MMA Program Reviews
Here you will find reviews of all the top mma strength and conditioning workout programs. We are constantly updating and adding new mma workout program reviews, content, and other good or bad discoveries with these mma training workouts so be sure to visit this page often.
Below we have listed only the mma workout routines and programs that are worth reviewing. Chances are, if it isn’t listed here, it just simply didn’t make the cut, with the exception of programs that are marketed well, but don’t deliver, in which we have taken the time to let you know of such programs.
The reason for this is that we don’t want to review and recommend mma workout routines, products, or services that simply aren’t worth what you pay for them. There are a lot of so called “experts” out there who claim to know what they are talking about, when in reality, it’s just a bunch of b.s.
With that said, read below with the confidence and unbiased opinion of several views from REAL people (and a team of MMA strength and conditioning trainers) who actually physically put each mma workout routine to the test!
Top 2 Recommended Complete MMA Strength and Conditioning Programs
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Review of Eric Wong’s Ultimate MMA Strength and Conditioning Guide
Eric Wong presents probably the clearest and most complete laid out program for mixed-martial artists and fighters when it comes to strength and conditioning.
Right from Chapter 1 when Eric busts myths and explains an overview of the what, why, and how of mma strength and conditioning you know he knows what he is talking about; not to mention his impressive list of certificates, including Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), and that fact that he is the conditioning coach for mma fighter and UFC veteran Jeff Joslin.
One of the greatest things about Eric’s program is how complete it is. He covers everything from goal setting, to training and recovery, warm-ups, the types of flexibility, strength and power training, conditioning, 8, 12, and 16 week programs, tracking progress, pictures, videos, audio, and much, much more all in very great detail and laid out for anyone to easily understand and apply.
Eric truly understands the physical needs of mma fighters. He not only explains strength, conditioning, flexibility, etc, in general specifics to mma, but he also includes “assessment tests” so that each reader can truly customize the mma workout routine to fit their exact needs!
The fact that Eric really understands that each person is unique, has different strengths and weaknesses, and requires a program that is tailored to their specific needs is what set’s Eric’s program apart from the rest.
Another thing I like about Eric’s program is that he does a fantastic job helping the reader understand the main points that should be remembered and applied.
It is very easy for beginners or mma fighters who know the technique in fighting but nothing in terms of proper strength and conditioning to drown in the plethora of information that is to be learned.
Eric breaks it down very well and helps the reader understand what the main points to remember are. Of course, the actual program itself is designed with all these principles and methods in mind and if readers don’t necessarily want to learn the information all they have to do is work the program and they will get phenomenal results.
With all the information and applicable techniques and exercises to better strengthen, condition, and overall prepare mma fighters to reach optimal levels physically in regards to mma, not to mention the actual program itself, you are getting MORE then your money’s worth, and Eric’s book should be in the library of every mixed martial artist.
Noticeable Bonuses
Nutrition-itsu
Eric takes a unique and powerful approach by teaching mma fighters to treat nutrition as a form of martial art – one that takes time, patience, and practice to master but will bring fighters strong bodies, energy, desired fat levels, and optimal health.
The in-depth detail on knowing AND applying feeding your body the right foods and when for optimal performance is astounding. He breaks down A through Z everything you need to know and HOW to apply it and conquer the many challenges 90% of people have with maintaining a proper daily meal plan such as what to eat, when and how often to eat, how to save money when shopping, and he even virtually walks you through the grocery store. Also included is a quick start guide with sample meal plans for several different training time scenarios.
No-Sweat Weight Cutting
One of the greatest reports on cutting weight effectively and without putting any danger to your health. Eric outlines a step by step process day by day down to every calorie you consume. This is an absolute MUST for mma fighters who are looking for the most effective and safest way to cut weight without physically draining themselves.
Secrets of the Mental Game for MMA Fighters
An exclusive interview with Brian Cain, Director of Brian Cain of Peak Performance and one of the top peak performance coaches that has worked with UFC stars such as Georges St. Pierre, Rich Franklin, Keith Jardine, and many more. Covers very insightful and expert information on the mental game for top MMA fighters.
