Jim Arvanitis, world-acclaimed Father of Modern Pankration and MMA pioneer, presents an in-depth analysis of this ancient fighting art and its modern derivative. Pankration is one of the oldest martial arts on record and the first to integrate striking, grappling, and submission techniques. The book examines the concepts, tactics, and training to their adaptation by the author in the 20th Century. Also discussed is pankration's development from its mythological roots to its sports inclusion in the Panhellenic festivals, and dynamic rebirth after it had vanished for several thousand years. Hundreds of illustrations and photos depict one-on-one combat action and training throughout the text. Greek pankration is the only fully-documented total fighting system of the Pre-Christian era and the precursor to MMA.

Mixed martial arts (MMA)—unarmed fighting games permitting techniques derived from a variety of martial arts and combat sports— has exploded from the fringes of sport into a worldwide phenomenon, a sport as controversial as it is compelling. This is the first book to pay MMA the serious philosophical attention it deserves. With contributions from leading international scholars of the philosophy of sport and martial arts, the book explores topics such as whether MMA qualifies as a martial art, the differences between MMA and the traditional martial arts, the aesthetic dimensions of MMA, the limits of consent and choice in MMA and whether MMA can promote moral virtues. It also explores cutting-edge practical and ethical topics, including the role of gender in MMA, and the question of whether trans athletes should be allowed to compete in the women’s divisions. The contributors to this anthology take down, ground and pound, and submit many essential questions about this fascinating recent development in the culture of sport and spectacle. This is important reading for anybody with an interest in combat sports, martial arts, or the philosophy, sociology, culture or history of sport.

Detailing the evolution of the Hellenic combat arts, this handbook chronicles the history behind the art of pankration. Beginning with the myths and traditions behind the art’s development, this examination also touches on pankration's modern methodology and techniques, fully explained in illustrative photographs and easy-to-follow captions. Revealing and informative, this exploration is a must-have for mixed martial arts and pankration practitioners as well as Ultimate Fighting Championship fans.

The history of mixed martial arts as a sport in the United States.

A comprehensive study of the practice of combat sports in the ancient civilizations of Greece, Rome and the Near East.

Mixed martial arts hasn t been dubbed the world 's fastest growing sport for nothing. It 's noticeably rocked the sporting world since the creation of the Ultimate Fighting Championship nearly two decades ago and has even shaken up the pop culture scene. Who would have expected popular MMA fighter Chuck Liddell to trade in his sparring gloves for dance shoes on "Dancing with the Stars"? A combo of grappling, punching, kneeing, and kicking, this sport looks like it will be grounding and pounding, sprawling and brawling, for some time to come."Mixed Martial Arts Most Wanted " steps into the cage and brings you round after round of fighting deeds and details worthy of a sport known for bloody battles and ingenious tactics. Authors Adam T. Heath and David L. Hudson Jr. have knocked out sixty top-ten lists detailing the low blows, grappling greats, human anomalies, and fighting females that make up the compelling world of mixed martial arts.There 's no need to be an insider Heath and Hudson bring you all of the sport 's best bouts, dirtiest moves, and brainscrambling kayos in a book that will keep MMA enthusiasts reeling for months.

Your full-color guide to this wildly popular combat sport! Mixed martial arts is sweeping the globe! In this practical guide, legendary MMA Champion Frank Shamrock shares his expertise and love for the sport. He introduces you to his famous training and fighting system, explaining the virtues, ethics, and techniques of MMA in clear detail while showing you how to develop a safe, effective training regimen. Begin with MMA basics — discover the history, the fighting styles, and modern rules and training techniques Prepare to start training — strengthen your body, focus your mind, learn the concepts of combat, and find a good instructor Stand up for yourself — your introductory course in stand up fighting, from essential strikes and defense to inside fighting with the clinch and takedowns Get ready to grapple — understand the essentials of ground fighting, including the guard position, submissions, and escapes Become a well-rounded fighter — improve your nutrition, develop a warm-up routine, expand your mental training, and get the rest you need Open the book and find: Proven strategies to train your body and mind More than 150 step-by-step, full-color photos illustrating proper technique The 8 positions of power Necessary MMA training equipment The styles and strategies of MMA competition Fight-specific training drills and games Tips for increasing your speed and avoiding injury Advice from the expert on improving your ground game

Antonio Nogueira is known as "The World's Most Dangerous Groundfighter"

A Must-Have Resource for all Warrior Athletes Regardless of your skill or fitness level, The Ultimate Mixed Marital Arts Training Guide - with more than 300 step-by-step photographs, detailed callouts, and comprehensive instruction - is the personal trainer you need to accomplish your workout goals and sharpen your techniques. You'll learn: • Cardio and strength training exercises like mountain climber push-ups, partner closed guard sit-up reaches, and the Muay Thai scarecrow • Striking and defense techniques such as the jab, cross, hook, overhand, Muay Thai knee, inner/outer thigh kick, and head kick • Wrestling and countering techniques including the dirty boxing clinch, the over-under clinch, and the Muay Thai clinch • Takedowns like the hip throw, shoot takedown, and single and double leg takedown • Jiu-jitsu passing and escape techniques for the full mount, knee mount, closed guard, open guard, and more • Winning submission moves like the arm bar, Kimura, omoplata, guillotine, ankle lock, and triangle choke • Drills to improve your punching and kicking speed and accuracy • Mental exercises to sharpen your focus, reduce your fears, and increase your concentration • Diet and nutrition techniques the pros use to stay in top fighting condition - whether they're in training mode or cutting weight before a match Whatever your personal fitness and fighting ambitions might be, The Ultimate Mixed Martial Arts Training Guide is your all-in-one resource to peak physical conditioning, clear mental focus, increased confidence, and superior fighting skills.