I spent over 2 years at the same MMA gym that I started at. This school transitioned me from an out of shape, normal kid into a fighter. This school laid the foundation for my MMA training. It’s been 6 months but I’ve switched MMA schools to begin a new chapter in MMA.
Why did I switch MMA schools?
- I barely saw the main instructor
- No advanced MMA classes
- No sense of “team”
- No mentoring
I had a sour experience after my first fight. I had two training partners that helped me prepare for my first fight, but I feel like an instructor should of been there for me everyday. So I made the switch to a new gym. I see the main instructor everyday, learning many new things and improving every time I train. If you are no longer progressing with your skill, it’s time to move on.
February 14th, 2010 at 7:53 pm
The sense of “team” is probably the most important. You need to feel like it’s a family day in and day out. If not, you won’t live up to your potential.
February 25th, 2010 at 11:30 am
Smart move Jimmy. I think if a gym plans on having students compete, they should have a fight team above and beyond the regular student classes.
Good look with your new gym and training for your next competition. Looking forward to hearing more about it.
July 10th, 2010 at 12:18 am
Good post.
I agree with the other two comments. Your school needs to be a family and have that sense of brotherhood. Especially if their are members who compete. There needs to be classes outside of regular classes dedicated to those who want to fight. It is very different in general training for health and self defense as it is to training for a specific opponent and for a goal.
Also there are a lot of nerves that need to be overcome when you step into the ring or cage and fighting in front of a crowd. The psychological development needs to be addressed also, not just techniques.
Your instructor or coach needs to pay particular attention to your need s and if your not getting them from your current school…change schools.
It may be good when you first start if your new to give you the foundation but once you get to a certain point you will now if your school is not providing you with that ‘next level’.
Your instructor should understand if you decide to leave and that should give them an indication that they are not providing enough growth within their classes also.