Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a popular sport requiring a combination of physical, technical, tactical, and psychological skills. This study examines an integral training approach designed to enhance both general physical preparation (GPP) and special physical preparation (SPP) for MMA fighters. The purpose of the study was to demonstrate the improvement in MMA fighters' fitness through integrated training. 20 elite MMA fighters were studied. The study lasted 12 weeks with general (GPP) and specific physical preparation (SPP) training interventions. The variables of strength, aerobic power, VO2max, speed, agility and mental toughness were examined at the beginning, at week 6 and at the end (at week 12) of training. Results demonstrated significant improvements across multiple performance domains, strength metrics (squat +12.8%, bench press +10.3%, deadlift +13.5%), anaerobic power (+15.2% peak output, -9.7% fatigue index), endurance (+11.6% VO2max), speed and agility (+7.4% agility, +5.9% sprint performance), technical execution (striking accuracy +17.2%, takedown success rate +14.6%), and psychological attributes (mental toughness +16.8%, cognitive reaction time +9.2%). These findings highlight the effectiveness of an integrated training model in optimizing physical performance, technical proficiency, and mental resilience. The study underscores the necessity of a holistic, evidence-based training approach for sustained athletic development and competitive excellence in MMA. The statistically significant improvements across multiple performance metrics suggest that a well-structured combination of general physical preparation (GPP) and special physical preparation (SPP) contributes to the holistic development of MMA athletes.
Gaziyev et al. (Wed,) studied this question.