MMA FAQ

[coach hale]

How do you periodize your strength training during camp? I assume you are referring to the pre-fight period. 6-8 weeks- Really start to pick up tempo sparring and 1x day week hard sparring 3-4 weeks- reductions in supplementary endurance work (depends on athlete in some cases elimination). At this point the sparring and SPP work is enough work capacity training. Reduce volume of strength training. 1 week before fight- tempo sparring very minimal strength training 1-2 days (strength speed or speed strength). Begin to focus on strategy (various options).

There is a huge variance in the modes of mental and physical training I use the last week before a fight. Some fighters need to stay active on a daily basis while some do better discontinuing activity a few days before the fight. The last week prep also depends on the athlete’s weight. If the athlete needs to shed pounds to make weight the volume of activity may increase significantly when comparing to previous weeks.

thanks,
Coach Hale
www.maxcondition.com

[Irishdazza]

How person dependent is this? Can the variation be large or are people at the top of their games closer than the general population in their timing of the back off?

[Jamesbd]

If doctoring a bad leg 3 weeks out what is a good aerobic building workout that wont make your arms jelly?