| The purpose of this study was to investigate physiological characteristics of mixed martial art (MMA) fighters. Eleven competitive male MMA fighters volunteered to be subjects in this study. Their physiological profiles included: maximum oxygen uptake (V˙O2Max), body composition (bone mineral density (BMD) and body fat percentage), muscular strength (1RM), muscular endurance (push-ups and abdominal crunches), flexibility (sit and reach and shoulder flexion), power (vertical jump), and agility (T-Test). The major results find no differences between subjects in this study compared to subjects in literature that review the physiological characteristics of athletes in other martial art disciplines.;The results of this study combined with self-reports from the subjects, raise concern about not only the weight loss of these athletes but the rate at which it occurred. This would support the need for continued research in this area to address the associated risk factors more accurately and to further understand their clinical implications. |
