Top Martial Arts for MMA

Mixed martial arts began with style vs. style competitions and based off that, we got to witness first hand what happens when a karate guy fought a BJJ guy; or what happens when a Kung Fu fighter was pit against a champion kick-boxer. What I liked most about the early UFC’s was the hype videos before the fights. They’d show the fighter practicing his art - many times in obviously choreographed fight situations. Then, in the real fight, they’d get completely owned.Mixed martial arts has now evolved and the fighters have adapted. A mixed martial artist trains to prepare himself for any fight-related situation. On the feet, in the clinch, against the cage, on the ground - it shouldn’t matter. So what are the top martial arts that prepare a fighter for these situations? Well, I believe that the following martial art combination is ideal (keep in mind that these are just my personal opinions and if you disagree, feel free to post your comments below the article).

Top Martial Arts for Stand-up

Muay Thai is without a doubt the most complete stand-up fighting style. It’s known as the science of 8 limbs as the boxers use their hands, elbows, knees and feet/shins to both attack and defend. If you can only learn 1 stand-up fighting style, Muay Thai should be your top choice.

That being said, Muay Thai in itself isn’t perfect and if you implement select techniques from other fighting styles to your Thai boxing base, you can take your striking to a whole new level.

Taekwondo on it’s own is no match for Muay Thai. However, the art does have some effective techniques that can be borrowed and implemented into your Muay Thai arsenal. Check out this fight to see what I mean. Spinning back kick anyone?

His name is Cyrus Washington and I believe he is currently training at Tiger Muay Thai in Phuket, Thailand at the moment.

Traditional boxing, whether it be Russian or western, also makes for a good addition to your Muay Thai base. Not that I necessarily agree with it, but Thai boxers are often criticized for their lack of head movement and weak punching ability. Regardless, it never hurts to focus additional time solely on your hand speed and punching power.

Top Martial Arts for Grappling

If you had to choose a grappling art to base your fighting style around, I’d recommend wrestling. The reasoning is simple - a good wrestler has the ability to dictate where the fight will take place. They can easily take you down and if they want to keep the fight standing, they can keep the fight on the feet. Getting a good wrestler to the mat is no easy task.

That being said, wrestling is far from being a complete grappling art. Wrestlers typically lack submission knowledge and are unable to effectively fight off their backs. Can’t really blame them as in typical wrestling competition, the match is stopped once they get pinned.

A perfect supplement to the wrestling style is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is an incredible ground system that emphasis all sorts of chokes and joint locks - many of which can be performed off your back. A common criticism of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is that the practitioners often times have poor takedown ability so combining it with wrestling would certainly solve that problem. The two styles seem to compliment each other very well.

If you didn’t want to go the Wrestling/BJJ route, you could always go with grappling arts such as Sambo, Judo or Combat Submission Wrestling (CSW) - if you’re lucky enough to find a school in your area.

Judo has much stronger takedowns and throws than Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (even though BJJ stems from Judo). A lot of the takedowns in Judo and Sambo (Sambo is also based off of Judo) are initiated from a body clinch so they’re upper body takedowns rather than wrestling “shots”.

Whatever you decide, just ensure that your style combination is well rounded.

Agree? Disagree? Let me know.

Your comments are more than welcome.

 

Globalization of MMA

It was recently announced that UFC co-owner Lorenzo Fertitta will be stepping away from his casino duties to focus 100% of his efforts on globalizing the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Dana White made his vision clear in an interview with sports illustrated where he made the following claims.

“In the next five to eight years, this thing’s going to be the biggest sport in the world — bigger than the [freakin'] NFL, bigger than Major League Soccer, bigger than World Cup soccer or whatever the hell they call it. Bigger than anything. So remember I told you that.”

Those are strong claims, but is it possible? Could there be any truth to his bold statement? Will mixed martial arts become more popular than soccer? Honestly, although I have no doubt that MMA has only scratched the surface in terms of it’s popularity, I don’t see it becoming “bigger than world cup soccer” as Dana put it.

The target audience for mixed martial arts events are males between the ages of 18-35. The target audience of world cup soccer is much more broad. Part of the appeal with soccer is the whole country vs. country, national pride thing.

I’ve often wondered what would happen if mixed martial arts was marketed in a similar way. When the UFC travels to foreign countries, it becomes very apparent that the crowd displays overwhelming favouritism to the local fighters - as to be expected.

