Blog Layout

The Best Gear for Practicing Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a physically demanding sport that requires not only skill and dedication but also the right equipment to train safely and effectively.


The importance of proper gear in MMA cannot be overstated. It protects you from injuries, enhances your performance, and ensures that you can train comfortably and efficiently. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned fighter, having the right gear is crucial. In this guide, we'll explore the best gear for practicing MMA, covering everything from gloves to training apparel.

MMA Gloves


Types of MMA Gloves


MMA gloves are one of the most critical pieces of equipment. They come in various types, each designed for specific purposes.


  1. Training Gloves: These are used for everyday training, including bag work and mitt work. They provide more padding to protect your hands during intense training sessions.
  2. Sparring Gloves: These gloves are slightly larger and offer extra padding to protect both you and your sparring partner.
  3. Competition Gloves: These are lighter and less padded than training gloves, designed for use in actual fights.


Features to Look For


When choosing MMA gloves, consider the following features:


  • Padding: Ensure there's adequate padding to protect your hands.
  • Fit: The gloves should fit snugly but not be too tight.
  • Wrist Support: Good gloves offer strong wrist support to prevent injuries.


Top Brands and Recommendations


Some of the best brands for MMA gloves include:


  • Hayabusa: Known for their durability and comfort.
  • Venum: Popular among professional fighters for their high quality.
  • Everlast: A trusted name in combat sports, offering a range of gloves suitable for different needs.


Mouthguards


Importance of Mouthguards in MMA


Mouthguards are essential for protecting your teeth, jaw, and overall oral health. A good mouthguard can prevent serious injuries during training and competition.


Custom vs. Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards


  • Custom Mouthguards: Made specifically for your teeth, offering the best fit and protection but at a higher cost.
  • Boil-and-Bite Mouthguards: More affordable and can be molded at home by boiling them and biting into them for a custom fit.


Best Mouthguards on the Market


Top mouthguards include:


  • Shock Doctor Gel Max: Known for its comfort and durability.
  • Venum Challenger: Offers excellent protection and a comfortable fit.
  • Impact Custom Mouthguards: These provide a custom fit for maximum protection.


Shin Guards


Different Types of Shin Guards


Shin guards protect your legs during kicks and sparring. There are two main types:


  • Striking Shin Guards: Thicker padding for maximum protection during heavy sparring.
  • Grappling Shin Guards: Thinner and more flexible, allowing for better movement during grappling.


How to Choose the Right Shin Guards


Consider the following when choosing shin guards:


  • Padding Thickness: More padding offers better protection but less mobility.
  • Fit: They should stay in place without shifting during training.
  • Material: Durable materials like synthetic leather or neoprene are ideal.


Recommended Shin Guards for MMA


Some top choices include:


  • Fairtex SP5: Known for their excellent protection and durability.
  • RDX Shin Guards: Offer a great balance of protection and mobility.
  • Venum Predator: Popular for their comfort and fit.


Headgear


Role of Headgear in MMA Training


Headgear is crucial for protecting your head during sparring sessions. It reduces the risk of cuts, bruises, and head injuries.


Types of Headgear


  • Full-Face Headgear: Provides maximum protection, covering the cheeks, chin, and forehead.
  • Open-Face Headgear: Offers better visibility but less protection.


Best Headgear Options


Top headgear choices include:


  • Winning FG-2900: Known for its comfort and protection.
  • Hayabusa T3: Offers a great balance of protection and visibility.
  • Ringside Competition Headgear: Popular among professional fighters for its durability.


Hand Wraps


Importance of Hand Wraps


Hand wraps protect your hands and wrists from injuries during training. They provide additional support and help secure your gloves.


How to Wrap Your Hands Properly


Wrapping your hands properly is essential. Here’s a quick guide:

  1. Start by wrapping around your wrist.
  2. Move up to cover the knuckles.
  3. Wrap between the fingers.
  4. Finish by securing the wrist and thumb.


