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in this guide you’ll learn
all the methods, tecniques
and secrets used by the legends of this sport one by one. Mike tyson, Khabib, Bivol and so on, are often referred to as "talented" fighters. God gave them the capabilities to become WorldClass, (just like He did to you) but it is the unconcious work during their childhood that made them the greats of their game. Training barefoot, being out in the sun all day, eating in seasoned non processed food, away from artificial light, not enforcing the wrong fascial patterns through weightlifting, always in flow state, and so on. This is what made them creative and stand out. This is why most kids that "top" countries like the U.S and unfortunately grow in poverty, are still better than the youth produced by England. You need to regain your freedom, your passion, your joy. what you are going to learn: -fighting with instinct -flow state -mental training -fascia training -working with nature -nutrition -hormones optimization -adrenaline -individual fighting training -strength training In the world of fighting, instinctive fight can be the difference between an average fighter and a true maestro in the ring. Instinct training involves tapping into the power of the subconscious mind, which operates at incredible speeds, approximately 2 million times faster than the conscious mind. This lightning-fast processing allows fighters to make split-second decisions, react instinctively to changing game situations, and perform movements with unparalleled speed and precision. But It is very important that your instinctive decision is the right one in the ring. This is why it is important to train your instincts. Having the right instincts is critical for fighters, as it directly impacts their decision-making, creativity, and adaptability in the ring. Training instincts enables fighters to: • Increase Speed and Unpredictability: Instinctive fighters are more unpredictable to their opponents, making it difficult to anticipate their next moves. • Improve Reaction Time: Instinct training helps fighters develop lightning-fast reactions, enabling them to respond swiftly to changes in the fight. • Enhance Creativity: Instinctive fight often leads to moments of brilliance and creativity. fighters with well- honed instincts can envision and execute audacious mouvement that catch opponents off guard. Instinct training involves various exercises and drills aimed at sharpening the subconscious decision-making processes. These exercises focus on enhancing spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and rapid motor responses. By regularly practicing instinctual fight, fighters can fine-tune their subconscious mind to perform optimally under pressure FREESTYLE FIGHTING Find an open space and fight around an unrestricted area for 30 seconds giving your maximal effort. Try different skills and body feints as fast as possible. Imagine your opponent coming at you from different directions. This works on your creativity, reactions, agility, and tight Do This For A Minimum Of 15 Minutes. MAX SPEED CLOSE FIGHTING fight across the length of a ring as fast as possible. The focus here is to keep a high speed with various close attacks for better striking. Use all strikes. Do This At Least 10 times across the ring. Take breaks in between when needed. Do Both Barefoot And With the shoes To Keep It Balanced. PARTNER 1v1 Put your freestyle fighting to the test. Create a small square with a partner. Do the same as in freestyle fighting except against a real fighter. Do any skills and allow your instincts to take over. Does not matter if you mess up, this will also develop your unconscious mind. fight keepaway in this style for 5 minutes of maximum intensity. Repeat 3 times. Take long breaks if necessary Speed & Combo Control Start at one end of your training space (like a gym or mat). Shadowbox as you move across the space, starting at a jogging pace and throwing as many light punches, jabs, and feints as possible. Count them. Repeat the drill but increase your speed with each round. Aim to keep the same number of strikes, focusing on close control of your strikes, footwork, and combinations. End each set with maximum speed and precise control over each movement. Complete two sets per stance (orthodox and southpaw). Evade & Attack Drill You’ll need two partners: one as a feeder and one as a defender. Have the feeder simulate an attack (like throwing jabs, crosses, or hooks). The defender starts 20 ft away from you. Your goal is to slip or block the incoming strike, then instantly drive forward and pressure the defender with your strikes and footwork. This will force the defender to backpedal. Implement previous shadowboxing techniques, mixing speed and control while attacking. 7 reps is 1 set. Complete 2 sets for each stance. Flow Fighting Drill Start in the middle of your training area. Shadowbox at a high pace, simulating a real fight. Use instincts to drive unpredictable combinations. Mix in punches, kicks, or even takedown feints (depending on your fight style). Focus on constant movement: cutting angles, circling, and attacking from different levels (body, head). Aim to finish with high-level combinations or fight-ending strikes (visualize your target). Practice for 30 minutes or until you fatigue. Reaction & Pivot Drill Stand 5-10 ft from a wall or bag. Throw light jabs or hooks against the wall. On the 5th punch, pivot and turn with a defensive move (like a slip, roll, or side step). After turning, freestyle for 10 seconds by throwing different combinations with your weak side (e.g., if you're orthodox, throw from southpaw). Complete 2 sets per stance. Catch & Counter Drill Adaptation: Stand 5-10 ft from the wall. Start by lightly striking the wall with jabs or quick touches. On the 10th strike, visualize an opponent's attack coming in (the wall represents your opponent's jab or strike). “Catch” the imaginary strike by blocking or parrying, then immediately counter with a fast combination and turn into a defensive move. After countering, freestyle for 10 seconds, focusing on weak- side combinations. Complete 3 reps for each stance. Combo to Finish Drill Adaptation: Set up a small goal or focus pad about 30 ft away. Start by lightly shadowboxing with both stances for 20 seconds, incorporating freestyle movements (feints, footwork, and various strikes). Transition into an attacking sequence: imagine engaging an opponent, then close the distance with maximum-speed strikes, ending with a decisive finishing move (a knockout punch, a kick, or a takedown setup). Do this 10 times per stance. General Focus: Instinct and Flow: Just like in the original drills, emphasize fighting with instinct rather than overthinking. Let your body adapt and react to imagined threats naturally. Speed and Control: Work on maintaining high speed without sacrificing accuracy or form, especially when transitioning between attacks, defense, and footwork. Weak-Side Training: Ensure you work on both orthodox and southpaw stances to develop a well-rounded fighting game. those are really good drills to train your instincts, but the best one that you need to focus on is FREE FLOW FIGHTING as i always say. As fighters embrace instinct training, they can unlock their true potential in the ring, making them formidable opponents and indispensable assets. Cultivating the correct instincts through targeted training allows fighters to flourish, adapt, and thrive in the dynamic and fast-paced world of fighting. Entering FLOW STATE (commonly known as THE ZONE) is the most optimal way to fight. Almost every fighter has experienced this state at least once, where everything feels natural, effortless, and instinctive. You move automatically, as if you're on autopilot, fully immersed in the task. In fighting, reaching flow state allows you to perform at your peak, reacting to your opponent without conscious effort. But how does this state happen? This guide will show you how flow state is triggered in fighting and how you can learn to enter it at will. To achieve flow state in a fight, you need to focus on three essential components: 1. Challenge/Enjoyment Balance 2. Anxiety Relief 3. Staying in the Present Moment Flow state is impossible if you are overly anxious, unfocused, or not enjoying what you’re doing. You must engage fully, merge with the moment, and allow your actions to flow naturally. Challenging Yourself
