The reporting of a multifaceted mixed martial arts strength and conditioning program

With the recent increase in popularity of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), it is imperative to assess the effectiveness of strength and conditioning (S and C) modalities while encouraging other S and C professionals to do so as well. There is minimal literature evaluating the role of S and C, and even less literature evaluating the role of the traditional mixed martial art, Tai Chi (TC) as it applies to MMA. Twelve professional MMA athletes were tested on balance, flexibility, and power following a 6-wk S and C program that included TC in the form of a cool-down. The data suggested improvements (P≤0.05) in both balance (Balance Error Scoring System, BESS) and flexibility (sit and reach) following the 6-wk block of MMA S and C in adjunct with TC.