Mixed Martial Arts

@Craig: I do not recall stating that cross-fit was not a good choice for MMA fighters. In fact I think it is a great choice. Crossfit encompasses everything a MMA practitioner needs. I am not a huge proponent of traditional bodybuilding routines or too much traditional aerobic training. MMA is a sport that relies heavily on "power-endurance," although it encompasses a variety of bioenergetic needs and therefor would benefit from varying training approaches.

I believe in high intensity, varied, smart training for fighters.That would include periods of circuit training, traditional power/strength training, old-school strong man training as well as regular restorative, recovery periods. I have friends/colleagues involved in Crossfit, several of them are martial artists/ex-military etc. they train fighters and they do a very good job of it.

I hope that helps.

I am confused on why you say CrossFit doesn't train fighters.
If you mean long, slow distance aerobic training is not programmed in CrossFit, you are mistaken (5km,10km, 15km runs/rows/swims are programmed).
Also, it has been very well-documented that traditional aerobic training greatly reduces muscular strength.
Being a practioner in MMA myself, I need to have strength, power, speed, and a great muscular endurance to go through what I call an interval-based sport. (2/3/5 minutes on 1 minute off).
I am just curious to what is your experience on why CrossFit isn't a sound choice?

While the above does not teach you how to become a MMA fighter it definately provides a solid foundation and method for one's fitness. Variation, progression and the manner of the exercise/s conducted is invidualistic..Very helpful article that is testiment to the work eethic of a full-contact martial artist.

The one huge component left out of this article is aerobic endurance, power and capacity training. Intervals are great but not for developing the aerobic capacity needed for three five minute rounds. Crossfit does a lot of things I like. Training fighters is not one.

Great article!! I particularly like the part of training through an injury for the professional and being smart for the amateur. Looking forward to reading more great articles.