Summary
In short, Eric Wong’s Ultimate MMA Strength and Conditioning is by far the most dominate mma workout program on the market and absolutely the best value.
There really isn’t one that competes with it on this level yet. The program is complete, and you literally have all the information you can possibly need and MORE to reach optimal physical strength and conditioning as a mma fighter.
Mixed martial arts is still a rising sport that has just barely touched the surface. The strength and conditioning side of it is even more at its beginning stages.
More and more mixed martial artists are beginning to realize the vital importance of strength and conditioning side of mma. I truly believe that Eric Wong’s mma workout routine holds secrets to future of mma fighters that have yet to be revealed to the mainstream.
Check out Eric Wong’s Ultimate
MMA Strength and Conditioning Guide Here
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Review of Jim Smith’s Combat Core:
Advanced Torso Training for Explosive Strength and Power
Combat Core is the ultimate resource for developing an elite level of strength and conditioning with a focus on the most important muscles of the body in mma: the core.
In the main book, author Jim Smith, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, goes over the what, why, and how of core training for combat athletes and mma fighters.
Indeed a strong and conditioned core is arguably the secret to many of a mixed martial artists arsenal such as punching and kicking power, endurance and conditioning, fighting both for and against submission holds, and balance to name a few; and Combat Core is by far the king of the hill when it comes to mastering core strength and conditioning.
What’s unique about Combat Core is that although it still supplies a great overall MMA strength and conditioning program with all of the including bonuses (especially the Deluxe Edition), it is and will probably remain the king of the hill in terms of core training.
So, if you are a mma fighter or coach looking for mma workout routines but want to specialize on developing the core, this is it. Don’t even waste any more time looking for a better program to compare it with, because everything you are looking for in core training is here.
The main book includes a chapter on program strategies, in which Jim goes over several different ways you can incorporate the core workout program into your regular skill training and strength and conditioning workouts; including examples on how to include them either before, during, or after your regular skill and strength and conditioning workouts.
After providing a few examples and a brief look at the core workout intensity and volume training, you get into the combat core exercise database.
And this is the meat of the main book: Over 140 core exercises include pictures and descriptions split into different “series” of workouts that train specific parts of the core including:
* Decline Series (exercises using the decline bench)
* Heavy Bag Series (shadowboxing, with sandbag, and with kettlebells)
* Braced Series
* Farmers Walk Series
* The Posterior Chain
* Several extra exercises with: sledgehammers, ab roller, resistance bands, thick ropes, stability balls, and much more!
Perhaps the best part of the Combat Core series is that you will never get bored of your training AND you will get the best type of conditioning for mma fighters because your workout routines will always be different, thus not allowing your body to get “comfortable” with it’s training and not improving the much needed random conditioning that MMA fights require.
There is also the option of getting the Combat Core DVD series which includes video instructions on how to perform all 140 exercises. This not only serves as a good instructional supplement, but it’s a great motivational video as well!
Notable Bonuses: (Deluxe Edition: Recommended for added bonuses, value, and complete package)
Explosive Medicine Ball Training
Includes a huge exercise index on medicine ball training exercises to develop power and reactivity
Sledgehammer Training Essentials
If you’re looking into MMA strength and conditioning, chances are you have seen or heard about sledgehammer training. Learn everything you need to know including why, how, and what kind of strength and endurance you will develop with sledgehammers. Besides, who wouldn’t feel like a warrior smashing a sledgehammer into a giant truck tire?
Advanced Kettlebell Training
If you train with kettlebells and want to take your training to the next level, this e-book has it all. It includes some very interesting advanced exercises such as combining kettlebells AND sandbags, bands, and grip training devices. If you think that sounds weird, well, it looks even weirder. But it will develop phenomenal functional strength and power for fighters and this book will show you how.
