Combat Sports involve forced physical contact between two participants and can include striking, grappling, kicking, weapon handling, or a combination of techniques. Examples of combat sports include boxing, pro wrestling, kickboxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, karate, muay Thai, judo, capoeira, and mixed martial arts (MMA).
While these disciplines share some core principles, they also differ from one another in the techniques they emphasize, the rules that govern them, and the gear and training methods used to minimize injury. Each has its own distinct history and culture, and continues to evolve in response to changing social and cultural factors.
Athletes participate in combat sports for a variety of reasons, including personal challenge, self-defense, stress relief, community connection, or as a way to explore their own physical and mental limits. The intense physical exertion involved in training and sparring helps to reduce stress levels by releasing endorphins. Additionally, the comradery and camaraderie among fighters and trainers foster a sense of belonging that can be a strong motivating factor for continued participation.
The unique physical, physiological, and psychological demands of combat sports challenge athletes to the limits of their ability. The close-contact nature of the sport, frequent exposure to concussive forces, and the diversity in body types and fighting styles create complex variables that necessitate specialized research and tailored medical approaches.