Mixed martial arts (MMA) fingerless gloves have been developed for many reasons aimed at ensuring the safety and efficiency of fighters.
Here are the five main reasons for why fingerless MMA gloves were developed
Grasping and Grappling
Grappling and submission techniques are important in MMA. Fingerless gloves allow fighters to grasp and manipulate the limbs of their opponents effectively. The fingerless design provides smoothness and control, allowing fighters to precisely control various fighting styles.
Striking Versatility
MMA incorporates several different striking techniques, including punches, elbows, and hammer fists. The engagement of the fingers allows for better hand control, making it easier to execute complex techniques. It can also give fighters a wristband while maintaining the ability to catch and grip when needed.
Flexibility And Movement
The fingerless design allows the hands to naturally adjust and move. This is important for defensive action, temporary actions, and all hand movements during combat. The lack of fingerprints allows fighters to react quickly and adapt to the varying conditions in the cage.
Reduced Hand Injuries
Gloveless MMA gloves help reduce the risk of certain hand injuries. Traditional boxing gloves that completely cover the wrist can sometimes lead to sprains and broken wrists. MMA gloves, by exposing the wrists, reduce the impact forces on the hands and wrists during impact.
Legal Requirements
MMA gloves are based on specific rules set by athletic commissions and governing bodies for the sport. These regulations typically specify glove design and procedures to ensure safety.
Everything You Need to Know About MMA Glove Sizes and Weight
These gloves are vital tools for fighters, providing protection and support while training. Choosing the right MMA glove size and weight is important for safety and performance. Consider the following factors when choosing the right glove size and weight:
Hand Circumference
For this, you can measure the diameter of your most used hand below the elbow. For that, in marketing, many manufacturers offer the right sizes made to fit your dominant hand.
Intended Use
Different MMA glove weights are suitable for training purposes. Heavier gloves (14 ounces to 16 ounces) are typically used for sparring and strength development, while lighter gloves (8 ounces to 12 ounces) prefer pad work, bag training, and quick strikes.
Competition Rules
MMA fights gloves are put on certain weight ranges like between 4 ounces to 6 ounces. A rule issued by the relevant sports commission or governing body is important.
MMA Glove Weights for Different Situations
Lightweight gloves (8 ounces to 12 ounces)
These gloves are ideal for training precision movement, such as working with pads and bags of movement. They enable fighters to deliver a quick blast and improve hand speed.
Medium Gloves (14 ounces to 16 ounces)
Medium-weight gloves for a balance between movement and power. It is often used to give you and your training partner extra protection.
Competitive Gloves (4 oz. to 6 oz.):
These gloves are designed specifically for official MMA fights. They are lightweight. This way the fighter could enhance speed and performance.
How to Choose MMA Gloves for Heavy Bag Training?
MMA gloves are a go-to choice for entering tough training. They are specifically designed with plenty of padding to provide aid to your wrists and fingers while playing. Look for gloves with padding around the wrist and the back of the hand. This padding helps reduce the risk of hand injury. Choose a glove with a durable closure to ensure a secure fit. This stabilizes the wrist and prevents the wrist from slipping during training.
Make sure the gloves fit around the handle and are not too tight or too loose. It needs to fit for comfort and safety. Some MMA gloves for heavy bags have an open design, providing a comfortable grip and ventilation. This system can be useful for grappling and other MMA styles.
Choose gloves from reputable brands known for quality MMA gear. A weight of 12 to 16 ounces is generally adequate for heavy bag training.
Use MMA Gloves on a Punching Bag
Punching bag training improves strength and technique in various fighting disciplines including
MMA. However, it is not recommended to wear MMA gloves while punching bags. This just comes down to safety.
Creating a 100-pound punching bag can be very stressful. If you’re not careful, this can cause small cracks in your hands. Many MMA professionals believe that their wrists provide necessary protection from punch-bag training, but this is not true.
MMA Gloves are not designed for that rigidity against such a hard surface. They are designed for live combat against real people. Therefore, they lack the necessary padding to absorb the impact of aggressive MMA gloves for punching bags. If you need to train with gloves in a punching bag, you may want to invest in heavy-bag gloves designed specifically for that special purpose.
Care and Maintenance of MMA Gloves
- Wipe under gloves after each use to remove sweat and germs.
- Use an antiseptic wipe or spray to keep clean.
- Air them out after each use to prevent odor and bacterial growth.
- Avoid direct sunlight or damaging heat
- Store in a well-ventilated area to prevent mold growth.
- Check gloves regularly for signs of damage.
Bottom Line
Stay tuned with Koed for more informative blogs regarding finding the perfect MMA glove!
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