MMA Power Program
Renowned strength coach Mike Hanley tells you how he sets up the strength and conditioning program for his MMA athletes. A killer bonus to be added to any mma workout routine and a must have. That’s all I have to say.
There are actually several other bonuses included that really make this program a complete package for MMA fighters.
Summary
There is a reason why you don’t hear me complaining about this program and why I recommend it in the top 2, and that’s because it really is THAT good. Along with Eric Wong’s Ultimate MMA Strength and Conditioning, Combat Core is really the only other COMPLETE mma strength and conditioning program that covers everything mma fighters need.
If I had to complain, and for this reason is why I ranked Eric Wong’s program above it, is that unlike Eric Wong’s program where it is a complete program already put together for mma fighters to just simply implement, Combat Core is more of a resource and index of exercises for strength and conditioning for fighters, a HUGE resource I might add.
So if you already have a good mma workout routine that you follow, you can add the exercises, techniques, and principles from Combat Core right in. But what Combat core does have that Eric’s program doesn’t is a wider variety or exercises, such as but not limited to core exercises, to choose from.
In summery, the Combat Core Deluxe Package is a MUST have for any series MMA fighter looking to improve their strength and conditioning, period. Get a hold of this and you will literally have unlimited amount of mma workout routines to put together to master your strength and conditioning, especially for your core.
(Note: Pay the extra amount and get the Combat Core Deluxe Edition, you get WAY more of a complete package for MMA fighters. Do whatever you have to do to get a few extra bucks together because there is much, MUCH more value in the Deluxe Edition in terms of getting a complete mma workout program)
Check Out Jim Smith’s Combat Core:
Combat Core: Advanced Torso Training
for Explosive Strength and Power
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Review of The Ultimate Weapon

First and foremost, The Ultimate Weapon is the most complete and comprehensive guide on strength and conditioning and everything else in-between for grapplers, but the type of athleticism you will develop from their 165 page book, (w/ 33 pages of printable training logs for their various programs) carries right over to mixed martial artists. So for MMA fighters who’s current main focus is the clinch and grappling range of fighting and are competing in wrestling or Brazilian jujitsu tournaments as well as MMA fights, this is a MUST have resource.
Any athlete in any sport will benefit tremendously from this program, but MMA fighters will develop strength and conditioning specific especially for the clinch and grappling range, and grapplers in general absolutely HAVE TO HAVE this book if they want to become the best and outperform their competition.
By following the full program, or the 25 weeks of hell as they call it, you will have developed the strength, endurance, and explosive athleticism to outwork ANY opponent in the ring, mat, or cage. The Ultimate Weapon truly delivers what the subtitle implies, “A Trainers Guide to Creating the Ultimate Athlete.”
The first chapter covers extensively the aspect of cardiovascular training, otherwise known as conditioning, in general for grapplers and combat athletes. The author does a tremendous job in explaining all of the aspects and answering the all to common questions grapplers and combat athletes have in terms of conditioning: what it is and what it isn’t, the types of endurance such as aerobic, anaerobic, speed endurance, strength endurance both dynamic and static, power endurance, and the best part and probably what you are looking for: how to PUT IT ALL TOGETHER, or as they state it, “Creating the Total Package.”
In creating the “Total Package” the author breaks each aspect of conditioning down, and then explains the four “performance systems” that are necessary to train in conjunction with one another: skill, physical, mental, and emotional.
The information on the actual physical training is phenomenal, but the author doesn’t stop there. You will also learn about the mental side of training, things like developing confidence, mental toughness, and how and why to set goals.
Next, there is a very well written and comprehensive section on “The Warm Up”, where the author covers everything from the what, why, and how of warming up to reach top levels of strength and conditioning. “Muscles cooled to 18C (64F), have a 32 work-capacity period that is 2-3 times shorter…taking a hot shower prior to exercise will increase isometric endurance as well as the speed of muscular contraction and endurance” is an example of the amount of detail the author goes into in the warm up section, so you can begin to imagine the amount of detail is covered in the actual workout!
