In part two of Mike’s interview with Craig Marker at Breaking Muscle, Mike shares that designing fighter’s training based on the length of rounds is important, but it is not the only way to train.
“In fact, if we can build the other energy systems, we will make the conditions of the fight seem even easier.”
Conditioning for Fighting: Aerobic Fitness
Mike talks about the phased approach he takes with fighters at Skill of Strength and MMA Fight Prep.
In phase one, Mike focuses his fighters training around three activities.
- Strength training
- Short sprints followed by rest
- Aerobic conditioning
Phase one is where most people should train most of the time. Unless your sport or job demands it, it is probably best to train phase one templates most of the time.
Phase two is only for pre-competition and competition time periods. In this phase, he’ll have fighters work the glycolytic system and push its capacity. One thing to beware of in this phase is not to add too much high intensity work too early or fighters will be exhausted all of the time and they’ll get burnt out.
Mike goes on to explain how to combine conditioning with skill development.
By following the protocols discussed in greater detail in the article, fighters can go from a “first round hero” with nothing left in the tank to the person with your hand in the air at the end of a long bout.
Did you miss part 1?
Conditioning for Fighting: Energy Systems 101
