Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Buffalo

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Buffalo is just one of many martial arts forms available to area residents, so what makes BJJ stand out from the rest? No matter what your strategy is for training—becoming an ultimate fighter, looking to get in shape or just out to meet some new friends—Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has distinct advantages over other martial arts forms.

While other martial arts draw specific focus to certain fighting strategies, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the only style that incorporates all areas of fighting, eliminating the need for cross training. Some forms of martial arts focus on striking techniques, while others focus on grappling, some, fighting while standing, others, competing on the ground. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu differs as it specializes in both striking and grappling techniques.

Exceptional focus and skill is needed to master the techniques presented through BJJ, because this form of martial arts isn’t purely physical, just as important is an opponents’ mental strategy. Staying ahead of your opponent both mentally and physically is what ultimately wins matches.

Mental Strategies are Just as Important

Unlike other fighting forms, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Buffalo isn’t about the quick win—many compare this martial art to the game of chess. For every attack there is a counter attack, for every move, a counter move. Opponents must constantly analyze the situation in order to adjust accordingly.

BJJ isn’t simply about winning, it’s about ‘how’ you are going to win. This martial art is as much mental as it is physical and requires focus and strategy. A lot of information is processed in a short period of time and strategy for each eventuality needs to be mastered. Matches can evolve quickly and even the smallest moves can make a big difference. For many, it is easy to get caught up in the moment, but this is where many opponents fail. Remaining calm and focused, no matter what is happening in the match, will increase your chances for success.

If you are interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training in Buffalo, consider WNY Mixed Martial Arts and Fitness. WNY MMA is the premier BJJ training facility in Western New York. Visit www.wnymma.com for more information or to get started with a free trial today.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Mixed Martial Arts Buffalo

Mixed martial arts, also known as MMA, is a full contact combat sport that incorporates a mixture of martial arts traditions and allows for a wide variety of fighting techniques and skills to be used in competition.

The origins of mixed martial arts can be traced back to mixed style competitions that took place in Japan, Europe and the Pacific Rim during the early 1900s. The games were organized with the intention of determining the most effective form of martial arts for real, unarmed combat. With minimal rules for safety, combatants were matched against one another, each using skills from their specific disciplines.

Modern day competitions for MMA began in 1993 with the introduction of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). An increase in rules and regulations provided added safety for competitors and allowed for a wider acceptance of MMA as a mainstream sport.

MMA Techniques

There are two general categories for techniques utilized in mixed martial arts competitions:

Striking techniques – which include kicks, punches and knees

Grappling techniques – which include submission holds, pinning holds, clinch holds, throws, sweeps and takedowns

While the legality of some techniques may vary depending on specific competitions (these can include head butts, elbow strikes and spinal locks) there is a near universal ban on several other techniques including strikes to the groin, fish-hooking, eye-gouging, biting and small joint manipulation. Finding a reputable mixed martial arts training facility in Buffalo will help you to learn proper style and technique.

The practice and study of mixed martial arts can take years to perfect. In order to effectively counter an opponents strengths and remain effective in all phases of combat, mixed martial artists must cross-train diligently in a variety of martial arts styles.

For example, a stand-up fighter will find it difficult to adequately use their skills against a submission artist who has significant training in takedowns. Because of this, the study of a variety of traditional disciplines remains the most popular way for a fighter to improve all aspects of their game.

Ready to get started with mixed martial arts in Buffalo? WNY Mixed Martial Arts and Fitness is the area’s largest and most reputable MMA training center. Contact www.wnymma.com today for more information or to get started.

Boxing Western New York

Every legendary boxer had to start somewhere, so why not get your start with boxing in Western New York. Not only can boxing classes teach you what you need to learn, but they can also teach you how to think about what you are learning. There are both mental and physical aspects of boxing that need to be mastered in order to succeed—a positive environment and a strong community of like-minded individuals can help you to achieve your goals and get you where you need to be.

The sport of boxing is based on two distinct techniques: punching and footwork.

Basic Punches

There are four basic punches in boxing: the jab, the straight, the hook and the uppercut. When learning punches, you need to learn all that goes into them. Boxing punches aren’t just arm movements, a punch starts in the balls of your feet, moves up through your legs and hips through your torso to your shoulders, arms, and finally your fist.

It can sound complicated, but it’s all about putting the pieces together. If you leave any pieces out, you won’t throw an effective punch, which means you aren’t going to knock anyone down.

