4 Pillars of MMA

[HTNcutecel]

Combat sports can be broken down into two classifications: Grappling and Striking.

In essence grappling involves going to the ground and striking is fighting while in a standing position. The 4 pillars reflect these styles of fighting and if one is able to become proficient in the 4 pillars they should be deemed a well rounded fighter.

Striking:
Boxing and Muay Thai (and Kickboxing)

The reason why I don't fully include Kickboxing is due to how it over laps with Muay Thai and is often seen as the lesser Muay Thai, namely because it leaves out knees and elbows that can be so destructive in a fight.

Grappling:
Wrestling and BJJ

Many argue what combination of two to create the most dangerous fighter, but that's a rather shallow argument imo because elements of all are needed, feel free to argue otherwise. Although, if I had to choose one to not include it would be boxing. Wrestling and BJJ and necessary since wrestling trains takedowns and BJJ, submissions. With boxing you're able to learn footwork, but muay thai covers everything needed in the striking department as it's so famously dubbed "the art of 8 limbs."

Why any of this matters

Men need to know how to fight. There have been other threads that go over the importance of learning how to fight but to sum it up:

You'll be more confident
If someone instigates a fight you'll be able to protect yourself
You won't be seen as a pussy

 

[Foreverbrad]

Shame I can never do it because my face will be held together by tiny titanium screws that will fracture the bone with even a moderate impact.

 

[Magnum Opus]

Shame I can never do it because my face will be held together by tiny titanium screws that will fracture the bone with even a moderate impact.

@NZb6Air