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Despite their differences, athletes at MMA and horse training go through similar things in order to become the best. Yes, it is difficult to compare MMA and horse jockeys since these are two of the most distant sports in the world.
However, if we look closely at their training regimes, we will actually find some similarities. Many people consider the MMA to be one of the toughest sports on the planet just because of how brutal it is. On the other hand, jockeys in some cases have a higher risk of injury or even death just because they are handling an animal at 40 mph in a close action.
Let’s focus on the training. How do MMA athletes and jockeys prepare for a big event? Are there any similarities?
The Rigorous Training Regimen
MMA or mixed martial arts isn’t only about brute strength. In fact, most athletes that have brute strength but nothing else usually last about one round. The MMA is a complex dance of techniques. Anything from boxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling and more.
This means that MMA athletes need to focus on multiple things such as core muscle strength, technique, flexibility, and cardiovascular and mental health.
So, what does the average MMA training regime include?
Well, depending on the class, match, and athlete, but most of them practice:
First of all, we have striking, which is most important in combat. This means that MMA athletes practice throwing punches, kicks, elbows, and knees. Secondly, they move on to grappling or wrestling. The goal here is to master how to maneuver your opponent’s weight which usually results in easier takedowns. It involves jiu-jitsu moves.
Then we have strength and conditioning, which is crucial for building endurance and power. These are usually high-intensity workouts and are pretty exhausting.
The last step to MMA training is putting all the things you’ve learned into practice. This means sparring sessions. These are simulated fights that teach athletes how to apply their newly learned skills in practice.
According to FightMatrix, a top-tier MMA fighter trains anywhere from 6-8 hours a day especially months before a big fight This combines multiple disciplines and it is a balance between creating the perfect strategy and building muscle strength and power.
I am exhausted only by writing about the training regime of an MMA fighter.
Jockey Training
On the other hand, we have the small physique jockeys, that go through hell in order to compete in the big league. Don’t let their size fool you. Their training regime is still very difficult. It is maybe not so focused on muscle building, but instead, they have flexibility, intense cardiovascular training, and a strict diet, that not many people can last with.
So, what does a typical jockey training look like?
Well, it starts by establishing contact with the horse and teaching the horse basic commands. Here athletes handle 1,000-pound animals, so they need to build a strong relationship before they mount it in a race.
In the meantime, jockeys are constantly working on their balance, flexibility, and responsiveness. Have you seen the position that jockeys are in while riding a horse? I’m not sure I will be able to untangle myself after entering that position.
This means that flexibility is important.
The next step is conditioning. This includes long rides, jumps, running, and obstacle courses just to build stamina. Horse racing jockeys also work on their muscles, and they usually lift weights, but with one eye on their weight since they wouldn’t want to get too much muscle mass.
All of these things matter if you are a jockey or a bettor who wants to choose the winning jockey. If you are just a beginner in the world of horse racing check out this betting guide on TwinSpires.com.
But jockeys are not solely responsible for wins. We also have trainers.
Training a horse on the other hand requires patience endeavor, often taking years to master. The dedication required to build trust and responsiveness in a horse is immense. It’s not just about riding; it’s about understanding and communicating with an animal that has its own will and instincts.
Mental Toughness: The Mind Game
MMA Fighters: Mental toughness is a cornerstone in MMA. Fighters face immense pressure, both physically and mentally. The ability to stay calm, think strategically, and maintain focus even when exhausted is crucial.
The UFC’s rigorous schedule, with events watched by millions globally, adds to the mental strain. Fighters often use techniques such as visualization, meditation, and sports psychology to stay mentally sharp.
Horse Trainers: Similarly, horse trainers must possess significant mental fortitude. Horses are highly sensitive to their handler's emotions and can become skittish if they sense anxiety or fear.
Trainers must remain calm and patient, even when a horse isn’t responding as expected. The bond between horse and rider is built on trust, and maintaining this requires a steady and composed mindset.
Injuries and Recovery
MMA Fighters
Injuries are part and parcel of an MMA fighter's life. Common injuries include fractures, concussions, ligament tears, and muscle strains.
Fighters undergo rigorous physical therapy and rehabilitation to get back into the octagon. Recovery is not just physical; the psychological aspect of bouncing back from a tough loss or injury is equally challenging.
Horse Trainers
While not as physically violent, horse training can also be hazardous. Falls, kicks, and bites can result in serious injuries. Horse trainers often rely on their experience and quick reflexes to avoid harm, but injuries do happen. Recovery involves both physical healing and regaining the confidence of the horse, which can be spooked by such incidents.
Jockeys
On the other hand, being a jockey means that you’ll eventually suffer from an industry due to how dangerous the sport is. In some cases, these injuries may be even fatal.
This is why being prepared for a race is really important in the world of horse racing, even though there are many aspects that you cannot predict.
