on your class, you may need something simple like a set of sparring gloves. Perhaps you do need something with more padding. Since the right type of clothing and accessories will help you get more benefits from each class, it pays to invest in whatever the instructors recommend.
Material That Allows Your Skin to Breathe
While there may be some difference in the attire you select, there are qualities that each item must possess. One is material made using fibers that allow the skin to breathe. Proper air circulation is good for you on several levels. It helps to keep you slightly cooler during an intense workout. It will also be more likely to prevent perspiration from clinging to your skin. You’ll find that when you feel more comfortable it’s easier to concentrate on the workout and maybe even keep going for a longer period of time.
Remember that natural fibers like cotton are often a good choice. You’ll also find that some blends of synthetic and natural fibers will produce similar results. If you’re not sure which would be best, try purchasing one of each type. It won’t take long to figure out which one helps you feel cooler and a little more comfortable. At that point, you can buy a couple of additional outfits.
Form Fitting But Not Too Tight
With many workout clothes, it’s important that they not be baggy or ill-fitting. The extra material tends to get in the way and prevents you from getting as much benefit from those workouts. A better approach is to invest in clothing that conforms to the contours of your body. The lack of more material will make it easier to move with ease, something that will be important with just about any type of mixed martial art.
The thing to remember is that form-fitting does not mean that you need MMA shorts and shirts that are too tight. In their way, they can restrict your movements just as much as selecting baggy clothing. Something that fits comfortably and allows you to mover your arms and legs freely is what you need. Remember that you should also be capable of bending at the waist without anything digging into your middle.
Something That Wicks Moisture
As you check the material used for your workout clothing, find out if it’s been treated to wick moisture. That’s a great way to deal with the perspiration that is sure to happen as you work out. The material will help lift the moisture off your skin and hold it in the material. The result is that you are less likely to have sweat that ends up making your hands slippery or leaves you with that cold, clammy feeling. Instead, the wicking helps you remain a little cooler so you can enjoy the workout more.
Don’t Forget Footwear
Much of your concentration is on the workout clothing that you select, but there’s something else to think about closely. That’s they type of footwear you choose for each class.
It’s true that some of your classes will not require any footwear at all. Other forms of mixed martial arts do require that you select footwear that provides additional stability to the ankles, includes soles that will not skid on different types of surfaces, and that conform to your feet without pinching the toes, or heels. They should be snug enough to not slip as you move; this helps to prevent chafing on the instep and other parts of the foot.
Cushioning is also something you should think about carefully. Some of your classes will take place in settings with nothing other than a thin mat between your feet and a concrete floor. Assuming shoes or boots are right for the type of class you are taking, make sure the cushioning is enough to absorb the shock of quick movements on hard surfaces. This eases stress on the feet and lower legs, and prevent muscle cramps and other issues that could impair your ability to get the most from the class.
Along with the choice of footwear, think about what kind socks you will wear. They should also do a good job of wicking moisture away from the feet. A good rule of thumb is to select the socks first and then wear a pair of them while choosing your footwear. This will ensure the fit is perfect.
Durability Matters
Remember that your workout gear will see a lot of action. That means it’s in your best interest to invest in clothing that is designed to hold up well. Focus your search on garments that are made with durable materials. Spending a little more for a shirt or a pair of shorts that’s made with higher quality fiber means you won’t have to replace your workout clothing as often. It will likely feel better against your skin. You get more comfort and also save money in the long run.
Along with being the right type and style for your classes, they should also be easy to clean. Become a label reader and know exactly what process the manufacturer recommends to properly clean the clothing. Your best bet is to go with things that can go directly in to the washing machine and placed in a dryer after laundering. When possible, avoid anything that needs to be hand-washed or that could fade if you needed to use some sort of spot remover to get of stubborn stains.
Gloves and Your MMA Workouts
You’ll find that many of the classes that are available involves using some type of glove. Knowing how to chose MMA gloves depends on understanding what is appropriate for each of those classes. Here are some examples of gloves that may be helpful.
Competition gloves look quite a bit like the gloves use when lifting weights. Sometimes called grappling gloves, this design covers most of the hand while leaving the fingers mainly exposed. They typically make it easier to grip and provide some padding for the lower parts of the fingers and some protection for the knuckles. At the same time, the gloves are flexible enough that your range of motion is not restricted.
Sparring MMA gloves are great when you are engaged in any sport that involves fist-fighting. The gloves are ideal for working out with a partner. They include enough padding to protect the fingers and the knuckles from any type of damage.
Boxing gloves provide more padding than sparring gloves. That’s important since they provide additional protection for the hands.
What are the best MMA gloves for you? Take a look at the list of clothing and accessories recommended for the class you are taking. That will help you know what types to buy and even provide some help in learning how to use them properly.
What About Accessories?
The right kind of MMA gloves are only one example of the equipment and accessories you may need for different classes. There are a few other accessories that may apply.
Wraps for your hands are often included in lists of essential MMA accessories. The wrap provides a measure of protection for the hands even if the sport does not require gloves. That same kind of wrap can also be used to protect other joints if needed.
Expect to purchase different types of guards if you want to take certain types of classes. A mouth guard is ideal for boxing and a number of other arts, since it helps to protect the teeth. Shin guards are a must for any type of activity that would involve contact with an opponent. You will also want to ensure that you have some type of groin guard for just about every type of mixed martial art class one can imagine. Quality MMA gear isn't too expensive but in case you need a financial support it is better to refer to trusted payday loan alternative companies, where you can get a MMA gear financing paying out small installments.
Are you ready to sign up for some MMA classes? Choose two or three that you think you will enjoy and that will help provide a whole-body workout. Once you sign up, invest in the right clothing, equipment, and accessories. It won’t take long to see why each of those purchases helps you enjoy more benefits from the classes and how they make it easier to avoid injuries.