Georges St. Pierre in Canada, Micheal Bisping in the UK - these 2 fighters have entire nations on their backs. Roger Huerta is another fighter with similar marketability and right from the get-go, I could tell that the UFC had a great interest in his success. Huerta is an exciting fighter with the looks and charisma to become a fan favourite. You can also bet that if the UFC was to hold an event in Mexico, Huerta would be one of the headliners.

Since the UFC wants to increase the global appeal of mixed martial arts, it should be interesting to see if they utilize nation vs. nation strategies in doing so. Brazil vs. United States, Canada vs. U.K, Japan vs. Russia - this Olympic approach to MMA is an intriguing idea. Of course, certain nations are a lot stronger than others but things may even out as the sport gains popularity and more MMA gyms start popping up around the world.

If they aim to make MMA more popular than even world cup soccer, I don’t see how they’d be able to do that without adding a national pride aspect to things. I mean, I’m not a huge hockey fan but I cheer for the Ottawa Senators. I’m definitely not a curling or gymnastics fan either but you know what, I watch the Olympics and root for my country representatives.

One thing is for certain, regardless of what marketing angle the UFC uses, their efforts in increasing the popularity and global acceptance of mixed martial arts should be commended.

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Protein Review

Product Reviewed

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein

Product Cost

2lbs = $21.99
5lbs = $41.99
10lbs = $79.99

Company Product Description

Optimum nutrition gold standard whey gives you more of what you want (pure, unadulterated whey protein) with less of what you don’t (fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, lactose, and other carbohydrates) with every serving. Optimum nutrition gold standard whey is better than ever! Here’s why:

1) Optimum nutrition gold standard whey protein provides more whey protein isolates (WPI) - the purest and most expensive source of whey protein available.

2) Higher protein percentage. Optimum nutrition gold standard whey has always been a leader in this respect. Now with 24 grams of protein in just slightly over one-ounce serving, it’s nearly 79% protein by weight!

3) We’ve included more HydroWhey strategically hydrolyzed, low molecular weight whey peptides to make optimum nutrition gold standard whey even faster acting!

4) Optimum nutrition gold standard whey now contains lactase and Aminogen digestive enzymes to further enhance absorption and make this product even more friendly to lactose intolerant individuals.

5) Optimum nutrition gold standard whey is instantized to mix easily and completely with just a few twirls of a spoon.

6) Every serving supplies even more low, moderate, and high molecular weight, biologically active whey protein microfractions including Alpha-lactalbumin, Glycomacropeptides, Beta-lactoglobulin, Immunoglobulin G (IgG), Lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, and various growth factors.

7) Over 4 grams of glutamine and glutamine precursors as well as 5 grams of BCAAs (leucine, isoleucine, and valine) in each scoop!

Personal Experience

While I don’t have the actual sales stats to back it up, I believe that optimum nutrition gold standard whey is currently the best selling protein in the world. Is it the best quality protein on the market? No, it’s not the “BEST”. However, what optimum nutrition gold standard whey offers is a decent quality product at a very affordable price.

Optimum nutrition gold standard whey comes in a variety of flavours (gingerbread cookie, pumpkin pie and rocky road are a few of the unique standouts). It mixes well with a blender although it doesn’t mix as well as the Isoflex brand with a shaker cup. Nonetheless, what’s an extra 10 seconds of shaking to save some money, right?

Optimum nutrition gold standard whey is not a pure isolate, but rather an isolate concentrate blend. To learn the difference between the two, click here for a detailed overview.

All in all, optimum nutrition gold standard whey offers a quality product at a very affordable price - a combination that is no doubt the reason for the success of the product.

Recommendation - YES!

Buy Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Here!

Allmax “Isoflex” Protein Review

Product Reviewed

Allmax “Isoflex” Protein Powder

Product Cost

2lbs. = $34.65

5lbs. = $76.99

Company Product Description

“Never before has whey protein tasted so good, mixed so easily with such a high-quality macronutrient profile, until now. It%u2019s no wonder that Allmax Isoflex Whey Protein Isolate has so quickly become the most trusted name in whey protein. With an unheard of 90% yield of pure whey protein in every scoop, amazing taste and the perfect blend of RAPID ABSORPTION%u2122 and ULTRA-FLOW Delivery%u2122 cofactors, no other whey protein can compare.”

“Isoflex whey protein stimulates lean muscle growth and provides the nutrients needed to fuel performance. Whether you%u2019re a bodybuilder, fitness model, athlete or average gym-goer Isoflex whey protein isolate is the only one that provides both taste and results without compromise. Isoflex whey protein isolate for the taste you crave and the results you desire!”