Best Hand Wraps for MMA


Some of the best hand wraps include:


  • Sanabul Elastic Professional: Known for their comfort and durability.
  • Everlast Hand Wraps: A trusted choice for many fighters.
  • Meister MMA Hand Wraps: Offer excellent support and protection.


Rash Guards


Benefits of Wearing Rash Guards


Rash guards protect your skin from mat burns and infections. They also help regulate body temperature and wick away sweat.


Material and Fit Considerations


Look for rash guards made from durable, moisture-wicking materials. They should fit snugly but allow for full range of motion.


Top Rash Guards for MMA Practitioners


Popular rash guards include:


  • Hayabusa Metaru: Known for its durability and comfort.
  • Venum No-Gi: Offers a great fit and protection.
  • Tatami Fightwear: Trusted by many MMA practitioners.


MMA Shorts


Why MMA-Specific Shorts are Necessary


MMA shorts are designed to allow full range of motion and withstand the rigors of training and fighting.


Features of Good MMA Shorts


  • Durability: Strong seams and quality materials.
  • Flexibility: Stretch panels for unrestricted movement.
  • Fit: Secure fit without being too tight.


Best MMA Shorts Available


Top MMA shorts include:


  • Hayabusa Chikara: Known for their durability and comfort.
  • Venum Gladiator: Popular for their flexibility and fit.
  • RDX MMA Shorts: Offer great value and performance.


Groin Protectors


Necessity of Groin Protectors


Groin protectors are essential for protecting sensitive areas during training and competition.


Types of Groin Protectors


  • Compression Shorts with Cup: Offer good protection and comfort.
  • Traditional Groin Guards: Provide maximum protection but may be less comfortable.


Recommended Groin Protectors


Top choices include:


  • Diamond MMA: Known for their superior protection and comfort.
  • Shock Doctor Core: Offers a good balance of protection and comfort.
  • Venum Challenger: Popular for their fit and protection.


Training Pads


Types of Training Pads


Training pads are essential for practicing strikes. There are different types, including:


  • Focus Mitts: Used for practicing precision and speed.
  • Thai Pads: Used for practicing kicks and knees.
  • Kick Shields: Used for practicing powerful strikes.


Choosing the Right Training Pads


Consider the following when choosing training pads:


  • Durability: Look for pads made from quality materials.
  • Comfort: Ensure they are comfortable to hold and use.
  • Protection: Look for adequate padding to protect both the holder and the striker.


Top Training Pads for MMA


Top training pads include:


  • Fairtex Thai Pads: Known for their durability and protection.
  • Ringside Focus Mitts: Popular for their comfort and precision.
  • Revgear Kick Shields: Offer excellent protection and durability.


Heavy Bags


Benefits of Heavy Bag Training


Heavy bag training helps improve your power, endurance, and technique.


Types of Heavy Bags


  • Standard Heavy Bags: Ideal for all-around training.
  • Banana Bags: Longer bags suitable for practicing low kicks.
  • Aqua Bags: Filled with water, offering a different feel and impact.


Best Heavy Bags for MMA Training


Top heavy bags include:


  • Everlast Powercore: Known for their durability and performance.
  • Fairtex Banana Bag: Popular for practicing low kicks.
  • Aqua Training Bag: Offers a unique training experience with water filling.


Speed Bags


Importance of Speed Bag Training


Speed bag training improves your hand-eye coordination, speed, and rhythm.


How to Choose a Speed Bag


Consider the following when choosing a speed bag:


  • Size: Smaller bags are faster, while larger bags are slower but easier to hit.
  • Material: Durable materials like leather are ideal.
  • Swivel: A good swivel ensures smooth and consistent movement.


Recommended Speed Bags


Top speed bags include:


  • Ringside Apex: Known for their durability and performance.
  • Title Boxing Speed Bag: Popular for their quality and value.
  • Cleto Reyes Speed Bag: Trusted by many professional fighters.


Jump Ropes


Cardio and Coordination Benefits of Jump Ropes


Jump ropes are excellent for improving cardio, coordination, and footwork.


