Taking a Punch as a Mixed Martial Artist!

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve seen lots of guys who are just plain tough. They look like they will always come out on top in a fight. Although they are probably not the biggest guys you’ve ever seen, they all have a solid, muscular build and a hardcore attitude that doesn’t put up with trouble-making. Guys like this often work as bouncers or security guards, and often at bars or other public places where alcohol-fueled violence occurs. The thing they all have in common is that they don’t ever show any sort of weakness. They understand that strength — both mental and physical — is an asset.

But a lot of times, security types are tough because they’re willing to initiate violence. They don’t wait around to get sucker punched or blindsided. Instead, they start the violence on their own terms, and finish it so it won’t reignite later. They’re not making things up as they go along.

Basically, if you’re the type who always seems to be falling prey to bullies, but you don’t actually want to be in unhealthy situations like this, you can learn a few things from security guys. You’ll probably conclude that these guys are cool under pressure and they can handle violent situations better than most folks who don’t get into situations of the sort as often. You’d be correct in your assumptions. Bouncers, security guards, and doormen know what works. And they don’t bother with trends or hype, they only do what has been proven successful.

If you ask martial artists about how to take a punch, you will receive different opinions on the subject. But most knowledgeable people will talk to you about strengthening your neck muscles.. The stronger your neck, the easier it is to withstand a punch to the head.. Since the stronger muscles prevent the head from getting rocked back and forth (as much as if you had a weak neck), it’s just harder to get knocked out.. The thick-necked look that is common among fighters is there for a reason.. The thick neck look might be unfashionable, but it’s effective in a fight.

Yet another important tip is to always keep your eyes on the action. They never take their eyes off someone who is out to make trouble. The reason is, this is the way you get knocked out — by not keeping an eye on your opponent’s fists. If you don’t see a punch coming, it’ll hurt you. But see the punch coming and you’ll always be able to avoid it.

This is the reason good fighters or martial artists never throw solitary, single punches.. A good boxing combination does more than look fast and flashy. It actually disguises the power punch so the opponent has much less of a chance of seeing it. Because when he can’t see it, he won’t be able to defend against it, slip it, duck it, or block it.
So, don’t worry about it if you didn’t start MMA or boxing training at a super-young age. All you need is the right attitude, some basic concepts, and a strong, capable body. Work out with other positive people and you’ll be able to hold your own any day.