MMA coach Mike Van Arsdale lends training tips in a live web chat

The excitement of watching mixed martial arts fighters in the octagon has sparked an interest in MMA training among men and women, and all types of athletes are incorporating the sport’s techniques. Join a live Web chat on Monday, June 20 at noon Pacific time (2 p.m. Central, 3 p.m. Eastern) with MMA coach Mike Van Arsdale as he lends his tips about MMA’s benefits.

Van Arsdale made his MMA debut in Brazil in 1998, claiming the title of the International Vale Tudo Championships. He is a former gold medal winner in World Cup freestyle wrestling and a former UFC fighter. These days he can be found training top MMA fighters such as Rashad “Suga” Evans, Jorge “Sandman” Santiago, Anthony “Rumble” Johnson and Gesias “JZ” Cavalcante.

We asked Van Arsdale for some advice on the best way for rank beginners to start training. First, he said, think practically.

“Find a local gym that’s convenient, that’s not too far a drive,” he said. “Training has to fit into your day.”

He also advised against doing too much too soon: “Don’t try to push it too fast. Start at a beginner’s level and really master the basic concepts as you learn the process.” For those who choose to learn the techniques to stay in shape and don’t care to progress to sparring or fighting, much can still be learned by hitting bags.

It’s getting easier to find MMA gyms and trainers outside of larger cities, Van Arsdale said. “For the most part, communities are embracing these gyms and want them to stay. I think you’re going to see them everywhere because I think the sport is here to stay and will continue to grow.”