Features of Good Jump Ropes


  • Adjustability: Ensure the rope length can be adjusted.
  • Durability: Look for ropes made from strong materials.
  • Handles: Comfortable and non-slip handles are ideal.


Top Jump Ropes for MMA


Popular jump ropes include:


  • Crossrope Get Lean: Known for their durability and performance.
  • WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope: Offers great value and adjustability.
  • Rogue Fitness SR-1: Popular for their smooth and fast rotation.


Training Apparel


Importance of Proper Training Apparel


Wearing the right apparel is crucial for comfort, performance, and safety during training.


Recommendations for MMA Apparel


Look for apparel that is:


  • Moisture-Wicking: Keeps you dry and comfortable.
  • Flexible: Allows for full range of motion.
  • Durable: Can withstand the rigors of training.


Top recommendations include:


  • Hayabusa Compression Gear: Known for their durability and comfort.
  • Venum Fightwear: Popular for their fit and performance.
  • Under Armour Training Apparel: Trusted for their quality and comfort.


Final Thoughts


In MMA, having the right gear is not just about performance; it's about safety and comfort as well. From gloves and mouthguards to heavy bags and jump ropes, each piece of equipment plays a vital role in your training and development as a fighter. Invest in quality gear, take good care of it, and you'll be well on your way to reaching your MMA goals.


Interested in trying a martial arts class? Find an affiliated academy anywhere in the country by clicking here.

Have your own martial arts program? Get to know more about what we have to offer at 
Ground Standard Agency for helping martial arts businesses grow.

Email us at info@groundstandard.com, or call and text us at (732) 907-8920 today to learn how to start growing your own academy, school, dojo, or gym with us as well.

Share this article

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR DO-IT-YOURSELF AND FULL-SERVICE OPTIONS.

Learn more (GS Homepage)

