With the popularity of women’s MMA continuing to rise, varying viewpoints on the sport have formed. Many recognize it as a positive outlet for women. However, others regard it as dangerous and possibly even lethal. As such, many myths are circulating that cause women who want to try MMA to second-guess their ambition. And rather than seeing the advantages of mixed martial arts, they take these myths at face value, fearing women’s MMA is more harmful than helpful.
But the truth is this sport is a medium for growth. And many of these myths don’t stack up when you compare them to the benefits you have to gain. So here are 5 women’s MMA myths you should stop believing.
1. THE SPORT IS DANGEROUS
One pervasive myth is that MMA is dangerous. This misconception has caused many women to think they’ll experience severe injuries if they train. Unsurprisingly, this myth is untrue. Yes, bruises, sprains, and the occasional cut will occur (just like in other sports). However, most of these “injuries” will be minor. And what’s more, you’ll learn how to prevent such injuries while training. Some ways to avoid them can include:
- Stretching
- Light sparring to warm up
- Jogging, jumpings jacks, or light cardio
- Eating a balanced diet
- Getting enough rest each day
It is true that major injuries can occasionally occur (MMA is a combat sport, after all). However, they are rare. And the more you train, the better you’ll become at injury prevention.
2. PRIOR MARTIAL ARTS TRAINING IS REQUIRED
While previous fighting experience is helpful, it is not required for women’s MMA. Even with no martial arts experience, you can learn this sport. Your discipline and dedication are the most important things; your coach will handle everything else. They will ensure you understand the MMA fundamentals as a novice. And with effort and patience, a beginner with no experience can master the diverse techniques to become a proficient fighter.
3. YOU HAVE TO START YOUNG
Yes, there are advantages to starting young. But any woman can start at (almost) any age and become a skilled MMA fighter. Many successful female MMA fighters didn’t start competing until well into their 30s or even 40s! This list includes Daniel Cormier, Yoel Romero, and Randy Couture. Whether you want to compete, stay fit, or learn self-defence, there’s nothing wrong with stepping into the octagon at 30 or even older.
4. RULES ARE NON-EXISTENT
MMA is performed in a controlled setting. Both gym and competition environments follow strict rules and guidelines regarding athlete conduct. These rules are put in place to ensure safety and goodwill between fighters. For instance, some rules for women’s MMA include:
- No biting, spitting, or groin kicks
- No eye gouging of any kind
- No hair pulling
- No direct throat strikes
- No unsportsmanlike behavior that results in injury
- No kicking or knee striking to a grounded opponent
- No scratching
- No flesh twisting
- No swearing or vulgar language directed toward your opponent
- No attacking an opponent after the bell rings or while she is under the referee’s care
As you can see, there are many rules for mixed martial arts. So while women’s MMA can be aggressive, it is by no means an anything-goes sport.
DEBUNKING WOMEN’S MMA MYTHS
The myths surrounding women’s MMA will continue circulating. But the truth remains: this is a sport for women to learn, grow, and become better versions of themselves. And at Pallas Athena Women’s Fighting Championship (PAWFC), we want to help that evolution take place. We are Western Canada’s first all-women mixed martial arts fighting corporation. And if you think you have what it takes, contact us today to unlock your inner Goddess.