As many of you know, I’m currently training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under Coach Shannon Gugerty.  He’s got experience as a UFC fighter underneath his belt, and he’s got a wealth of knowledge.  I mean, he is my coach :P.

I’m still training with Coach Caine for my Muay Thai skillz.  He’s coo.

So after my Brazilian Jiu Jitsu session, I asked him if he could tell me what the average training schedule is like for an MMA fighter, and he agreed.  I learned that it’s involved, and yet, somewhat approachable.

Before we go any further, know that neither Coach Shannon or SSB take any responsibility for any injury or bodily harm you may come across if you try this regimen out.  Consult your doctor before doing any strenuous exercise.

Coach Shannon’s MMA training schedule:

*Note – They are broke up into two sessions, one in the morning, one in the evening, with a 6-8 hour rest in between.  This is critical.

Monday
Morning Session: Jiu-Jitsu Based grappling for MMA.
Evening Session: hour of padwork, Striking Practice, Bagwork.

Tuesday
Morning Session: Wrestling training, hopefully cage-based
Evening Session: Sparring (striking)

Wednesday
Morning Session: Jiu-Jitsu Based grappling for MMA. (more practical approach, lighter)
Circuit Training: Plyometrics, Kettle Bells, Sprints (No longer than Half and hour, full strength)
Evening Session: hour of padwork, Striking Practice, Bagwork. (Maybe take a period off, depends on how you feel)

Thursday
Morning Session: Wrestling, Cage Wrestling
Evening Session: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (with an emphasis on MMA tactics),

Friday
Morning Session: Hardcore Sparring 1-1.5 hours.
Evening Session: Sprint Workout, Roadwork. 0.5 hours

Saturday
Morning Session: ONLY STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING.  Not weights, but plyometrics, kettle bells, ropes. 1-1.5 hours.

Sunday off.

Basically, this schedule would run for 6 weeks.  For the last two weeks, you would taper everything off as the fight approaches, and forgo sparring entirely.  He also advised me to eat clean.  Then again, you should be doing that anyway.  Right?  The lack of weights for strength training surprised me.  He’s a big advocate of circuit training for strength, so again, consult with your doctor or trainer.

“Yeah, I try to eat food that either flies or swims.” Coach Shannon

So there you have it.  Now…I’m gonna try to give this workout a go!

I’d like to give a shoutout to my homies and the staff at The Boxing Club in La Jolla.  You guys rock.  If you’re interested in joining, give them a look!

The Boxing Club
8650 Genesee Avenue, San Diego 92122
(858) 622-1903