March 24, 2025
Picture this—you’ve built a martial arts academy, poured your heart into creating an elite training environment, yet your revenue graph looks like a roller coaster. One month, you’re thriving; the next, you're scrambling for ways to keep the lights on. Sustainable revenue isn’t about luck; it’s about strategy. Let’s break down how to build a revenue model that keeps cash flowing smoothly. Constructing a Multi-Layered Revenue Fortress The days of relying on a single revenue stream are long gone. If memberships are your only source of income, your business stands on shaky ground. Think of your academy’s financial structure like a balanced martial arts stance—multiple income streams providing stability: Membership Tiers – Ditch the one-size-fits-all pricing. Offer a range of options: basic (limited sessions), standard (unlimited), and elite (personalized coaching + perks). Paid Trials Over Freebies – Free trials attract tire-kickers. Charge for an introductory package to ensure only serious students enroll. Private Coaching for Premium Clients – Students who crave one-on-one attention will pay top dollar for personalized instruction. Merchandise Sales – Branded apparel, gear, and training accessories not only boost revenue but also serve as free advertising. Seminars & Specialty Workshops – Host guest instructors or focus on niche topics like self-defense intensives for one-time profit boosts. Digital Revenue Streams – Offer exclusive online training, virtual coaching, or content subscriptions to expand beyond your physical location. Diversifying income isn’t just smart—it’s essential for long-term success. Pricing Alchemy: Striking the Right Balance Your pricing speaks volumes about your academy’s value. Price too low, and you’ll struggle to stay afloat. Set rates too high, and potential students may not even walk through the door. Tiered Memberships Provide Flexibility – Cater to different budgets and commitment levels with structured plans. Encourage Long-Term Commitment – Offer discounts for 6- and 12-month memberships to improve revenue predictability. Family Discounts Boost Retention – Incentivize entire families to train together and increase loyalty. Bundle for Bigger Profits – Pair memberships with private sessions or gear packages to increase spending per student. Turbocharge Your Lead Generation Growth starts with a steady stream of new students. That’s where Lead Generation by Ground Standard changes the game. Targeted Advertising – Facebook, Google, and Instagram ads pinpoint your ideal students. SEO Domination – Secure top spots for "Martial Arts Marketing Services" in local search results. Referral Programs That Work – Incentivize current students to bring in friends with exclusive perks. Automated Follow-Ups – Many leads require multiple touchpoints. Ground Standard’s automation keeps them engaged. Retention: The Key to Long-Term Profitability Signing students up is just the beginning—keeping them engaged ensures lasting revenue. Culture Over Contracts – Students don’t just train for skill; they stay for the community. Foster that family vibe. Celebrate Milestones – Progress tracking, promotions, and awards boost motivation. Make It Easy to Stay – Convenient scheduling, autopay options, and seamless booking enhance the student experience. Live Concierge Support – Ground Standard’s Live Concierge keeps students engaged with timely communication. Unlocking Hidden Revenue Avenues Looking beyond traditional memberships can take your earnings to the next level. Host & Monetize Events – Inter-academy tournaments, self-defense workshops, and competitions generate extra cash flow. Corporate Partnerships – Businesses will pay for self-defense and wellness programs. Seasonal Programs & Camps – After-school and summer programs create lucrative revenue spikes. Online Training Empire – Sell instructional videos or live-streamed sessions to a broader audience. Data-Driven Decisions for Smarter Growth Guesswork won’t pay the bills—data will. Smart business owners track key performance indicators (KPIs): Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) – Understand what it costs to gain each new student. Churn Rate – Identify why students leave and improve retention strategies. Lifetime Value (LTV) – Measure how much each student contributes over time. Conversion Rate – Track how many leads become paying members. Your numbers tell a story. Read it well. Automate, Delegate, Dominate You can’t grow if you’re drowning in daily tasks. Automation and delegation free up time for strategy and expansion. CRM & Email Automation – Ground Standard’s tools nurture leads and manage communication effortlessly. Build a Strong Team – Stop running everything yourself. Train staff to handle sessions while you focus on growth. Outsource Marketing – Let professionals handle social media, ads, and SEO while you master your business. The Final Word Martial arts success isn’t just about skill—it’s about sustainability. A strong revenue model requires precision, strategy, and the right tools. With Ground Standard’s Live Concierge and Lead Generation , your academy can evolve into a thriving business. The fight for financial stability is won with strategy. Train hard. Market smarter. Scale relentlessly. The Untapped Power of a Mission Statement in Martial Arts Success Why do some academies thrive while others struggle? The secret isn’t just top-tier training—it’s a crystal-clear mission statement . A mission statement isn’t corporate fluff. It’s the backbone of your brand, the foundation of your marketing strategy, and the glue that unites students and instructors. It defines why you exist, who you serve, and what makes you different. Crafting a Mission That Sticks Imagine two academies side by side: One says, "We teach martial arts." The other declares, "We empower individuals with confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills through a dynamic martial arts experience." Which one resonates more? A compelling mission statement: Clarifies Your Purpose – Defines your academy’s deeper mission beyond just teaching skills. Distinguishes Your Brand – Makes you stand out in a crowded market. Attracts & Retains Students – Gives people a reason to join—and stay. Ground Standard’s Lead Generation service helps academies refine and amplify their unique voice. If your academy lacks a clear mission, you’re leaving growth on the table. Making Your Mission Work for Marketing Your mission isn’t just an internal statement—it’s a marketing catalyst . Every ad, email, and post should reflect it. Social Media Strategy – Share stories of student transformation, not just flashy moves. Website Optimization – Feature your mission front and center for SEO and instant connection. Email & Ads – Focus on transformation, not just promotions. Live Concierge by Ground Standard ensures mission-driven messaging remains consistent—turning inquiries into enrollments. Transforming Your Academy Through Purpose A strong mission creates organic growth.  