Training camp

In mixed martial arts (MMA), a training camp (also often referred to as a fight camp or just camp) is the period prior to an organised bout in which a fighter trains specifically for the upcoming event. Fighters will usually train at a martial arts gym, where they may have other fighters and coaches able to assist them with various forms of training, including in different styles of martial arts. If they have one, a fighter would generally work with their regular coach. Some fighters, especially in professional MMA, bring in additional specialised coaches to help with the training process. Structure Professional MMA training camps typically commence 4 to 10 weeks prior to an event. For more significant fights or other major events, such as championship or title fights, a training camp may be up to 16 weeks. In amateur MMA, or even rarely in professional MMA, events may take place at short notice, either intentionally or due to fighters withdrawing from planned bouts. In these instances, fighters will only have a period of several days in which to conduct their training camps. In such cases fighters rely on their general training for the bout, and typically spend the training camp on ensuring they achieve the required weight for the bout. Fighters will typically commence their training camps at their regular gyms with their coaches and trainers, but some may visit different gyms throughout the training camp in order to train with athletes fighting with different martial arts and styles. MMA training camps generally use an undulating training cycle, which helps a fighter balance all required elements of their training into shorter intensive cycles. Developing an effective and comprehensive training regimen can be difficult due to the amount of training elements required for an MMA fighter. A training camp weekly cycle may include several martial arts sessions, cardiovascular and endurance training, speed and power training, as well as strength training. Coaches and athletes also use a training camp to analyse the upcoming opponents fighting style and skills, and develop counter strategies specifically for the bout. Coaches then use this information to better optimise the martial arts training regimens, by focusing skill development in areas and skills specific suited to counter those of the opponent. For example, if a fighter is chiefly a striker or boxer, but their opponent is a highly skilled Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioner, they will train for takedown defence and escapes from various grappling positions. Additional considerations Training camps also function to help a fighter cut weight prior to the weigh-in. This entails optimising a nutritional program, and physically and emotionally preparing a fighter for the weight cutting process, if necessary. Notable training camps See List of professional MMA training camps for a comprehensive list. The following is a list of the most notable MMA training camps, most of which are run by ex-professional MMA athletes: == Team sports ==

offensive linemen at a training camp. Professional teams competing in most sports have training camps, generally prior to the start of the season. These training camps provide a set time in which a team can develop their skills, as well as improve their cohesiveness and strategies. Structure Training camps can take place for up to several months prior to a season start. In some professional competitions, such as rugby union, players may already be training and competing in different competitions, and therefore do not require a lengthy training camp. Highly established and wealthy teams often have their training camps at their own personalised training facility, often in their local region. Alternatively, weather patterns or other factors may inhibit training, so the training camps are held in locations with more suitable weather. In some sports, especially water, beach, and winter sports, training requires specific conditions or venues, and so teams will travel to a suitable facility to conduct their training camp. Managers and coaches often recruit additional coaches and players to join training camps to provide new exercises and opponents for stimulating and challenging training. Some professional teams have a practice squad, who are players who are not actively competing, but are solely on the team to help facilitate training. These players are often in the practice squad with the aim of eventually being included in the main competitive team. While different sports obviously have significant differences in their day-to-day training routines, the general structure is similar between most team sports. Teams typically use scheduled training cycles, which may include training for aerobic and anaerobic exercise, speed training, and team-building exercises. In sports such as basketball and futsal, teams often have training for strategic situational plays. In this training segment, they will practise cued strategies and movements in preparation for a particular response from their opponents. Additional considerations Training camps can also have a significant focus on team bonding and cohesiveness. Coaches will also incorporate routine bonding and trust building exercises, in order to improve the team’s mentality and cohesiveness. In some instances, coaches or managers will devise bonding exercises which fail, and can be detrimental to team performance. Training camps can also be used to study competing teams tactics and play styles, and devise strategies to effectively combat those tactics. ==Examples==

• Spring training in baseball • G4's Training Camp • Boot camp • Citizens Military Training Camp • Camp Bullis, Camp Blanding, many more • Terrorist training camp • Afghan training camp • :Category:Afghan training camps • List of professional MMA training camps ==References==