Q&A for How to Begin Mixed Martial Arts

The journey is different for everyone and it depends on how hard you work at it. I'd recommend you get started with a good instructor and go to train three times a week. Combine your training with running, cycling, or swimming and get in shape! Take your time and let yourself grow as a fighter; don't rush to start sparring or anything.

Mixed martial arts is an improvised version of any fighting style you've learned. It's your choice, you could make a mix that is defensive or offensive -- there are different styles for different scenarios, so it's your choice.

You can become a good fighter by training. The more hours you spend on training, the better you are going to be.

Don't try to fight outside of the dojo or class unless you're defending yourself. MMA should never be used as an offensive tool because you'll have an incredible advantage. Instead, try to talk to the person and calm them down.

If a person doesn't tap to a RNC, and it is tight enough, they will faint from lack of blood entering the brain. If this happens to someone, lean them up against a wall with their head up; some people convulse while they wake up.

You definitely will learn to fight proficiently with MMA. Grappling arts like jujitsu take a very long time to learn.

No. It's considered much more humiliating to be injured from not tapping out. Don't tap out without reason, but don't be afraid to tap when needed.

No. Kids can take classes at any age. However, to be a professional in MMA, you must be 18.

Start with boxing or kickboxing, as these teach the basic skills of MMA.

Nope. If you're thinking of competing professionally, there are many examples of successful fighters that started quite later than their peers. But keep in mind: the average physical prime age of a male is 25. The longer you wait, the harder it gets.

MMA is a fighting style that requires more than one person to properly train. However, certain warm-ups and practices can be done alone to increase speed and accuracy of technique for fundamental movements, such as shadow boxing, using dummies or punching bags for grappling movements and striking, and practicing footwork. Another core element of MMA is cardio, so that you don't get tired out in the ring.

Yes. MMA helps your discipline, concentration, and critical thinking skills. If you're overweight or unhealthy, MMA can also be the physical activity that you need to be healthier.

You can begin training around 15 years old.

Yes. MMA develops a wide range of muscles that you don't normally use in other sports or workouts. MMA will help you build meaningful and useful strength.

The most basic moves are jabs, hooks, straight kicks, side kicks and dodging the punches is crucial as well.

You should be at least 18 years of age. But be sure to check the age requirement for your state on the state's athletic commission website.

It's safe, but I wouldn't recommend it. You should be able to hear your opponent.

You should pick a simpler martial art, and take classes for that. Once you become familiar with specific techniques, you can work your way up to taking mixed martial arts classes.

Yes, there are many MMA instructors in Pakistan. Check Google to see if any are available in your area.

Yes, a mixture of martial arts (or MMA) is the most effective fighting style. This includes self defense. Check the minimum age at your local MMA gyms; if they have training for 14-year-olds, this would be a great time to start learning.

Glasses and contacts are not allowed in MMA. If your nearsightedness isn't too severe, you could potentially join.

No. It is recommended to start combat sports before the age of thirty-five, as this is when your body loses a large amount of growth potential; don't participate in combat sports over the age of fifty-five.

Go to a martial arts gym and sign up for a course. It will take at least three months to master an individual art; you'll likely need to train for at least a year before you should consider joining an organization.