Martial arts are very popular among many athletes. There are different disciplines, each with its own set of rules. The following guide deals with boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA) and explains how these two sports differ. Because besides some similarities, there are also many differences between them.
First of all, it should be said that MMA combines many different martial arts. Therefore, elements from boxing can also be found. Nevertheless, the two sports differ in many points. These will now be examined in more detail.
DIFFERENT GLOVES
In boxing, the athletes wear significantly larger gloves. This allows them to lay out the stance so that they hide behind them, so to speak. In MMA this is not possible. Therefore, a different stance must be taken. In boxing, the attacks always come from the hands only. Therefore, the athletes must also choose the posture only in such a way that they defend in the best possible way.
In MMA, on the other hand, the legs can also be used for the attack. In addition, takedowns are also allowed. The fighters must take all this into account and position themselves in such a way that they offer the opponent as small an attack surface as possible. For this reason, it is very rare to see an MMA fighter who has his guard up throughout. In addition, the legs also stand differently for boxers. Because of the takedowns and the kicks, MMA fighters can’t be that light on their feet. Nevertheless, they have an advantage if they have the best possible boxing skills, even if they actually come more from other sports. In mixed martial arts are mostly successful those who are very well-rounded. This is because the opponent cannot adjust so well to what is coming at him.
DIFFERENT PUNCHES
As already mentioned, MMA combines several sports. Thus, many different punches and kicks are also used. Many athletes originally come from Taekwondo, Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing or even Muay Thai. But also wrestlers and boxers can compete with other fighters in the Octagon.
FIGHTING RULES
Another big difference between boxing and MMA are the rules. In the latter, significantly more things are allowed. For example, attacks on the genital area or biting the opponent are prohibited. In boxing, on the other hand, there are significantly more rules. For example, kicking is not allowed and takedowns are interrupted. Both can even result in a point deduction. Only the hands may be used to attack.
Both sports are exciting in their own way. Nevertheless, MMA is always very intense, while boxing is often tactical. For example, if one of the fighters repeatedly dodges the punches or kicks of the opponent, the latter may try to take him to the ground and apply a hold. For this reason, many fans find MMA fights a little more interesting.
Essential difference : MMA mostly in the Octagon. Boxing always in the boxing ring. The latter is square, while the Octagon is hexagonal.
CONCLUSION
Boxing and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) are two very popular combat sports, which are similar in some respects and very different in others. If you ask yourself, which art of sports is better, there is no answer to this question. It only depends on you which techniques and rules you like more. The professional fighter can learn the both techniques to be more experienced. However, it is important to focus on one of them.
And if you are not going to be a professional fighter, both activities would be beneficial for you as full-body workouts that will improve every muscle group in your body.