Let’s start with the Challenge
aspect of the “Challenge/Enjoyment Balance.” Think of a time when you faced an opponent who was too tough —it likely made you feel overwhelmed and frustrated. On the other hand, fighting an opponent who is too easy can feel boring, which also prevents you from getting fully engaged. Your brain needs the right level of difficulty to release enough dopamine to keep you locked into the moment. How to Control the Challenge
While you can’t always control
the difficulty of your opponent, you can control how you perceive the challenge. Often, fighters don’t enter flow because of negative self-talk—they make the opponent seem bigger or more skilled in their minds than they really are. Instead of seeing a tough opponent as a threat, shift your mindset to see the challenge as something to enjoy. Positive Self-Talk in Combat
When you're up against a tough
opponent or a challenging fight, self-talk is crucial. Pay attention to your internal dialogue: Are you telling yourself you can win, or are you doubting your abilities? Negative thoughts like "I'm not good enough" will sabotage your performance and keep you from reaching flow. Positive self-talk, like "I am skilled, I can handle this" will help you stay in the moment and give you a fighting chance, no matter how strong the opposition seems. The Power of Belief
Your subconscious mind is
powerful. If you constantly tell yourself that you are a capable, strong fighter, your mind will start to believe it and act accordingly. You don’t need to share these beliefs with anyone else—keep them private, humble, and personal, but repeat them to yourself often. Find a quiet space and sit down without distractions. Close your eyes and let your thoughts wander. Label each thought as positive or negative. For each negative thought, transform it into a positive one. For example, if you think, “I didn’t train well today,” change it to, “I did my best, and I will be even better tomorrow.” Reinforce your positive thoughts with confidence-boosting affirmations. Practicing this for just five minutes a day can slowly rewire your subconscious mind, making you more resilient in a fight. Fighting is not just about brute force or technical skill—it’s about enjoying the process. Many fighters lose the enjoyment of combat because of external factors like injuries, bad experiences, or mental fatigue. But to enter flow state, you need to find joy in fighting again. The key lies in dopamine, the brain’s natural reward chemical. Resetting Dopamine
Over time, your brain's dopamine
receptors can become dull due to "cheap dopamine" activities, like mindlessly scrolling through social media or watching TV. To fix this, try a dopamine fast—cut out all forms of quick dopamine hits for a week. Focus on tough tasks, train hard, and allow yourself to be bored. This will reset your dopamine receptors and make fighting feel more rewarding. Building Healthy Dopamine Habits
After resetting, you can rebuild
your dopamine levels with healthy activities like socializing in person, trying new sports, and eating well. Avoid cheap dopamine triggers and engage in more fulfilling, real-world experiences. Foods like raw honey, pineapple, watermelon, and coconut water can naturally boost your dopamine levels. We’ve all felt nervous before a big fight. Whether it’s fear of failure, fear of the opponent, or high expectations, anxiety can block you from reaching flow state. However, this nervousness is controllable. Breathing for Anxiety Relief One technique for reducing anxiety is double breathing. Take a long, deep breath in through your nose, followed by a second quick inhale, and then exhale through the nose. Repeat this cycle five times. This oxygenates your muscles and triggers a more relaxed, focused mental state, perfect for fighting. Confidence is a game-changer in combat. Testosterone, the hormone responsible for drive and energy, plays a significant role in a fighter’s confidence. You can boost your testosterone through exercises like calisthenics or by taking control of situations in your everyday life. Boosting Testosterone Naturally
Avoiding certain habits like lack
of sleep or frequent ejaculation can help preserve your testosterone levels. Semen retention and getting quality sleep both play a huge role in keeping testosterone high. You can also eat testosterone- boosting foods like organ meats, grass-fed beef, oysters, and raw honey. The key to flow state is living in the present moment. When you let go of worries about the past or future, you give yourself the ability to react in the fight. Here are some methods to help you stay in the present during a match: THE NEWBORN METHOD
Before a fight, close your eyes,
take a few deep breaths, and then open them, engaging your senses like a newborn experiencing the world for the first time. Focus on what you see, hear, smell, and feel for one minute. This increases your awareness, making you more present in the fight. 1-SECOND METHOD
Sit down before training and
remind yourself that every second you're living right now is something you will never get back. This mentality forces you to focus on the present, which helps you cherish and control each second during the fight. When you’re in the ring or octagon, don’t overthink. Let your instincts guide you. Your subconscious already knows how to fight; it’s your training in action. Trust it, and let your first gut reactions lead your moves. This is how top fighters like Anderson Silva and Israel Adesanya fight with flow and instinct combined. Once you’ve experienced flow state in a fight, identify the emotions you felt and associate them with a mental cue. This cue could be a small action or a phrase you repeat in your head. For example, twist your fingers and recall the flow state sensations to help trigger it in future fights. To trigger flow state in fighting, you must first manage your anxiety, balance your dopamine levels, and build your confidence. Only then can you consistently access flow. Use the methods in this guide to enter that state where your mind is calm, your body is automatic, and your fighting becomes effortless. The mind plays an even bigger role in combat sports than most realize. Your mentality is everything. It’s a key factor that separates the best fighters from the rest. Once you learn how to control your mind, you’ll be able to stay composed in high- pressure moments, harness your inner motivation, enter the flow state, and use your subconscious mind to your advantage in the ring or octagon. There will be days when the drive to train or fight feels absent. Some may say this is where discipline comes in, and while that’s true, motivation is still essential. From now on, think of motivation like a switch. Imagine if you could flip it on to its maximum power before every training session