Tuesday, 21 August 2012

What are the Best MMA Sparring Gloves?

By John MacKintosh


Mixed Martial Arts, or MMA, is a full contact sport that involves both striking and grappling an opponent while standing or on the ground. It was originally intended as a contest between different martial arts to see which would be the most effective in an unarmed combat situation. Today the sport is popular around the world, and it is not uncommon to see participants using MMA sparring gloves for practice.

MMA competitions were introduced into the United States in 1993 with the first Ultimate Fighting Championship. It gained exposure and popularity when a Jiu Jitsu fighter named Royce Gracie won the first tournament. The interest in martial arts saw a distinct increase. Some also say that the father of MMA is none other than Bruce Lee, who believed that the best fighter was one who could adapt to any style.

Initially it was just professional fighters who were involved with MMA, but due to growing popularity it has become more widely taught. It has become more accessible to the public at large, whatever their ages. People state that this form of training is safe for everyone.

During your training at some point you are going to become involved with sparring, and to do that properly you are going to need sparring gloves. It seems that they come in so many different styles and weights, so it is often difficult to know which is right for you. At the end of the day they are there to provide your partner, and you, with protection against injury.

One option, as you seek the right gloves, is to notice what others are wearing at your MMA classes. Don't be embarrassed to ask their advice, find out why they prefer that glove compared to a different make or style. Maybe ask if they have ever had any problems with them, or if they would have preferred to have bought another brand.

You need to make sure that they fit closely in all of the right places, and that they feel secure. There is no point having gloves if you feel that they are going fall off. A lot of people order from mail order, which is fine if they know what they want and are familiar with the product. The best bit of advice is to go to a sports store which carries a wide range of MMA equipment.

Just like a new pair of boots, to begin with, your new MMA sparring gloves are going to feel very stiff, and so are going to need breaking in. It will probably be most noticeable in the finger and thumb loop areas. Many will try and tell you various short cuts about how to break them in, but the best way is through use.




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