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Step 1
Survey the base forms. Mixed martial arts has a heavy basis in a few different martial arts techniques. Brazilian jiu-jitsu, muay thai, kickboxing and wrestling all contribute heavily to mixed martial arts training. Survey the range of combat sports involved so you can understand the evolution of techniques and training methods.
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Step 2
Start intensive strength training. A huge part of the mixed martial artist's training day is comprised of high intensity strength training. To get to a minimal level of fitness for the sport, you need to start some form of high intensity training. Most mixed martial artists use a combination of high intensity interval training (HIIT) and some kind of functional weight or resistance training to get explosive strength.
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Step 3
Find a mixed martial arts school. Today, there are lots of schools devoted to teaching mixed martial arts. Many boxing clubs, for instance, offer mixed martial arts training. It's important to train at a school or club not just for the instruction but also to get in the ring with other developing fighters.
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Step 4
Watch the masters. Start with the early days of mixed martial arts—the first years of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. It's also important to watch today's mixed martial arts masters like Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz to see how they incorporate the techniques of Brazilian jiu-jitsu and kickboxing into their fighting. Watch as many fights as you can, keeping your training and your own technique in mind.