or fight. Imagine the fighter you could become! Great athletes use this method constantly. Just like Michael Jordan in basketball, fighters can create scenarios in their minds to fuel their desire. Jordan once imagined a rival insulted him, even though it never happened, and used that to push himself to the top. In fighting, you can do the same. If insults drive you, imagine your opponent said, “You’ll never be on my level, no matter how hard you try,” and then go out there to prove them wrong. Draw from things people have said to you in the past, using those words to ignite the fire inside of you when you step into the ring or cage. This method applies to training and sparring. Constantly training out of obligation can lead to burnout. This approach not only pushes you to complete tasks, but it also rewards you with satisfaction and releases dopamine, giving you a sense of accomplishment. Here, you create scenarios in your head, like, “If I get through this training session, I can reward myself with rest,” or “If I finish this set of drills, I’ll have earned that extra relaxation time.” This method is all about putting things into perspective, focusing on what you want in the moment, and mixing that with your long-term goals as a fighter. Dopamine is crucial for motivation. Low dopamine levels can lead to burnout, often caused by indulging in fake dopamine sources like excessive social media scrolling or other distractions. That’s why you may struggle to enjoy the simple things like light training or technique work. Resetting your dopamine receptors is key for optimizing your focus and drive in combat sports. Start by dopamine fasting. Get comfortable with boredom. Limit phone use and distractions. Spend time reflecting. Once you reset, boost your dopamine naturally with sun exposure, cold baths, and tracking your achievements. Finish your training tasks from start to end, and don’t leave drills unfinished. Anxiety is the intense, excessive worry that builds up before a fight. You might fear messing up in front of your coach, team, or fans. This is all in your head— imagined negative outcomes created out of fear. This fight-or-flight response is natural, activated in moments of high pressure. But remember, no matter the outcome of the fight, life will go on. Trust in the process, leave your worries aside, and focus on what you know how to do best. If you’re constantly thinking about worst-case scenarios —“What if I get knocked out?”— why not reverse that thinking? Ask yourself, “What if I land that knockout punch?” Give yourself a fair shot. Don’t assume defeat before you’ve even stepped into the ring. You gain nothing from doubting yourself. It doesn’t hurt to believe in your success. And if you don’t win, that’s okay—there’s always another fight. Sometimes, simply acknowledging the skills of your opponent can make you nervous. Your mind might exaggerate their abilities, creating fear. But remember, they are human, just like you. They are not invincible. You are capable of doing just as much, if not more, than they are. As Hebrews 13:6 says, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Studies show that deep, slow breathing helps relieve anxiety and tension in demanding moments. Breathing exercises like the Wim Hof Method can relax your mind and body before a fight. Another helpful trick is double breathing. When anxiety hits, oxygen intake decreases. Combat this by inhaling deeply through the nose, taking an extra breath in before releasing it. This controlled breathing calms your anxiety, allowing you to regain focus. Lastly, getting your mind off the fight by engaging in other hobbies or relaxing activities can help keep you fresh before stepping into the ring. Many fighters also pray or meditate before matches, leaving their doubts behind and focusing on the present moment. INTRO TO FASCIA
Fascia is a thin casing of
connective tissue that surrounds and holds every organ, blood vessel, bone, nerve fiber, and muscle in place." (Hopkins Medicine) Think of fascia as a giant spider web. It holds everything together, allowing fighters to move efficiently and with more power. Fascia's Role in Fighting
Fascia is an interconnected web
of connective tissue made up of collagen and water. These connections determine how you execute movements. This is why two fighters can throw the same punch, but one may feel more activation in their core and shoulders, while the other feels it in their biceps. Why Fascia Training is Essential for Fighters
The goal of fascia training for
fighters is to become glute and ab-dominant, which enables you to fatigue less and generate more power in every punch, kick, and movement. Glute dominance allows for faster movement, more explosive strikes, and better overall endurance during a fight. Building strong fascial connections from the feet to the glutes will maximize your fighting performance. Fascial Adhesions and Their Impact on Fighting
Fascia can also clump up and
stick to itself, creating adhesions. These adhesions can result from weightlifting, limited mobility, or repetitive movement patterns, which fighters frequently experience. Picture it like a shirt—if one part is wrinkled, the whole garment pulls. In your fascial system, if you have an adhesion in your shoulder, it could affect the efficiency of your movements, even down to your footwork. How to Roll Out Adhesions
To combat these adhesions, take
10-15 minutes with a spikey ball to roll out your entire body, focusing on the neck, shoulders, back, IT band, calves, and the soles of your feet. When you hit tender spots, apply more pressure. This may be painful initially, but you will adapt. Always roll out in the mornings and after training sessions to optimize your movement and recovery. The first step is restoring foot function, which is often lost due to modern footwear and lack of mobility. The following two exercises are crucial. They teach you how to apply tension from your foot up through your body, critical for fighters who need quick footwork and powerful strikes. Joint Retracts with Cloth
Place a towel or cloth on the floor
and rest the ball of your foot on it. Elevate your heel about 1-2 inches, keeping your toes straight. Now, start retracting your toes. Initially, this may be difficult, but after a few days, it will become easier. This exercise helps to regain toe function and improves your ability to apply fascial tension, which is essential for balance and stability in fighting stances. Do this for 3 minutes per foot every day for two weeks. Toe Retract + Curl
Once you can retract your toes
without the towel, practice first retracting and then curling your toes down. This activates the foot's nerves and strengthens the connection from foot to core. Do this for 3 minutes on each foot to keep developing fascial tension. Standing Retracted Hold
Now, let's apply fascial tension to
a standing position. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Retract your toes and lift your heels about 1-2 inches off the floor. Bend your knees slightly. Hold this position for 30 seconds. Start with 2 sets a day and gradually build up to 5 minutes, increasing by 30 seconds every few days. Over time, you should feel the activation in your glutes and core. Single Leg Retracted Hold
To enhance your balance, do the
same exercise on one leg, using a wall for support if needed. Stand on one foot and retract your toes. Lift your heel off the ground and bend your knee slightly. Hold for 1-3 minutes per leg. You should feel tension through your arch and glutes, improving stability for footwork in the ring. Retracted Hops
This exercise adds movement.
