MMA vs Gym: Which Is Better for Getting Fit?

Why Is MMA Good for Fitness?

MMA is a full-body activity that can improve your cardiovascular fitness, strength, coordination, balance and mobility.

A typical MMA class can involve:

Pad and striking work

Footwork and movement

Grappling and wrestling

Bodyweight exercises

Fitness and conditioning drills

Core training

Because you’re constantly moving and learning new techniques, MMA can be an enjoyable way to exercise without feeling like you’re simply repeating the same workout.

MMA Can Keep You Motivated

One of the biggest challenges with exercise is staying motivated.

While going to the gym can be an excellent way to train, some people find traditional workouts repetitive and boring. MMA provides variety by combining fitness with learning new skills and working with training partners.

Every class gives you something new to work towards, helping make exercise something you look forward to and making the time fly by.

MMA vs Gym: Why Choose MMA Defence?

At MMA Defence, you don’t have to choose between a gym-style workout and martial arts — our training combines both.

Our classes incorporate fitness, strength and conditioning alongside striking, grappling and self-defence. This means you can work on your overall fitness while learning practical martial arts skills at the same time.

Rather than spending your workout simply lifting weights or using machines, you can get a varied full-body workout while developing skills, confidence and fitness together.

It’s the benefits of a fitness-focused workout combined with the skills and excitement of MMA — all in one place.

Try MMA for Yourself

You don’t need to be extremely fit or experienced to start MMA. Beginners can gradually build their fitness and skills as they train.

At MMA Defence, we welcome people of different ages and abilities and help them work towards becoming fitter, stronger and more confident.

Ready to give MMA a try? Book your free two-week trial and see what MMA Defence can offer you.

Testimonials

My children (7 and 6) absolutely love attending MMA Defence (Little Lions). The sessions are well structured with excellent instructors that have positive influence on the children’s progression. The ethos is clear; the sessions objectives are clear on building children’s confidence emotionally together with the physical aspect of defending oneself. In addition, the sessions continue to build on maintaining self discipline and promoting respect for all.

SB

You all should pat yourselves on the back for continuing such a great standard of instruction through what is proving to be a difficult time for all – you have been our stability through the weeks and months. Thanks for all you do, it is much appreciated.

JH

You’re all doing a great job. I try to spread the word near and far for you.

MM

My 6 year old joined in about September he absolutely loves it, it has really brought out his confidence. The instructors are amazing too.

JS

MMA Defence classes are absolutely fantastic. The team are friendly, accommodating and do an amazing job. Great atmosphere, good syllabus structure and they offer grading to encourage progression and self positivity.

SA

The classes are really good. The team who take the classes make you feel welcome.

From 6 to 60 everyone is welcome and I’ve learned so much the past few months and feel so much better in myself. To be honest I’m sorry I didn’t do something like this 20 or so years ago. Best thing I’ve ever done for myself and feel like I’m learning as well as achieving something.

RP

If you train under the instructors here, then you will learn. I guarantee that you’ll leave each session with a new and effective skill that will help you in later life. The instructors are excellent, as they know what they’re talking about and they work with you every step of the way. I couldn’t be happier to train under them at this MMA school

FM

From our first enquiry regarding joining the MMA classes, we were made to feel valued and welcome. They took time to phone me and talk through the programme and what was on offer.

My 8 year old son and I attended our first session and were welcomed and looked after so well. We love the classes and the friendly staff and structured programme. Definitely happy to recommend.

TJ

The MMA Defence team is like a big family; they’re always welcoming, cheerful and encouraging. I attend classes with my two daughters aged 10 and 7. We are constantly pushing ourselves and developing in fitness and confidence. We always leave classes feeling so pumped and proud of ourselves.

ES

We thoroughly enjoy our time at MMA Defence. The team of instructors are first rate. They manage to make every session enjoyable but also individually challenging, working towards your own limits. There’s a broad age range of members who are catered for professionally but in a fun way. We would recommend joining us, no matter your age or fitness level.

MP

Exactly how I wanted it to be.

First session and straight into learning.

AP

The club is very friendly and welcoming which means a lot if you are coming in as a beginner in MMA or any type of fitness training. The instructors are always on hand to help and allow you to go at your own pace. It’s a fantastic mix of training and skills that makes it fun and exciting to progress in and keep you motivated. I would recommend anyone to give it a go!

SA

The club is ideal for all ages, very welcoming, without judgement over abilities or fitness.

The instructors are all about encouraging, not shouting at or telling students off. You come away from the classes on a high and knackered, it’s exercising in an enjoyable and fun way.

As a 52 year old unfit parent, I highly recommend these classes.