The Master Plan: Refine Your Mission Statement – Make it bold, clear, and specific. Integrate It Into Marketing – Reflect it in social media, ads, and outreach. Ensure Staff Alignment – Train your team to embody and communicate your mission. Leverage Expert Help – Use Ground Standard’s Lead Generation and Live Concierge to maximize impact. A mission statement isn’t just a tagline—it’s the heartbeat of a thriving academy. It’s the force that attracts new students, builds loyalty, and sets you apart. Ready to take your academy to the next level? Ground Standard’s Martial Arts Marketing Services will amplify your mission and fuel your success.
The Benefits of Offering Corporate Martial Arts Workshops
By Bobby Freda October 23, 2024
Corporate wellness programs have evolved significantly in recent years, with companies exploring innovative ways to keep their employees healthy, motivated, and engaged. One increasingly popular option is corporate martial arts workshops. These workshops combine physical fitness, mental discipline, and personal development, offering a unique way to boost employee well-being and foster a positive workplace culture. In this article, we’ll explore the multifaceted benefits of incorporating martial arts into corporate wellness programs.
By Bobby Freda October 23, 2024
Martial arts studios are more than just training spaces—they’re thriving communities where students grow, learn, and improve both physically and mentally. Offering memberships instead of traditional pay-per-class models allows martial arts studios to foster long-term relationships with their students. But to truly maximize value for both the studio and the students, it's crucial to craft an ultimate martial arts membership experience.
How to Set Up a Loyalty Program for Martial Arts Students
By Bobby Freda October 23, 2024
Loyalty programs can significantly boost student retention and engagement in martial arts schools. When designed effectively, these programs not only reward students for their dedication but also encourage them to keep coming back, bring in new students, and stay connected with the martial arts community.
Best Practices for Managing Martial Arts Gym Finances
By Bobby Freda October 22, 2024
Managing the finances of a martial arts gym is crucial for maintaining a thriving, successful business. With high-quality instruction at the core of your operations, proper financial oversight ensures that you can continue to offer valuable services while growing the gym sustainably. This article explores the best practices that every martial arts gym owner should follow to keep their gym financially healthy, from budgeting to growth strategies.
How to Attract More Martial Arts Students with Social Proof
By Bobby Freda October 22, 2024
The process of onboarding new martial arts students is critical for ensuring that beginners feel welcome, supported, and ready to embark on their martial arts journey. A smooth onboarding process not only boosts student retention but also fosters long-term engagement, allowing students to fully immerse themselves in the discipline. This comprehensive guide will outline the key elements of an effective onboarding process in martial arts, offering actionable strategies for schools and instructors.
Effective Onboarding Process for New Martial Arts Students
By Bobby Freda October 22, 2024
The process of onboarding new martial arts students is critical for ensuring that beginners feel welcome, supported, and ready to embark on their martial arts journey. A smooth onboarding process not only boosts student retention but also fosters long-term engagement, allowing students to fully immerse themselves in the discipline. This comprehensive guide will outline the key elements of an effective onboarding process in martial arts, offering actionable strategies for schools and instructors.
How to Create a Winning Culture in Your Martial Arts School
By Bobby Freda October 22, 2024
A martial arts school is more than just a place where students learn physical techniques; it’s a community where values, respect, and personal growth are fostered. Creating a winning culture in your martial arts school is crucial for the long-term success of your students and your school itself. A well-defined culture builds strong bonds, promotes a healthy learning environment, and ensures that every individual who steps into your school leaves not just stronger but also more confident, respectful, and disciplined. This article will guide you through the steps needed to create and maintain a winning culture in your martial arts school.
Top 5 Tools Every Martial Arts School Needs for Success
By Bobby Freda October 22, 2024
Running a martial arts school requires more than just mastery of techniques and dedication. The tools a school uses can have a significant impact on both the students' learning experience and the overall success of the school. With the right combination of tools, martial arts instructors can streamline operations, enhance student development, and ensure long-term growth. In this article, we'll dive into the top five essential tools every martial arts school needs for success.
How to Create a Monthly Newsletter for Martial Arts Students
By Bobby Freda October 22, 2024
Creating a monthly newsletter for martial arts students is an excellent way to maintain strong communication within your dojo, provide valuable information, and foster a sense of community. This guide will take you through each step of the process, ensuring your newsletter is engaging, informative, and a valuable resource for your students.
Show More
Share by: