MMA (Mixed Martial Arts)

But to define what mma truly is, you need to briefly study the history of combat.

Since the very beginning of time, man has pitted himself against his fellow man in a test of strength, courage, endurance and combat skills in the name of honor, prize, money and spectacle.

Murals dating back to the Bronze age of 2000 BC depict ancient wrestlers while paintings and literature of the Iron age shows of early boxing, but it was the ancient pankration events that were the for runner of today’s shows and when the mighty Roman Coliseum opened in 72 AD the world had its first and largest mixed martial arts venue.

Throughout the ages, the traveling, teachings and adaptations paved the way for many styles to emerge.

From India to Thailand, Korea, Japan, England and just about every other corner of the globe.

Events were created, some even incorporating all aspects of training, like modern mma.

But this separation and differences lead to a question almost as old as the arts themselves.

For generations people wanted to know,

• What was the best martial art?
• Would the Kick boxer beat the Judo player?
• Would the Boxer be able to stop the Wrestler?
• Would the Kung Fu guy really beat the Karate man?
• What would have the better striking capabilities, Savate or Muay Thai?

The birth of main stream mixed martial arts nearly 20 years ago soon answered that question with some surprises.

No one particular style could consistently beat all others, and people soon realised the benefit of what Bruce Lee had preached to the masses a generation before.

Cross training in multiple styles of martial arts, disregarding what doesn’t apply to you and embracing all that does was the only way to free your mind, body and spirit of limitations and restrictions and to become a complete martial artist.

Soon the phenomenon of modern MMA was born and is now the fastest growing sport in the world with the help of organisations like the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship).

Major money can be earned in purses, sponsorship opportunities, contacts and product placement deals.

The athletes are of the highest calibre in the world, so much so that just about every other sport now incorporates mma training into their regimes.

Constantly evolving, adapting and always growing.

Now that, I hope, defines mma enough to tempt you to come and try one of the most demanding, challenging, addictive and rewarding experiences of your life.

The mixed martial arts classes at Southend Combat Academy incorporate techniques from all martial arts including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, muay thai, wrestling, sombo, judo, self-defence and many others with a variety of the club's coaches.

The mma lessons cater for all experience levels from complete novice to professional fighter so we look forward to seeing you on the mat.

Southend Combat Academy is the home of champion martial artists and there is no better place in Southend or Essex to start your mixed martial arts training.