UFC GYM DRAWS IN NEW BLOOD AFTER SUCCESS OF FIGHT ISLAND
▶ Success of Judo champion’s taster session comes after spectacular MMA series in Abu Dhabi
UAE residents are strapping on the gloves and hitting the octagon as the booming popularity of UFC continues.
Inspired by world champion Khabib Nurmagomedov and American star Ronda Rousey, fitness enthusiasts who have been cooped up at home this summer turned to mixed martial arts as a stress reliever.
joined a taster class exclusively for teachers at UFC Gym in Jumeirah Beach Residence this week.
Half of those who signed up were women – proof that a sport that combines judo, taekwondo, jiu-jitsu and other martial arts has something for everyone, said Lisa Garrett, the gym’s trainer and gym engagement manager.
“People imagine this is like a fight club, but it is so much more than that,” said Ms Garrett, 42, who has represented England at judo.
“Our coaches teach beginners how to wrap their hands and train for 50 minutes for a full-body conditioning workout.”
Classes would usually admit up to 30 people, but capacity has been halved under current social distancing rules.
Coaches either focus on conditioning, or skill – with Brazilian jiu-jitsu an important aspect of teaching and training.
The octagon is central to the gym, where fighters absorb round after round of punishment during bouts.
Although sparring between opponents is not allowed, coaches are on hand to teach skills necessary to deliver pinpoint punches. The gym can host competitions and grading ceremonies in which children as young as four take part.
“If women see other women taking up the sport and doing well – it inspires them,” Ms Garrett said.
“Ronda Rousey has had a big impact in encouraging more women to take up MMA. It is the same with younger people wanting to get involved.”
One woman trying the sport for the first time was Natalie Hadfield, 28, from England, who works at Sunmarke School in Jumeirah Village Triangle.
“I thought I would give it a go because I’m interested in boxing and wanted to get in shape by doing something fun,” she said.
“It was really tiring, but great to get rid of some pent-up energy.
“The last few months have been boring, so it’s been great to get out and meet people again.
“It is a bit more fun than just running on a treadmill.”
The sport was already popular before Abu Dhabi hosted the spectacular Fight Island series last month.
Millions of viewers tuned in for the series of bouts held on the capital’s Yas Island.
The UFC Gym in JBR has 1,200 members and its branch in Business Bay has 2,000 – more proof the sport’s popularity is soaring.
Children’s classes are held for three age groups, spanning four to 15.
While the average age of those taking to the ring is 35, the sessions are suitable for all. At 45, Robert Welsh was one of the older teachers to try the sport.
Mr Welsh, from the UK, works for the Ministry of Education at schools across the UAE, and started Thai boxing 20 years ago.
“A lot of teachers struggled with the lockdown, either with the online teaching itself because of the new technology or losing the classroom environment,” Mr Welsh said.
“Many felt isolated or anxious about potentially losing their jobs, so hitting the bag has been a massive help for them.”
Mr Welsh is part of Teacher Socials, an events group that helps teachers find a work-life balance.
“Mental health and fitness go hand in hand,” Mr Welsh said.
“If one deteriorates, the other usually follows.
“We have held several events to get teachers together from Dubai to help those who felt alone and needed to relieve some pressure.
“The classes are great – they can burn calories and are brilliant stress relievers.”