Allmax “Isoflex” Nutrient Breakdown

WPI (Whey Protein Isolate) Complex [WPI Fortified%u2122]: CTP (Cold Temperature Process), cross-flow microfiltered whey protein isolate, WPI (97% Whey Protein Isolate) and Synermune%u2122 Colostrum, a natural source of EGF, IGF-1 (growth factor). This high-quality whey protein isolate complex can help you reach your body-shaping goals.

NOS Complex [Ultra-Flow Delivery%u2122]: Contains L-Arginine, Folic Acid and N-acetyl-cystine (N.A.C). Designed to increase blood flow and increase Nitrogen and Whey peptide delivery. It can also boost nitric oxide levels, thereby speeding up recovery and protein delivery to muscle tissues.

Glutamine Complex [GLUTAMAX TECHNOLOGY%u2122]: Naturally occurring glutamine peptides. Designed to improve recovery and provide immune support. To learn about glutamine, click here.

IS Complex [Rapid Absorption%u2122]: Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA), d-Pinitol and 4-Hydroxylsoleucine. Designed to increase insulin receptor sensitivity, enhance rapid protein uptake and support healthy insulin function.

Personal Experience with Allmax “Isoflex”

I chose this as my first protein review simply because I’ve been using it on and off for years now and have been very happy with the product. I’ve tried a lot of protein supplements as I spent a few years working in a supplement store and out of all the products, I can honestly say that the allmax isoflex protein mixes the best. You don’t even need a blender - just throw it in a shaker cup with some milk, water or juice and shake it up for about 10-20 seconds.

Believe me, not all protein supplements are that versatile. Try that with some of the lower quality powders and there will be clumps of protein floating around in your shake.

I also like to make “protein parfaits” every now and then and isoflex is the only brand I use for them. “Protein parfaits” are basically just a scoop of protein mixed in with some yogurt. You stir it around, mixed it up, then add some fruit and nuts. It actually tastes amazing!

As for the quality - isoflex (as you would have guessed) is an isolate protein. Isolate proteins get absorbed very quickly and are ideal for immediately after your workout when your body is craving protein the most. More a detailed breakdown of exactly what to look for in a protein powder, click here.

As for the allmax isoflex protein, it’s great!

Recommendation - YES!!

BUY ALLMAX ISOFLEX HERE!

Punching Power Workout

If there’s one thing you take from this article, let it be that power is a result of the combination of strength and speed (strength + speed = power). When designing a training program to increase the power of your punches, you can’t have a one-dimensional view on things. Your exercise selection and training parameters (reps, contraction speed, rest etc.) should be varied for optimal results.Before I got into martial arts, my chest workouts consisted of the standard decline, flat and incline pressing movements and occasionally, I’d throw in a cable fly exercise to finish off. Now that my priorities have shifted from bodybuilding to performance enhancement, my chest workout is now geared around improving both the speed and power of my punches.

I’ve put together a sample workout for you guys to try. Keep in mind that the purpose of this workout is to develop speed and power. Don’t neglect your endurance training because as you already know, muscular endurance is an extremely important aspect of the fight game.

Without further ado, here’s the workout..

Flat Barbell Press

I start things off with the barbell bench press exercise and I’ll go relatively heavy. The purpose of this is to develop maximum strength (recall that punching power is a result of strength and speed). If you can, attach chains or resistance bands to the end of the barbell as doing so will provide additional resistance as you drive the barbell upwards.

Exercise Guidelines

• 5 Sets
• Gradually increase the weight
• Repetitions = 10,8,6,4,1-2
• Rest = 2-4 minutes (heavier load = longer rest)

Smith Machine Throws

This is a great exercise for hand speed and punching power providing it’s done in an explosive fashion. For this exercise, you would use only around 25% of what you would normally use for your regular sets. As for the execution, you basically toss it up as high as you can, catch it, quickly lower the barbell towards the chest (don’t go beyond a 90 degree angle) and toss the barbell up again. Make quicker the exercise is performed, the more effective it will be.

Exercise Guidelines

• 3 Sets
• 6-8 repetitions per set
• Rest = 3 minutes

Plyometric Push Ups

Yet another great exercise to improve the power of your punches is the plyometric push up. To perform the exercise, you will need to find two of the steps used in aerobics classes and position them between 4-6 feet apart (depending on the length of your arms). You start in a push up position with 1 hand placed atop each bench. When you’re ready, push off and move your hands to a position between the steps. Without hesitation, explode upwards and move your hands back atop the steps.

