With something that used to be as male-dominated as the sport of MMA, you may question whether taking up this sport is the right choice for you.
After all, most YouTube videos or podcasts recorded on this subject are geared toward men. We can either see this as a limiting factor or choose to see it as another reason to join the ranks of women in the MMA industry. Regardless of experience, you will contribute to an empowered movement to bring women fighters to the forefront of MMA.
So continue reading if you find yourself asking this question.
CAN I START WOMEN’S MMA WITHOUT EXPERIENCE?
Yes, you absolutely can! It’s impossible to gain experience unless you start.
Different gyms and dojos will have instructors with varying levels of skill and proficiency. But as a beginner, you’ll be able to learn something from everyone — regardless of skill level.
The instructors will ask what your goals and objectives are (stay fit, learn self-defence, compete in a tournament, or just have the energy to keep up with the little ones at home), and then they will help you reach those goals by teaching you the basics of MMA.
They will pin you against classmates who are at or around your level of ability. And if you do happen to go against someone who is a much higher rank than you, you can rest easy knowing they’ll be merciful.
STARTING YOUR JOURNEY INTO WOMEN’S MIXED MARTIAL ARTS FIGHTING
Every sport has novices who are just getting started and learning the ropes. MMA is no different. This sport is for those with diverse goals and skill sets.
Some just want to get in shape, others want to learn how to defend themselves, as well as people who are world champions of the sport, competing at the highest level — and everything in between.
So yes, MMA is an excellent choice for beginners! If you lack cardio, strength, power, etc, don’t worry about it. All of those attributes will come later as you continue to train. The only things required when starting are a good attitude and a commitment to improve.
IDEAL AGE TO START MMA AS A WOMAN
Joining women’s MMA is best suited for any age, whether you’re six or sixty!
Some people take on the sport much later in life; some children start as early as five or six at their parent’s request, and even teenagers often take up MMA as a hobby or outlet. There are a near-infinite amount of examples of people starting at all ages. It’s common to see people take up Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at 40 and obtain their black belt by 50 or 55. It’s also becoming an everyday occurrence in the MMA world to see children competing in tournaments.
MMA IS AN INVESTMENT IN YOURSELF
MMA is more than just learning how to fight. Mixed Martial Arts — in its essence — can be broken down to living a good life. It teaches you to focus, grounds you with self-discipline, it strengthens your confidence and resolve and transforms you into a goal-oriented person with aims, objectives, and purpose.
One of the main advantages of MMA is the blend of multiple martial arts within the sport. The most prominent ones you will be learning from are:
Muay Thai
Wrestling
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Boxing
Judo
THE RISKS AND CHALLENGES OF TRAINING MMA INDEPENDENTLY
Training in women’s MMA certainly involves risks, as it is a combat sport where drilling techniques and sparring are integral parts. While injuries like aches, pains, and occasionally more severe injuries can occur, they are not everyday events, especially for those not competing professionally. The key is to train smartly, use the right gear, and apply techniques correctly under guidance.
Attempting to learn MMA independently is not recommended due to the sport’s complexity and the need for expert guidance. Although resources like books, videos, and podcasts can provide theoretical knowledge, they must retain the invaluable feedback and hands-on experience gained under the supervision of an experienced coach. Practical application with a sparring partner is essential for understanding and integrating techniques effectively. Training alone lacks the dynamic of real-life resistance and interaction, which are critical for genuine progress and improvement in women’s MMA.
READY TO GET STARTED?
In closing, MMA is for anyone who wants to improve while learning how to fight. You don’t need experience to get started; you only need a strong passion for it and a willingness to learn.
At Pallas Athena (PAWFC), we go through the physical training, nutrition and mental preparation of women’s MMA. PAWFC is not just fostering a new generation of female MMA champions but is also championing the holistic well-being of every woman who steps into our gym.
Ready to join our community? Refer to our Fighter Registration here.