Basic Footwork

When it comes to footwork, boxers move in four directions: forwards, backwards, and side to side, which also includes circling. One of the keys to proper footwork is good balance. Good balance provides a stable platform for throwing punches. Staying on the balls of your feet and never getting flat-footed will allow for quicker action, and more importantly, reaction.

You’ll quickly learn that boxers never stand still they are constantly in motion. When a boxer isn’t in motion, it takes time for them to get in motion, time that take away from both action and reaction time. Learning to bounce back and forth in the long rhythm and bob and weave from sided to side for the short motion will enhance your movement and allow for better punching.

Learning these basic boxing skills will eventually allow you to put punches and footwork together to create combinations. Building up your stamina will allow you to start with short rounds and eventually take part in longer rounds, all while improving your skill and technique.

Ready to get started with boxing in Western New York? WNY Mixed Martial Arts and Fitness is the area’s largest and most reputable boxing center. Contact www.wnymma.com today for additional information or to get started.Link

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Kids Martial Arts in Western New York

Whether you have experience with martial arts yourself or have no knowledge of the sport whatsoever, be assured that kids martial arts in Western New York is one of the best experiences you can give your child. Not only will it dramatically increase the fitness levels of your child, but it also enables them to develop their mental concentration, giving them a clearer mind. In addition, and most importantly, rather than looking for fights, martial arts teach students how to avoid conflict.

Why is Martial Arts good for kids?

Anything that gets kids off of the couch is a step in the right direction, but martial arts have a huge range of benefits for kids, both mental and physical. When it comes to the mind, discipline is one of the best benefits. Giving children the ability to be disciplined in martial arts will translate into many other areas of their life as well. Focus is another benefit. Children that can focus on tasks and stay calm in stressful situations will often lead happier, healthier lives. Teaching children discipline and giving them a positive outlook on life will greatly influence their dedication to achieving goals—both in class and throughout life in general.

The physical benefits of martial arts for children are also numerous. Excellent flexibility and strength, as well as an improved cardiovascular system are all things that can put your child in a league above their peers. In addition, the techniques learned through martial arts will provide your child with the ability to defend themselves should the need arise.

Which form of Martial Arts is best for children?

It can be difficult to determine which form of martial arts is best for your child, which is why at WNY Mixed Martial Arts & Fitness, we offer kids martial arts classes in Western New York that touch upon a variety of martial arts forms. Certain martial arts styles, such as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, involve moves that require perfect technique, while others, like Taekwondo and kickboxing, require extreme flexibility. By incorporating a variety of forms in our classes, your child will learn discipline through technique as well as increase strength and flexibility.

To learn more about our Kids martial arts classes in Western New York, visit www.wnymma.com.

Cardio Kickboxing in Buffalo

Cardio Kickboxing—a combination of aerobics, boxing, and martial arts—is one of the most popular fitness trends to hit Buffalo and Western New York. This intense, total body workout can improve strength, flexibility, coordination and balance while providing an aerobic fitness regimen that is both fun and challenging.

Cardio Kickboxing classes are a great alternative for those individuals who are bored with weight-room exercises and cardio activities such as brisk walking or running on the treadmill. Cardio kick classes incorporate cardio and core exercises, as well as kickboxing techniques for a head to toe exercise program.

Cardio Kickboxing in Buffalo makes use of conventional heavy bags and training pads, free weights and natural resistance through the use of one’s own body weight. Authentic kickboxing techniques provide both resistance training and cardio vascular benefits for all participants.

Benefits of Cardio Kickboxing

• Exceptional calorie burning workout. During a single kickboxing workout, you can burn from 500 to 800 calories. This is up to twice the calories burnt during a single step-aerobics class.

• Exercises are designed for all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or a kickboxing pro, each exercise is designed to push your individual limits.

• Total body workout. Each class incorporates exercises that work the upper body, the lower body and the core. Classes can include kicking, punching, speed bag drills, combination bag drills, shadow boxing, partner drills, jump rope, footwork and more. It is a true total body workout.

• Exercise variety. Exercise repetition is what turns many away from a consistent exercise routine. With cardio kickboxing, each class is unique. It is never the same old boring routine.

• Stress reliever. Exercise is a great way to reduce stress, but how many exercise programs allow you to punch and kick?! Cardio kickboxing is a great way to relieve stress while getting in shape.

Cardio kickboxing is a fun and effective program for achieving your fitness goals. If you are looking to drop some weight while increasing your endurance, strength, coordination and flexibility, cardio kickboxing in Buffalo is for you. To learn more or to get started, visit WNY Mixed Martial Arts and Fitness at www.wnymma.com today.