Exercise Guidelines

• 3 sets
• As many reps as possible (to make it harder, increase the height of the steps)
• Rest interval = 3 minutes

Olympic Bar Push Punch

This exercise is a great way to not only add power to your punches, but also to increase your core strength since you’ll have to brace your torso throughout the movement. Make sure you grab the barbell BELOW the weight plate and not above it. Holding the barbell too high will force you to drive your arm forward at an upward arc that’s unrealistic to throwing a real punch. Keep a stance identical to the stance you’d use while fighting. This exercise; as with most of the exercises in this workout, should be done in an explosive fashion.

Exercise Guidelines

• 3 sets
• 15 reps each
• Do both arms consecutively before resting
• 2 minutes rest

Resistance Band Punches

This is about as functional as it gets. Resistance band punches are excellent for hand speed as you’re simply punching against resistance. To perform the exercise, all you do is wrap a couple resistance bands around the bar on a pulley station (or anything that’s shoulder height). You then grasp the handles and ensure that the bands are positioned under your arms. From there, it’s easy - you shadowbox. If you have a workout partner with you, get him to hold the focus mitts for you. It’s actually pretty fun. As you fatigue, you simply drop one band and continue the exercise (providing your using more than one resistance band).

Exercise guidelines

• 3 rounds
• 1 minute each
• 1 minute rest

Freemotion Hooks

This exercise is performed on the freemotion cable machine. Not every gym has one of these. If yours does, then I guess you’re in luck. The resistance band exercise worked on the speed of your straight shots while this exercise is designed to train your hand speed and punching power on your hooks. The freemotion hook exercise is also great for developing rotary power within your core.

Exercise Guidelines

• 3 sets (each arm)
• 10 repetitions
• 1 minute rest

So give this program a try and see how you like it. You’ll probably find it to be a refreshing chance of pace. I prefer this workout over my old bodybuilding workouts. I especially like the reaction I get from confused people when they see me doing some of them and shadowboxing in between my sets.

Enjoy!

Keep in mind, most of these exercises focus on the chest & shoulder region. Perhaps even more important is developing the rotary strength of your core region. Core development is very important for not only your punching power, but also, about 90% of MMA related movements. There’s a book out that has all kinds of crazy, yet functional core exercises designed specifically for the martial artist. If you’re interested, you can check it by clicking the link.. THIS IS THE LINK

 

 

 

3 Core Exercises for MMA Performance

Support can mean a lot of things. But when we are talking about supporting an active life that is free from injury, we are specifically referring to a strong set of abdominals. Developing the muscle groups that support, stabilize and engage movements of the torso including; the rectus abdominis, the internal / external obliques, the transverse abdominis and the posterior chain including the upper back and lats, along with a the knowledge of how to properly prepare to pick up an external load, is essential to being able to stay injury free and engage in an active lifestyle. This load could be your children, a dumbbell or barbell at the gym, a grocery bag, a box or anything else you need to move in a busy day.

Let’s discuss three torso developing movements that require muscle endurance and bracing proficiency. These exercises can be quickly and easily incorporated into your training at home or in the gym and will develop someone’s ability to “support” not only their own bodyweight but an additional load.

Planks

Planks are where you get into a push-up position but instead of on getting set on your outstretched and locked arms, you will setup with your forearms resting on the ground. You are facing downward with your back is rigid, your glutes are tight and your torso is braced. You will hold this position for a set length of time. 30 seconds to 1 minute is good and 2 minutes + is great. There is also a variation where you are braced on your side and preventing lateral flexion. You will roll up from the standard plank position to your side, still resting on your forearm which is now perpendicular to your body. Your top foot will be resting on your bottom foot. This variation will target your obliques more specifically. Other options include bridging and weighted bridging variations.

Overhead Walks

You will start this exercise by locking two dumbbells, two kettlebells, a barbell or two milk jugs filled with water (if you are working out at home) overhead in an outstretched position. Your arms should be next to your head and the implements will be fully locked overhead. Now, you will go for a walk. In a straight line, zig zag pattern or even in a figure 8 pattern. With each step, you will have to adjust with the sway of the movement and against the weight of the implements. This will force you to brace your torso to remain rigid and unwavering while you are moving. This movement is excellent for anyone, independent of your personal goals, as it teaches dynamic stabilization. You will also find breathing to be labored and your mental toughness will go through the roof.

