Most Common Sparring Gear

What is the most common sparring gear? Is it foam sparring gear or the vinyl? Or yet is it cloth gear?

Well the most common type of sparring gear used in traditional karate styles would happen to be the foam. Now that does not mean vinyl or cloth are less in protection, however most modern studios will use the foam because it is easier to care for.

All you have to do with the foam gear is wipe it down with a damp cloth after sparring so that it stays clean. With the vinyl you may have to actually dunk it in water and then let it hang dry. The same goes with the cloth gear - however cloth gear is cheaper to buy. Most sparring gear bought online will be from a company like this http://www.tigerstrike.com/equipment/sparring-gear/ and you can usually get a deal if you buy 3 or more pieces at one time.

Here is a picture of a full set of foam sparring gear with a chest guard:

The Cloth gear will look like this:

Vinyl Sparring Gear looks like this:

For more information about foam sparring gear. It is a quick video!

Getting Flexible - What Do MMA Fighters Do?

So what stretches do MMA and UFC fighters do to prepare for their matches? To compete at such a high level I would imagine you would have to be flexible. Since the more flexible you are the less injuries you have when training and the quicker and more agile you will be.

Here is what one UFC fighter does:

Traditionally many martial arts fighters and competitors would use a stretching machine such as this one http://www.bestlegstretchers.com/shop-gear/metal-leg-stretcher/ or they may use other stretching machines such as these.

However the most important thing is that you warm up and then do some sort of stretching. You want to be as limber as you can possibly be. That does not mean you need to be able to do the splits but be able to be flexible in all areas.

MMA Women Fighter Leslie Smith - Her Journey

We have to respect the skills of female MMA fighters. Their journey is not an easy one. This particular video is about Leslie Smith and her journey in that world. It even shows her training in Thailand. I hope you enjoy this video of a really good fighter!

Martial Arts Adventure and Training in China

Looking to head on over into China to do some Kung Fu training? Well this short video can help you learn more of what you can do when you head on over there. It is recommended that you know someone or you find a travel agent to help you. You will want to be introduced to the head instructor before you just show up at their door hoping to train. Because if you do not you may just have the door shut in your face!

Traveling To Thailand To Train In MuayThai With Royce Gracie

This is a great interview with the great Royce Gracie (UFC Champion). They are on location in Thailand. I think you will enjoy this video. It is a bit long at 9 minutes but a really good interview!

My First Post - What This Blog is About

I plan on using this blog to post tips on training in the martial arts while traveling. There are so many places to go and train. whether it be across the States or in another country. I will offer you tips on how to do just that and have fun at the same time.