Next there is a section on GPP, or general physical preparation, where the author covers everything it takes to be in the best possible shape in terms of strength and conditioning for grapplers and combat athletes; including weighted exercises, non-weight exercises, and everything else in between.
At this point you are not even halfway through the book. There is even more information breakdown with fully dedicated sections on…
• Maximum strength training
• Power training
• Endurance training
• Muscle endurance training
• Cardiovascular training
• Recovering from training and competition
• Nutrition
• Hydration
• Methods for overcoming barriers
• A bonus chapter on the making of a champion
• 40 different strength and conditioning workouts
• 38 weeks of sprint training
ALL wrapped up in a 25 week program that readers can begin as soon as they get a hold of the program, along with printable workout sheets for the various programs.
Summary
If I only was allowed to say one thing about The Ultimate Weapon it would be this: If you want to be a complete mma fighter, GET THIS PROGRAM. If you currently compete or plan on competing in any form or grappling tournament or competition, such as wrestling or Brazilian jujitsu, you can’t afford to NOT have a copy of this book. The amount of information and the strength and conditioning program included in this book will turn any combat athlete into a strength and conditioning MONSTER in 25 weeks.
It is so well put together and includes so many details, readers will be left with practically every answer when they finish this book in terms of strength and conditioning and everything else in-between for grapplers and mma fighters.
Check Out The Ultimate Weapon Here
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Review of Grapplers Gym: The Home of Advanced
Strength and Conditioning Training for Combat Athletes

When it comes to MMA training workouts, Grapplers Gym is by far the most complete, comprehensive, and ongoing online resource today. The vast amount of information, resources, and products all revolve around the physical needs of mixed martial artists and grapplers.
Whether you are looking to develop your strength and conditioning in grappling, stand up, or all the other elements in between, this is THE resource.
Here is just some of the information they cover in mma strength and conditioning:
- Audio interviews
- Coaching
- Body Weight Training
- Strength Training
- Conditioning
- Sandbag Training
- Nutrition
- Medicine Ball Training
- Youth Training
- And WAY more
What makes Grapplers Gym unique to other mma workout routines is that it is not limited to just a one time program. You can literally spend HOURS on this site and find answers to virtually EVERY question you may have when it comes to fight training and mma workout programs and individual exercises.
Summary
In a nutshell, the Grapplers Gym website is the ultimate resource for mma fighters and trainers looking to improve their strength and conditioning through mma workout routines. Out of all the mma strength and conditioning websites I’ve reviewed so far, I haven’t found a more complete and valuable resource. Just by going through the vast amount of information, products, articles, videos, interviews, and much more, you can literally become a mma strength and conditioning expert from your desk.
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Review of Fitness Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate MMA Fitness Program

In terms of conditioning programs and developing muscle endurance and developing a great gas tank, Fitness Jiu-Jitsu offers some good charted out mma workout programs that are progressive over several months. However, this is, sadly, pretty much all that is included in the whole package.
Although the programs themselves are effective and will definitely develop fantastic conditioning, mainly for grapplers I might add, the program is limited in two MAJOR areas: 1. Content outside of the actual workouts (there is virtually nothing for you to read or learn about in terms of what is important to develop as a fighter let alone how this program accomplishes this) and 2. programs to develop other factors important to MMA strength and conditioning, such as absolute strength, relative strength, strength endurance, power endurance, nutrition, flexibility, incorporating the program with your skills training, etc.
Though there are quite a few bonuses that come with this program, along with some good conditioning programs to develop a great “gas tank”, the downside is that the information is very limited. Each e-book is no longer then 10 pages (some even 2) and is nothing more then just charted workouts over the course of several weeks.
Are the programs effective, though? Yes. One interesting bonus is the Power 500 Training Program, where trainees are put through an intense 4 week program (meant for the off season) where each workout they complete 500 reps, 100 each from 5 compound exercises, in a circuit. This is a great program for developing muscle endurance, but again, this is where this whole program is limited.