Stand on both feet, retract your toes, and lift your heels. Hop softly from side to side, keeping your heels off the ground. Relax your upper body as you hop. Hop for 2-5 minutes. You’ll feel the work in your glutes, which helps develop explosive movements for evasions and strikes. Single Leg Retracted Hop
For greater challenge and
balance: Stand on one foot, retract your toes, and lift your heel. Hop from side to side, maintaining control. Hop for 2-5 minutes per leg. Over time, this exercise will strengthen your glutes and enhance your footwork for dodging punches and moving quickly inside the ring. Retracted Triangles
Balance on one foot while
retracting your toes, then use your free leg to draw a triangle. This will help improve stability and movement control essential for combinations and footwork in fighting. Once you feel strong engagement in your glutes and abs from the previous exercises, progress to the advanced movements below to maximize your athleticism. Retracted Lunge Hold Get into a lunge position: Retract your toes on both feet. Squeeze the arch in your back foot. Lift your front foot's heel and hold. This move trains fascial tension while in a fighting stance. Hold for up to 2 minutes, repeating for 2 sets. Pushup ISO Hold Get into a pushup position, shoulder-width apart. Retract your toes and create a slight arch with your hands. Lower into a pushup and hold for as long as possible. This isometric hold strengthens your core and stability, important for clinch work and defense. Repeat 3 sets. These exercises incorporate explosive movement and fascial reeling, essential for generating quick power. Retracted Lunge Jumps Start in a lunge position with your toes retracted. Jump up and switch legs mid-air, landing softly without letting your heels touch the ground. Complete 10 reps for 1 set, and do 2-3 sets. Working with nature is using God's beautiful creation in order to boost your health, align your circadian rhythm, and boost your fighting performance. This can be done through methods like grounding, climate adaptation, water source, ocean swimming, sunbathing, etc! Working with nature can boost testosterone, release the right hormones at the right amounts and time, optimize your mitochondria and metabolism, improve gut health, and lower inflammation for both post- training and injury recovery! Humans, like any other living organism, need the sun. The modern lifestyle forced us to be indoors and under artificial light that tricks our brain into burning out our cortisol and serotonin release. Modern medicine has also tricked society into thinking the sun is bad for us. Wearing sunscreen (which is dangerous), sunglasses, and even avoiding the sun is wrongly recommended. Our ancestors were outside for most of their lives, building tolerance to the sun. We, on the other hand, get sunburnt due to our consumption of seed oils and the fact that we aren't used to sun exposure. Building tolerance without artificial protectants is the beginning of your transformation. Start off by cutting out seed oils and processed foods from your diet. These highly contribute to your probability of getting sunburnt and even cancer. Once you do this, start building tolerance. Building tolerance to the sun is crucial to get the benefits of the sun without burning or using artificial chemicals that disrupt our body. Start off by watching the sunrise every day. This wakes up your body and mind, allowing for serotonin and dopamine to be released correctly for more energy. The morning sun's rays are also less strong, allowing for a slow buildup. Watching the sunset is also recommended. This signals your body to start releasing melatonin, the sleeping hormone. The sun's rays are also not that strong during this time, thus recommended for building tolerance. Work your way through to the stronger rays. The sun's rays are usually stronger during midday. Work your way up, adding 30+ minutes to your sun exposure until you can handle the midday sun without burning. Take breaks from the sun adequately. To prevent burns, cut out seed oils from your diet as previously mentioned. Replace these with healthy fats like coconut oil, raw butter, and truly virgin olive oil. All these help create that internal sunscreen. If you do end up sunburnt, treat it by taking a break from the sun and slowing down on the buildup. Apply coconut oil or aloe vera. Higher Testosterone: The sun increases fertility and hormone production, especially when tanning testicles. Aligned Circadian Rhythm: This is your body's internal clock. Light (has to be natural) allows for proper hormone release. Better Sleep: Watching the sunset enhances melatonin production. Vitamin D: UV light increases these levels, which helps with calcium intake, thus benefiting bones and joints. Anxiety and Depression: The sun boosts your overall mood, and can help combat anxiety and depression. Grounding is the method of making direct skin contact with any kind of earthly surface. When doing this, your body starts to reverse inflammation almost instantly. According to Josh Tickell in The Earthing Movie, "Earth has a slight negative charge... negative twenty millivolts. And when that connects with your body, it actually calms the body, it allows our bodies to heal and it lowers inflammation." Grounding can reduce inflammation naturally, as previously stated. This helps with the repair and recovery process of muscles, which is critical after intense fighting training. This also relaxes the body and can even speed up the healing of wounds. When anxious, try grounding. It is shown to calm the nervous system during stressful moments and relax both the body and the mind. Find natural terrain (grass, sand, dirt). Take off your shoes and socks and step onto it. Walk around for 20 minutes every day. Wash feet after grounding to prevent infections or fungus. Magnesium, an element the human body heavily relies on, is found in ocean and sea water. Magnesium plays a role in the production of energy from the mitochondria. Artificial light and EMF's deplete our magnesium sources, making it more likely to be tired and stressed. Go for a swim. Magnesium can be absorbed through the skin. This allows you to maintain higher levels of energy for performance, as well as more mental clarity because stress is reduced. Our bodies were meant to adapt to climate. This strengthens the immune system, boosts the mitochondria, and improves metabolism. In modern lifestyle, one can sit at the same temperature year-round. This makes it more likely to get sick, have less energy, and a slower metabolism. Go outside as much as possible. Go on nature walks daily. Get sun exposure and adapt to the heat, as well as dress up and get used to the winter cold. Your body was meant to be outside. To work with nature, you also have to remove the artificial. This means EMF's, blue light, and an indoor lifestyle. Doing this can reduce the chance of depression, boost overall mood, improve hormone release, and even prevent cancer. Blue light is artificial light that is most prominent in screens. This disrupts adequate hormone release, which can mess with your sleep and energy levels. Avoid your phone and TV as much as possible, especially at night. Get real light (sunlight) instead. This is electromagnetic field exposure that is transmitted from AirPods, phones, Wi-Fi routers, etc. These also disrupt hormone production and can cause cancer. They also deplete energy