[fullerene]

Long-term my goal is to try MMA fighting, preferably in a cage.

But I'm realistic and I know that 've got a ways to go before I'm ready so right now I'm focusing on getting into shape. My goals are to build speed and explosiveness and then to lose whatever weight I need to (I'll probably cut as much water weight as possible, too). After that, I'm going to start training in specific styles such as Sambo and BJJ.

My strength goals will be to enable me to do either of two things:

1. Stop my opponent's takedowns and keep the fight standing
2. Take my opponent down for ground and pound

I've joined a health club and I'll post my routine after I meet with the fitness orientation guy.

Thanks in advance for any good advice or encouragement!

[mschatz]

Welcome. Are you doing your fight training at the same gym?

[YeahBee]

Good luck dude

[Krossinc]

Dear lord he called it ultimate fighting. Someone get me a pitchfork and a torch.

[HellIsForHeroes]

The health club part got me.

[fullerene]

Originally Posted by mschatz

Welcome. Are you doing your fight training at the same gym?

Thanks. The firght trainig comes later. I'm not focusing on that at first.

Originally Posted by YeahBee

Good luck dude

Thanks dude

[HellIsForHeroes]

When do you meet with the fitness dude?

[fullerene]

Well, whatever the trainer had me do yesterday, it must have worked b/c I'm sore as all get out this morning. I did a complete circuit of machines--upper body and lower body. It was more to get familiar with what is what. I told the trainer I wanted to focus more on power excercises, but she said it's best for beginners to start with a standard workout plan. I guess she's the CPT, not me, but I'm not looking to enter a bodybuilding or powerlifting contest, I want to be conditioned for fighting, so I'll probably change things up after a couple of week.

My early thoughts are that I should especially focus on my calves for explosivity and my upper arms to develop punching power. Any thoughts?

[DEVILsSON]

Read the Frequently Asked Questions in the Strength and Power forum.

Your trainer sounds misinformed. I would save the money and instead read as much as you can on proper training. You have all the resources at your fingertips.

Your calves and your arms have almost nothing to do with explosiveness or punching/kicking power. The power comes from the legs, hips, back, and punching technique. Your arms and calves serve as links in a kinetic chain in transmitting the power generated by hip/legs/back/core/etc to your fists and feet.....

Start learning PROPER technique for Squat, Deadlift, Standing Overhead Press, Chin Ups, Bent Over Rows, Power Cleans, etc.

If you need to consult someone on proper form and you intend to pay money then at least make sure they are Strength and Conditioning coach with CSCS accreditation. Do not go to everyday personal trainers....most dont know shit...

Also order of importance should be

MMA training
Conditioning
Mobility/Flexibility
Strength and Power

these aspects crossover and can often be combined into one workout however that's usually the priority order people have when training for fighting.

Also the amount of soreness does not necessarily indicate the efficacy of a program.

On a side note...slap your CPT for making you do a machine circuit. Once for you and once for me. Once on each cheek. Thanks

Good luck bro.

[erco]

I bet she was hot though.