Farmers Walks

The farmers walk has long been a staple in strongman contests. Because they load athletes while they are moving, strength coaches are now realizing their direct carryover to improving bracing, deceleration and absorption abilities. Farmers walks can be done with the athlete carrying a variety of objects including kettlebells, rocks, sandbags, dumbbells and even farmers implements. The idea is to load up each of the athlete’s hands with a weight and get moving. You can travel for a certain distance or for a specific time period. To make the movement harder, drop one of the weights and only have the athlete loaded on one side of their body. This increases the demand to remain rigid and unwavering while the athlete is in motion.

Try these exercises out to jump start your workout and improve your overall strength. Creativity when you’re not at the gym will go a long way in helping you achieve your goals and remain injury free.

About The Author

Jim Smith is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist and an expert trainer who writes for Men’s Fitness and the Elite Q/A Staff. Jim has been involved in strength training as a performance enhancement specialist for over 8 years and has worked with athletes from various sports who compete at various levels. He has published articles about his unique training style and innovative methods for many prominent strength and fitness related sites. He is also the authored of three renowned strength manuals. For more innovative training solutions, visit
Combat Core Manual

Fight Analysis: Silva vs. Irvin

It was inevitable. In a division with a shortage of legit contenders, Anderson Silva is making a move up to the talent rich light heavyweight division - for at least one fight anyway. Silva will be making his light heavyweight debut against James Irvin. The event is set take place on July 19th and will air, free of charge, on Spike TV.

I have to say, this is a genius business tactic by the UFC. With Affliction making its debut the same evening, the UFC hopes to lure fans away from Afflictions pay per view event with a free fight card of their own. With Anderson Silva being a fan favourite, they may just be successful. Personally, I recommend ordering the Affliction pay per view AND watching the UFC. It’s always good to support up and coming MMA organizations. That being said, this Anderson Silva vs. James Irvin fight may be more competitive than people think.

Anderson Silva is a very “complete” fighter. He’s a pin-point Muay Thai striker and holds a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt that was issued by the Nogueira brothers. However, if there’s any criticism regarding Silva’s skill set, it’s his wrestling ability. But, when you’re that good on your feet AND on the ground, it doesn’t really matter where the fight takes place as you’re prepared for any situation.

Here’s where this match up gets interesting. James Irvin has been training at the Fairtex Bangplee camp in Thailand. He was training there while preparing for the Rashad Evans fight and when I saw that, I thought it was a really bad decision since Rashad is an accomplished wrestler and would likely take the fight to the ground immediately.

I don’t think Anderson Silva poses the same threat of the takedown. He’s no Rashad Evans when it comes to wrestling and the task of taking James Irvin to the mat is even more of a challenge considering that Irvin is a natural, strong, lean 205lb fighter while Anderson is best suited to fight in the 185lb division.

This fight will likely take place on the feet. Both are great strikers and I’m really looking forward to seeing what sort of progress Irvin has made while training at the Fairtex camp. We saw what he did to Houston Alexsander in the 8 seconds that the fight lasted.

This is one of those fights where anything can happen. When the betting odds come out for this fight, it might not be a bad idea to throw some money on the underdog - which will most likely be Irvin. Not saying that Irvin is guaranteed for the win, I’m just saying that depending on the odds, it may be a good investment.

Update: The odds are now in and Anderson Silva is a heavy favourite. It might be worth throwing some money in Irvin at these odds.

CHECK THE ODDS AND PLACE A BET HERE!

Hayabusa MMA Gloves

Company Background

Hayabusa fightwear is relatively new on the MMA scene. They are a Canadian company and pride themselves on producing the “most advanced fightwear available”. They’re gradually expanding their product stock and at the time of this writing, the hayabusa product line-up consists of 4oz MMA gloves, full size sparring gloves, fight shorts, instep shin guards, rashguards and their most recent addition - “pro MMA” headgear.

Product Reviewed

4oz hayabusa gloves (MMA competition style)

Product Cost $64.99 BEST PRICE HERE!

(Company) Product Description

• Exclusive Y-shape volar design to keep gloves tight to the palm whether fists are clenched or when hands are open.
• Dual cross directional strap system for ultimate wrist support and striking performance.
• 4oz. regulation weight, professional MMA gloves.