sources and can cause headaches. Avoid using AirPods because they can cause brain damage. Use wired headphones instead. Disconnect Wi-Fi routers at night and limit screens for better sleep. Modern nutrition is flawed. The diets constantly recommended to fighters are full of gut- damaging, processed, pasteurized, and nutrient- altered foods that either harm the body or aren't as beneficial as the foods our bodies truly need. While the goal of protein powder is to repair and build muscle, all types are heated and pasteurized, either weakening or killing the amino acids available. Though it may work, it doesn’t provide other vital nutrients necessary to digest and absorb it correctly. This is why you should obtain your protein from red meats, organ meats, and seafood. Natural nutrition means eating how you were meant to eat. No processed foods, drinks, or contaminated tap water. This includes raw and "alive nutrient" foods, natural spring water, and in-season nutrition. WE NEED TO EAT LIKE HOW OUR ANCESTORS ATE! Decline in testosterone, increase in diseases, gut damage, acne, etc., are all rooted in a bad diet. As previously stated, even some diets considered healthy nowadays aren’t. Eating like our ancestors helps fighters balance hormones, reduce the chances of diseases, boost metabolism, and improve performance in the ring. All this while also making you feel good! In order to eat naturally, you have to pay attention to the source of your food. Grocery store eggs aren’t the same as pasture-raised, free-range eggs from non-hormone-treated chickens. The same goes for meats—get your beef and milk from pasture-raised, non- hormone-treated cows. Organic local farmers’ markets make this easier! Eating in-season is the method of eating foods that naturally grow in your area during the specific season you are in. Our ancestors did this, and fighters can benefit as well. The foods that grow during a season have nutrients that we might be lacking, especially during intense training periods or when recovery is needed. Raw foods preserve enzymes, vitamins, and nutrients that help digestion and boost your health that would otherwise be lost during cooking. Although this may seem risky at first, and you might think it puts you at risk of disease, it won’t if you get it from the right sources. This means milk and organ meats from grass-fed, non- hormone-treated cows, and orange eggs from free-range, non-hormone-treated chickens. If you’re unsure about the source, DO NOT EAT RAW FOODS. Protein and saturated fat are the base of the diet for fighters because they help with building blocks, antioxidants, and trace minerals. They also support the health of neurotransmitters, which is important for focus and decision-making during fights. As mentioned earlier, obtain your protein from red meats, organ meats, and seafood. These are the most complete sources of protein. They contain multiple amino acids essential for optimal fighting performance. This is also why relying on plants for protein IS NOT RECOMMENDED. Focus on getting the full amino acid profile by eating raw/cooked red meat (mostly liver), bone broth, bone meats, raw orange eggs, organ meats, and marrow. Protein sources: Beef liver, red meats, beef organ meats, oysters, shrimp, crab, lobster, eggs. Do NOT avoid carbs. Diets like Keto don't provide enough energy for fighters. They put your body under intense stress, leading to lower testosterone levels. Eating the right carbs allows for more energy during training and fights. Fructose restores glycogen stores faster than any other carb, making fruit the best option. Get your carbs from fruits, berries, raw honey, molasses, maple syrup, and raw dairy. For meals, get your carbs from white rice, potatoes, and sweet potatoes. These are the cleanest carb sources. Avoid grains like oats and gluten, and stay away from processed foods like pasta and bread, which damage the gut and make digestion harder. Get your healthy fats from raw butter, raw milk, coconut oil, and truly virgin olive oil. Avoid seed oils at all costs. Avoid nuts and nut butters because the body can’t digest them, which damages the gut over time. Superfoods are packed with the most nutrients and vitamins available. These can enhance performance through better energy, recovery, and bone and joint health. They also boost cognitive function, which is vital for fighters who need quick reflexes and mental clarity. Liver is a superfood. It’s the most nutrient-dense food, containing an insane amount of vitamins and minerals. Eat liver three times a week for a great source of complete protein and to address any deficiencies. It also promotes muscle repair, which is crucial after fights or hard sparring sessions. Raw honey contains chrysin, a compound that promotes testosterone, provides antioxidants, protects the brain, and reduces inflammation. It’s also a great carb for a quick energy boost before fights. Raw milk helps the body produce more lactase, which breaks down lactose. It boosts testosterone and metabolism and is a great source of protein. Drink it after training sessions for recovery. Sweet potatoes are clean carbohydrates. They’re great for replenishing lost stores after training or fights and should be eaten 4 hours before a fight for sustained energy. Watermelon is an excellent recovery food. It has been proven to reduce muscle soreness and recovery time. Watermelon also hydrates the body before and after fights due to its electrolytes. Orange juice is an elite hydrator. Drinking a glass in the mornings boosts your immune system and promotes stomach acid production, making digestion easier. Drink it after fights to rehydrate. Bone marrow is high in collagen, glycine, and saturated fat. This helps fighters build fascial connections, recover from injuries or fatigue faster, and strengthen the body overall. Red meats are a great source of protein, high in antioxidants, and they promote gut health when eaten raw. They’re also great for boosting testosterone. Along with orange juice, coconut water is also an elite hydrator. It’s great before fights due to its electrolytes and is a healthy alternative to water or sugary sports drinks like Gatorade. Testosterone is vital for fighters, as it helps with muscle growth, strength, and recovery, while also boosting aggression, competitiveness, and mental sharpness. It plays a crucial role in the ability to generate power and maintain endurance during intense bouts Higher testosterone levels are associated with better overall physical performance, increased bone density, and faster recovery times. To naturally increase testosterone, fighters should focus on strength training, especially compound lifts like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. These exercises stimulate the release of testosterone and promote muscle growth High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is another powerful tool for boosting testosterone. HIIT incorporates short, intense bursts of exercise followed by rest, mimicking the energy demands of fighting. Sleep is another critical factor in maintaining optimal testosterone levels. Studies show that getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night ensures proper hormone regulation and recovery. Fighters should also focus on consuming healthy fats such as those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil, which are necessary for hormone production Foods rich in zinc (like oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds) and vitamin D (such as salmon, eggs, and fortified foods) also play a key role in increasing testosterone levels. Chronic stress, however, can lower testosterone by raising cortisol levels. Managing stress through techniques like meditation, breathing exercises, or even light physical activity can help maintain balance between these two hormones. Growth hormone is essential for tissue repair, fat metabolism, and muscle development. For fighters, GH enhances recovery from strenuous workouts and improves body composition by increasing lean muscle mass and reducing fat. This hormone also plays a significant role in enhancing stamina, allowing fighters to maintain high energy levels during prolonged fights. The majority of GH is produced during deep sleep, especially in the first few hours of the night. Prioritizing sleep hygiene is key to boosting natural GH production. Intense exercise, particularly strength training and sprinting, can also stimulate GH release. Explosive movements like plyometrics or heavy lifting at low repetitions activate this hormone. To further enhance growth hormone levels, intermittent fasting or time-restricted eating can be beneficial. These dietary strategies have been shown to boost GH release, aiding in fat loss and muscle retention. Combining proper sleep, intense exercise, and smart nutrition will maximize a fighter’s growth hormone output. Cortisol, commonly known as the stress hormone, can work against a fighter’s goals when chronically elevated. While short bursts of cortisol are necessary for dealing with acute stress (such as during a fight), persistently high levels can lead to muscle breakdown, fat storage, weakened immune function, and impaired recovery. Managing cortisol is essential for staying at peak performance. Fighters can reduce cortisol by incorporating relaxation techniques into their routine. Activities like yoga, deep breathing exercises, or even mindfulness practice can significantly lower stress levels Adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and structured rest days are equally important for keeping cortisol in check. Avoiding overtraining is crucial, as pushing the body too hard without proper recovery can lead to chronically elevated cortisol. Insulin plays a key role in regulating blood sugar and energy availability. For fighters, maintaining stable insulin levels ensures consistent energy during both training and competition. Insulin sensitivity can be enhanced through regular physical activity, especially strength training and cardiovascular exercises, which help the body better utilize glucose for energy. To optimize insulin function, fighters should focus on eating balanced meals that include complex carbohydrates (like whole grains and vegetables), lean proteins (such as chicken, fish, or beans), and healthy fats This combination helps prevent spikes and crashes in blood sugar, which could negatively affect energy levels and performance. Timing carbohydrate intake around workouts can also improve performance and recovery. Balancing hormones is crucial for fighters to optimize their performance, recovery, and overall physical and mental well-being. By implementing strategies to naturally increase testosterone, growth hormone, and adrenaline, while managing cortisol and insulin levels, fighters can enhance their training, fight longer, and recover faster. Hormones are powerful tools when harnessed properly, helping fighters reach new levels of strength, endurance, and resilience. In high-stakes situations like combat sports, controlling and harnessing adrenaline can be the difference between success and failure. Adrenaline, often referred to as the "fight or flight" hormone, is released by the adrenal glands in response to physical or emotional stress. It sharpens your senses, increases your heart rate, boosts blood flow to muscles, and enhances strength and stamina The surge of adrenaline isn’t just an automatic response that happens under stress; with practice, it can be intentionally triggered to heighten your readiness for a fight. While the adrenaline rush can be beneficial, improper timing or excess adrenaline can also cause negative effects like tunnel vision, poor judgment, or fatigue if not managed properly.
Therefore, understanding how to
purposefully stimulate adrenaline before a fight—and how to control its release—is a skill that every serious fighter should develop. Before a fight, consider performing a mini-HIIT session that involves sprints, burpees, or shadowboxing. For instance, you could do 20-second sprints followed by 10 seconds of rest, repeating this for about 5-10 minutes. The key is to push your body hard enough to stimulate adrenaline but not so much that you exhaust yourself before stepping into the ring. This pre- fight warm-up will elevate your heart rate and trigger the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for releasing adrenaline. This rapid intensity increase signals to your body that it's time to prepare for action, ensuring that when the bell rings, you're operating at peak adrenaline levels. Few things can shock the body into releasing adrenaline faster than exposure to extreme cold. Whether it's a cold shower, an ice bath, or even splashing ice-cold water on your face, cold exposure activates your body's natural survival mechanisms. When you’re exposed to cold, your body immediately responds by releasing adrenaline to help maintain core temperature and keep your body alert. You can incorporate cold exposure into your pre-fight ritual by taking a cold shower just before heading to the fight venue or dipping your hands or face into ice water for a few moments. The cold will not only jolt your body into releasing adrenaline but also heighten your mental clarity, helping you stay sharp and focused in the crucial moments before the fight. Controlled breathing can directly influence your nervous system and trigger adrenaline production. One particularly effective method is inspired by the Wim Hof Method, which involves hyperventilation and breath-holding to activate the body's stress response. This method not only increases adrenaline but also boosts oxygen levels in your blood, giving you a sense of heightened energy and alertness. Here’s how to practice this technique: Sit or lie down in a comfortable position. Inhale deeply and forcefully through your nose or mouth, filling your lungs completely. Exhale quickly and fully without pausing, doing this repeatedly for 30-40 breaths. On the last breath, exhale fully and hold your breath for as long as possible. Once you feel the need to breathe, inhale deeply and hold the breath for 15 seconds. Repeat this process 2-3 times. This technique not only increases oxygen flow but also stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in a surge of adrenaline. Practicing this before a fight can put you into an optimal state of focus and readiness. Music has an incredible ability to stir emotions, energize the mind, and trigger physiological responses like increased heart rate and adrenaline production. Many fighters have specific songs or playlists that help them get into the right mindset before a fight. Listening to high-energy music, particularly songs with fast tempos or aggressive tones, can stimulate adrenaline and prepare you mentally for battle. Pick songs that make you feel powerful, energized, or aggressive, and make