Unleashing the Inner Fighter: Adapting Your Fighting Style to Your Body Type
In the world of combat sports, the notion of an ideal body type often dominates discussions, leading to the misconception that certain physiques are inherently more suited for fighting than others. However, as Firas Zahabi, renowned MMA coach and frequent guest on Joe Rogan’s podcast, eloquently explains, “fighting is in everybody’s DNA.”
Zahabi asserts that while there may be optimal body types for specific sports like basketball or football, fighting is a unique realm where every individual possesses the inherent ability to defend themselves and engage in combat. He emphasizes that the key lies in adapting one’s fighting style to their unique physical attributes and temperament.
“You got to fight according to your body type,” Zahabi stresses, dispelling the notion that fighters should strive to emulate a particular style. “Muhammad Ali fought a certain way because he has certain attributes. If he tried to fight like Tyson, it would backfire. If Tyson tried to fight like Muhammad Ali, it would backfire.”
Zahabi advocates for a personalized approach to fighting, encouraging individuals to explore their strengths and weaknesses and develop a style that complements their natural abilities. This process, he suggests, should be an ongoing journey of self-discovery, with fighters continuously refining their techniques based on their evolving skillset and experience.
“Everybody has to start with the basics,” Zahabi advises, emphasizing the importance of a solid foundation in fundamental fighting principles. However, he believes that after a period of dedicated training, individuals should begin to specialize, tailoring their approach to their unique physical and psychological characteristics.
“You think, oh, I’m just going to jab in and out like Ali, dude, do you have the attributes that Ali has?” Zahabi challenges aspiring fighters, encouraging them to recognize and leverage their own unique strengths rather than attempting to replicate another fighter’s style.
Zahabi is renowned MMA coach and his understanding of the combat sports is very substantial. He has coached some of the most heard names in UFC like Georges St-Pierre, Robert Whittaker and Vitor Belfort. Such is his understanding of fighting that despite training all these notable individuals, he advises young fighters to not lure into someone’s style of combat.
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Every aspiring fighter must listen his message of empowerment, emphasizing that every individual possesses the innate ability to fight. He believes that identifying and harnessing one’s natural talents, coupled with dedicated training and self-discovery, can lead to the development of a unique and effective fighting style.
Zahabi advocates for embracing the diversity of body types and fighting styles, recognizing that each individual brings a unique set of strengths and attributes to the combat arena. By adapting their approach to their own physical and psychological characteristics, fighters can unleash their inner warrior and discover their true potential.
