Getting good at fighting

Fighting is a skill

Fighting is a skill that necessitates practice. Just as we would not anticipate a novice artist to replicate the Mona Lisa, we cannot expect a beginner fighter to compete against a seasoned professional.

To select a fighter for their first match, it is essential to consider their technical level, training, and readiness with the initial fights having opponents of similar skill levels to ensure a fair bout.

As fighters gain experience and skill through fighting and continuous improvement through training, they can gradually progress to higher levels of competition. This progression involves stepping up the intensity and complexity of training, participating in more challenging fights, and continuously honing technical abilities. By focusing on skill development and gradual exposure to greater challenges, fighters can build the confidence and competency necessary to compete professionally.

Level one

A fighters first fight will be at an event called an ‘interclub’. Fights at interclubs are non decision bouts with the power being controlled. This means that inexperienced fighters technical flaws will not be punished by being knocked out and that they can learn to deal with the pressure of a fight without being punished if they panic.

The great thing about an interclub is that a potential fighter is able to find out if they actually enjoy fighting. Someone trying to hurt you or you trying to hurt someone is not everyone’s cup of tea! An interclub is a great way to discover if this is a path you want to walk. I have met many a potential fighter who is very talented, hard working and dominates in sparring for it all to fall apart in a fight.

Learning new skills

Once a fighter has had their first fight (and wish to continue) they can learn from the experience. Fighting is like a cheat code it will expose what a fighter strengths and weaknesses faster than just training. The coach and fighter can then take this information back to the gym and hone the fighters technical and tactical skills. This will allow the fighter to level up there skills so that by the time of the next bout they have taken a step up and can perform better.

A mistake a lot of fighters make is not taking the time to learn between fights and actually learn how to be a better fighter. They rush from fight to fight and wonder why they are not improving and/or winning fights.

Leveling up

A fighter must learn how to fight, and the only effective way to do this is through experience in the ring. Fighters typically begin their journey with low-level bouts, such as interclub matches, and progress to amateur fights when they are ready.

Amateur fights are full-contact, decision-based competitions, where knockouts are permitted, and one competitor will be declared the winner at the end of the match. These amateur bouts are crucial for fighters to determine their skills and potential in combat sports.

If a fighter competes five times and loses each match, it may indicate that fighting isn’t the best path for them. However, if they win consistently—acknowledging that occasional losses are part of the learning process—they can advance to professional fights. This further development continues until they reach their peak, which could range from becoming a journeyman to achieving the status of world champion. Time, training, talent, dedication and experience will ultimately dictate the outcome.

There is more to martial arts than fighting

Not everyone is destined to be a fighter, but that doesn't diminish what martial arts can offer. The practice of martial arts comes with numerous benefits, including improved physical health, the joy of acquiring new skills, and the ability to overcome both mental and physical challenges. The reasons to engage in martial arts are numerous and diverse.

It's important to recognize that only a small percentage of individuals who practice martial arts will ultimately pursue competition as fighters. However, if you're curious about exploring this discipline or wish to enjoy its various benefits, we are here to assist you. Take the opportunity to book your free trial class and discover the journey that lies ahead!