them part of your pre-fight ritual. The repetition of using the same songs over time conditions your body to associate them with heightened adrenaline levels, so when the music plays, your body will naturally respond by ramping up its fight-or-flight response. The mind is a powerful tool in triggering adrenaline, especially when you use visualization techniques. By mentally rehearsing intense scenarios, imagining yourself in the fight, and visualizing success, your brain responds as though the event is actually happening, causing your body to release adrenaline in anticipation. To use visualization effectively: Close your eyes and imagine yourself in the ring, facing your opponent. Picture every detail vividly— your movements, the crowd, your opponent's attacks, and your responses. Focus on feelings of aggression, power, and victory. Envision yourself landing critical blows and defending with precision. The mental stress from these vivid images will prompt your brain to activate your fight-or- flight system, causing an adrenaline release that prepares you for the real battle. Visualization is not just about seeing success but also creating the emotional intensity that mimics the actual fight, helping you control your adrenaline. Adrenaline is often linked to feelings of aggression or fear. One way to tap into this natural response is by deliberately inducing aggression in yourself before the fight. Focus on thoughts or memories that anger or challenge you—past rivalries, personal conflicts, or even insults can act as powerful mental triggers for adrenaline release. Think of a time when someone disrespected you or when you overcame an obstacle that made you stronger. Use these memories to fuel your mindset before the fight, turning emotional energy into physical power. Aggression triggers can be a powerful tool, but it's essential to channel that aggression productively, maintaining focus on the task at hand rather than letting emotions control you. Caffeine is a well-known stimulant that increases alertness, focus, and energy by stimulating the central nervous system and boosting adrenaline production. A moderate dose of caffeine, about 30-45 minutes before your fight, can provide you with a quick energy boost, making you feel more awake and responsive. Coffee, tea, or pre-workout supplements that contain caffeine are commonly used by athletes to improve performance. However, it's crucial not to overdo it, as too much caffeine can cause jitteriness, anxiety, or an energy crash later in the fight. Rituals are powerful tools for preparing the mind and body for action. Fighters often develop specific pre-fight rituals that help them trigger adrenaline and enter the right mental state. These rituals can involve a combination of the techniques mentioned above—such as listening to music, doing quick bursts of exercise, or visualizing the fight—but the key is consistency. Over time, the repetition of your personal pre-fight routine conditions your body to respond with heightened adrenaline when you go through these actions. Whether it’s hitting mitts for a few minutes, shadowboxing, or even repeating a motivational mantra, having a set ritual builds a sense of familiarity and readiness, putting your mind and body in a peak state. While adrenaline can provide a powerful boost in focus, strength, and energy, overreliance or mismanagement can lead to significant downsides. Excessive adrenaline can cause early fatigue, making you burn out before the fight is over, and induce tunnel vision, narrowing your focus so much that you miss key aspects of the fight. It can also impair decision- making, leading to reckless actions, and result in emotional instability or excessive aggression, causing you to lose control and abandon strategy. that’s why i personally prefer flow state Speed Bag Drills Purpose: Improves hand-eye coordination, rhythm, and hand speed. Exercise: Hit the speed bag in quick, controlled bursts. Start with 30-second rounds and increase as you improve. Focus on smooth, rhythmic punches and minimizing rest between rounds. Shadowboxing with Focus on Speed Purpose: Builds hand speed, timing, and reflexes. Exercise: Perform shadowboxing rounds (2–3 minutes each) where you focus solely on throwing punches as quickly as possible while maintaining good form. Mix jabs, crosses, hooks, and uppercuts in rapid succession. Double-End Bag Work Purpose: Sharpens reflexes and accuracy, while boosting speed. Exercise: Use quick combinations (e.g., jab- cross-hook) to strike the double-end bag, aiming for quick, snapping punches. Focus on speed, not power. Maintain a fast pace for several rounds. Hand-Speed Ladder Purpose: Develops quick, explosive punches. Exercise: Stand in a boxing stance and throw a 1–2 combination (jab-cross) as fast as possible. Then, throw 3-punch, 4-punch, and 5- punch combinations with maximum speed. Work your way up to a 10-punch combo. Rest briefly, then repeat for 3– 5 rounds. Reaction Ball Purpose: Improves reflexes and reaction speed. Exercise: Use a small reaction ball or tennis ball. Drop it from head height and quickly catch it after it bounces once or twice. Alternate hands and increase speed over time. You can also throw it against a wall and catch it to enhance hand-eye coordination. Fast Mitt Work Purpose: Enhances speed, accuracy, and precision. Exercise: Have a coach or partner hold mitts for you, calling out rapid combinations (e.g., 1-2, 3-4, 1-2-3). Focus on snapping punches with speed and minimal pauses between punches. Do 3-minute rounds with 30-second breaks. Speed Intervals with Heavy Bag Purpose: Builds explosive power and speed in combinations. Exercise: Hit the heavy bag with 10-second intervals of maximum-speed combinations (jabs, crosses, hooks) followed by 10 seconds of rest. Repeat this cycle for 2–3 minutes per round. Resistance Band Punches Purpose: Builds speed and endurance in punches. Exercise: Attach light resistance bands to your wrists or waist and throw punches against the resistance. Focus on maintaining speed while the bands add resistance to your punches. Perform 2- to 3- minute rounds. Reflex Training with Partner Purpose: Sharpens reaction speed and defense. Exercise: Have a partner throw light punches at you, and practice dodging or parrying them quickly. You can also react with counterpunches, focusing on speed and quick reflexive responses. Quick Footwork Drills Purpose: Increases foot speed and agility. Exercise: Use a ladder drill or cones to practice quick in- and-out foot movements. Move laterally and forward/backward with speed, ensuring you're light on your feet. Combine this with shadowboxing to simulate real fighting conditions. Plyometric Punches Purpose: Builds explosive speed and power. Exercise: Throw punches using a medicine ball or weighted gloves. Perform plyometric push-ups in between combinations to increase explosive strength and speed in your arms. Slip Rope Drill Purpose: Improves head movement and timing. Exercise: Set up a rope at shoulder height across a room. Stand in your fighting stance and move along the rope, slipping under it by bending your knees and moving your head side to side (left-right). Focus on maintaining a good stance and footwork while slipping. You can add punches after each slip to simulate counterattacks. Pendulum Slip Purpose: Builds fluidity in head movement. Exercise: Stand in front of a mirror or without any equipment and imagine a straight