Personal Experience

The first thing you notice when you put the hayabusa gloves on is the snug, yet comfortable fit. According to the description, the snug fit is a result of the “dual cross directional strap system”. With some of the other MMA gloves on the market, when you open your palm to parry punches, the glove feels loose. Not the hayabusa gloves. Another thing I noticed is the softness of the leather. The hayabusa MMA gloves are 65% “premium cowhide leather”, as indicated by the inside tag.

Compared to the fairtex MMA gloves, as reviewed here, the hayabusa gloves are much softer. Obviously, the fairtex gloves, being harder, would hurt more so the gloves you select are dependant on what you’re trying to do. If you’re just using them for training, I’d go with the hayabusa gloves for sure. The quality is second to none.

With regards to the sizing, the hayabusa gloves are larger than the fairtex gloves. My only complaint about the hayabusa gloves is that it sometimes feels like the leather on the inside of the finger slot is scraping my pinkie finger when I clench my fist. But really, you can’t really train MMA and complain about a mild discomfort in your pinkie finger can you?

All things considered, the hayabusa MMA gloves are great.

Hayabusa Gloves Recommendation - YES!

MMA Workout: 3 Exercises for Explosive Power

At the moment, mixed martial arts (MMA) is the fastest growing sport in the world - and for good reason. The fights are fast paced and exciting, anything can happen at anytime and the fighters, in my personal opinion, are the most well conditioned athletes in the sporting world.

If an MMA fighter shows up to the fight in less than top condition, the consequences can be pretty severe. They’ll likely end up getting knocked out or submitted via choke or a joint lock. Not to mention the humiliation and ego-blow that accompany defeat.

MMA workouts should be carefully thought out and designed specifically around the demands of the sport. A well designed MMA workout doesn’t consist of lateral raises or glute kickbacks. It’s not about “toning” and it’s not about “getting jacked”. An MMA workout is about increasing speed, power, lactate threshold and training the muscles of the body to function together as a kinetic chain.

The following 3 exercises develop what’s known as “functional strength” as it carries over to MMA performance.

Plyometric Push Ups: This exercise works on hand-speed and explosive power. All you need to perform this exercise is 2 steps from the aerobics room at your gym. For a video and step by step instructions on how to perform this exercise, click here.

Tire Flips: Unfortunately, not everyone has access to a giant tractor tire, but if you do (many training centers have them), this exercise is a must for your MMA workout program. When you analyze the muscle mechanics of a takedown (hit low, drive upwards), you’ll notice that the tire flip exercise closely resembles this movement.

Hammer Hits: This exercise is done using a sledge hammer and the tire used for the tire flip exercise. You’ll see this exercise being performed in about 80% of the MMA training highlights. Reason being; it works. It develops rotary strength within the core.

Speaking of core strength, the development of your core should be a primary focus in all your MMA workout programs. You’re only as strong as your weakest link and your core is the “strength center” so to speak as it’s involved in pretty much every MMA-related movement you.

For a comprehensive listing of core strengthening exercises that you can immediately implement into your MMA workout program, you can check out the “combat core strength” MMA workout resource by clicking here!

Tapout Shorts Review

Keith Jardine first wore these shorts in his fight with Stephan Bonner and immediately after the fight, I went online, did a search and made the purchase. Jardine vs. Bonner, as you can imagine, that was quite a while ago. To be honest, I don’t even think you can get these shorts anymore. I did a quick check through a couple online retailers and they were nowhere to be found.

I figured I’d write a review on the tapout shorts anyway though as it’ll give you an idea regarding the fit, comfort and the quality.

Tapout Shorts Comfort

To each his own but I personally can’t stand tight/high cut shorts. The tapout “long shorts” are about knee height (which is perfect) and they’re baggy enough that you never feel restricted - even when throwing high kicks. If these shorts had pockets, I’d wear them around during my day to day activities.

Tapout Shorts Quality

I’ve been using these shorts for well over a year now for both grappling and muay thai classes. They’ve held up pretty well. Thus far, the Velcro enclosure system has stayed in-tact and the fabric hasn’t ripped.

In Closing

I’m very happy with my tapout shorts. The look, quality and feel are all great. Keep in mind, this is a review for the long shorts (tapout makes different styles of shorts). Also, when choosing a size, remember that if you’re grappling, you’ll be wearing a cup so you might want to order a size larger than normal. There’s an internal drawstring so you’ll have no problem with tightening them up.

Tapout Shorts Recommendation - YES!

Next Page »