punch coming toward you. Slip your head to the left, then to the right in a fluid pendulum motion. As you improve, increase the speed while maintaining control and balance. This helps develop rhythm and timing for slipping punches. Dodging Against the Wall Purpose: Improves reflexes and defensive head movement. Exercise: Stand about a foot away from a wall. Throw light punches at the wall while imagining counterpunches coming back at you. Slip, duck, or weave to avoid those imaginary punches, but be mindful of your position near the wall to simulate being trapped against the ropes or cage. Mirror Drill Purpose: Sharpens body movement and defense. Exercise: Stand in front of a mirror and throw punches at your own reflection while also visualizing your reflection throwing punches back. Slip, roll, or duck to avoid these "punches" while keeping your hands up. You can also incorporate footwork and combine offensive and defensive movements. Resistance Band Dodging Purpose: Builds strength and speed in defensive movements. Exercise: Attach a light resistance band to your waist or upper body, and have it secured behind you. Move side to side, practicing slips and weaves with the added resistance. Focus on keeping your head moving while maintaining balance and core strength. Dodge and Counter Purpose: Combines head movement with counterattacks. Exercise: In front of a mirror or heavy bag, practice dodging imaginary punches and immediately countering with fast punches (like a slip-right counter or roll-left hook). Focus on smooth transitions between dodging and countering to simulate real fight scenarios. Duck Under Hook Drill Purpose: Improves the ability to duck and roll under hooks. Exercise: While in your fighting stance, imagine your opponent throwing wide hooks. Bend your knees slightly and duck under the imaginary punch. Keep your hands up and eyes forward as you roll under the punch. This builds lower-body mobility and balance while dodging. Agility Ladder Dodging Drill Purpose: Increases foot speed and evasive agility. Exercise: Use an agility ladder on the ground. Move through the ladder using various footwork drills, like side steps or in-and-out movements. Simultaneously, practice slipping or ducking with each step to simulate dodging punches while staying mobile. Reaction Ball Dodging Purpose: Develops reflexes and evasive head movement. Exercise: Stand in a fighting stance and bounce a reaction ball (or tennis ball) off a wall. As the ball bounces back unpredictably, practice slipping or ducking out of the way as if you're avoiding punches. This helps simulate the erratic movement of a real opponent’s strikes. most important: -pull ups (weighted and explosive) -push ups (weighted and explosive) -dips (weighted and explosive) -squats (weighted and explosive) Deadlift to Overhead Press Purpose: Builds total body strength, focusing on posterior chain (back, glutes, hamstrings) and shoulders. Exercise: Start with a deadlift by lifting the barbell from the ground. As you stand up, transition into an overhead press by pushing the barbell overhead. Lower it back down to the ground and repeat. Perform 3–4 sets of 8–10 reps. Squat to Punching Purpose: Combines leg strength and punching power, focusing on explosive movement. Exercise: Perform a bodyweight or weighted squat. As you come up from the squat, throw a quick 1-2 punch (jab-cross) as fast as possible. Focus on maintaining balance and power in the punches. Do 3 sets of 10–12 reps. Pull-Up to Knee Raise Purpose: Strengthens upper body, core, and hip flexors for grappling and clinch work. Exercise: Perform a pull-up, and once your chin is above the bar, raise your knees towards your chest. Lower your knees and your body back down to the starting position. This works your lats, arms, abs, and hip flexors. Do 3 sets of 6–10 reps. Kettlebell Swing to Squat Press Purpose: Engages lower body, core, and shoulders for explosive strength. Exercise: Perform a kettlebell swing by driving your hips forward to swing the kettlebell up to chest height. As the kettlebell swings back down, squat and, as you come up from the squat, press the kettlebell overhead. This explosive movement works your entire body. Do 3 sets of 12–15 reps. Burpee to Pull-Up Purpose: Full-body explosive strength and endurance. Exercise: Start with a burpee. After jumping up, immediately grab the pull-up bar and perform a pull-up. Drop down and go straight into another burpee. This drill combines lower body, upper body, and core strength with cardiovascular conditioning. Do 3 sets of 8–10 reps. Renegade Row to Push-Up Purpose: Builds upper body strength (back, chest, arms) and core stability. Exercise: In a push-up position, hold a dumbbell in each hand. Perform a push- up, then row one dumbbell to your chest while stabilizing with the other arm. Lower the dumbbell and repeat on the other side. Do 3 sets of 8–10 reps per side. Dumbbell Clean to Front Squat Purpose: Develops explosive power in the legs, core, and shoulders. Exercise: Using dumbbells, perform a clean by explosively lifting them from the ground to shoulder height. Once the dumbbells are at shoulder height, immediately perform a front squat. Return to the starting position and repeat. Do 3 sets of 8–10 reps. Thruster (Squat to Overhead Press) Purpose: Combines leg and shoulder strength with explosive power. Exercise: Hold a barbell or pair of dumbbells at shoulder height. Perform a full squat, and as you stand up, use the momentum to press the weights overhead. Lower them back to shoulder height and immediately go into another squat. Do 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps. Barbell Power Clean Purpose: Develops explosive full-body power, focusing on the posterior chain, core, and upper body. Exercise: Start with the barbell on the ground, feet shoulder- width apart. Drive through your legs to lift the bar up, transitioning into a front squat position with the barbell at your shoulders. This move builds explosive strength in the hips, legs, and back. Do 4 sets of 5–8 reps. Bear Crawl with Push-Up Purpose: Improves core, shoulder, and leg strength with functional movement. Exercise: Start in a bear crawl position (on hands and feet, knees off the ground). Crawl forward for a few steps, then drop into a push-up. After each push-up, continue crawling. This drill targets core stability, shoulder strength, and cardiovascular endurance. Do 3 rounds of 20 meters with 10 push-ups each round. Sled Push/Pull Purpose: Develops lower body power, core strength, and conditioning. Exercise: Push a weighted sled across a track or turf for a certain distance (20–30 meters). Then, grab the rope or straps attached to the sled and pull it back to the starting position. This drill is fantastic for building explosive leg power and cardiovascular endurance. Do 3 rounds. armers Carry with Squat Purpose: Builds grip, shoulder, leg, and core strength. Exercise: Hold a pair of heavy dumbbells or kettlebells at your sides. Walk for a set distance (20–30 meters), then stop and perform a set of squats while holding the weights. Continue walking after each set of squats. This drill improves grip, core stability, and leg strength. Do 3 sets of 30-meter carries with 8–10 squats at each end.
Fannie Rutt's MURPH WORKOUT GUIDE: Military-Style Training Guide With Proven Strategies, Workout Regimes, and Motivations That Will Set You on a Path for Success and Supercharge Your Performance!