MMA fighters and grapplers alike need to also develop things like absolute strength, power, strength endurance (which is different from muscle endurance) power endurance, and sport specific conditioning. Unfortunately, Fitness Jui-Jitsu doesn’t cover any of this.
The only other somewhat worthy bonus is the free access to the Iron Guard Fitness membership, in which members have access to a few videos, workouts, and other tips.
Summary
Outside of some great conditioning programs that one can follow over the course of several months and a few bonuses that include more specific workouts (kettlebell workout, mass building) the overall program is far too incomplete and not for MMA fighters looking for a complete mma workout routine. It lacks specificity to MMA fighters (a lot of the workouts are geared for general fitness and fat loss), workouts to develop other important aspects of strength and conditioning for MMA, and the importance of customizing each workout to fit each MMA fighters needs.
Even though the workouts will develop some great conditioning for grapplers, $37 is much too pricey for the very limited product that you receive. For grapplers, you will get a MUCH better value (like, WAAYYY better) for The Ultimate Weapon for $10 less.
In short, Fitness Jiu-Jitsu is nothing more then a bunch of muscle endurance and conditioning workouts separated over several ebooks. Though it’s far from the worst, it definitely isn’t “The MMA Ultimate Fitness Program” nor does it even come close to the big dogs in MMA workout programs.
Check Out the Fitness
Jiu-Jitsu Program Here
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Review of Matt “Wiggy” Wiggins Working Class Fitness Program

Matt “Wiggy” Wiggins has truly put together what every mixed martial artist should have in his or her library in regards to pre-fight training and conditioning.
Though Wiggy targets his program as a mma workout routine for the “average guy”, this program can certainly been used as a UFC workout, as he covers absolutely everything a mma fighter or fan needs to know when it comes to training for a fight: mma workout routines, UFC training techniques, mma strength and conditioning, and everything else in between.
What makes Wiggy unique is that he truly is an expert in the strength and conditioning field when it comes specifically to mma workout programs. Unlike a lot of posers out there or arm chair “experts” who just whipped up a half-ass program just to make a buck, Wiggy truly knows the strength and conditioning side of MMA like no ones business.
The best part of Wiggy’s program is that it consists of SIX separate programs; including a program that teaches you the principles and techniques you need to know to customize your own workout programs based on each MMA fighters unique situation.
This means that you have complete, step-by-step proven fight preparation program to follow, AND everything you need to know to continue training without purchasing more mma workout routines or products.
Another plus about Working Class Fitness is that Wiggy is always coming out with new products and services. His latest product, “Power Trip”, is indeed his best work yet. For a very nominal monthly cost, you get the following updated information:
* Diet/Nutrition Info – 100+ pages of charts listing food by protein, fat, carbs, and calories; two activity intensity charts; calories burned calculator; ‘Power Trip’ Diet FAQ
* Training Info – ‘Power Trip’ Training and Power Complexes FAQs; two repetition max calculating charts; ‘Physical Needs of MMA’ report; recommended supplier listing
* Monthly Workouts – each and every month, you’ll receive a new ‘Power Trip’ MMA workout programs broken down by day, exercise, sets, reps, and more; includes upper and lower body strength and power training, power complexes, intervals, aerobic training, bodyweight conditioning, and more; new printable ‘Power Trip’ workout logs (just fill in the blanks); a new ‘Power Trip’ monthly newsletter, a new ‘Power Trip’ monthly audio seminar
* Fight Prep Program – need to focus your MMA training on a fight coming up? Let me know – I’ll send you a specific fight prep workout program.
Though Wiggy definitely has the training knowledge of mma strength and conditioning, the one draw back of some of his programs is that they are a little difficult to comprehend when reading. I have been involved in mma and strength and conditioning training all my life, and even I had to read over a couple of his ebooks more then twice to understand certain points (pics would help). Even though the training information is solid, having a hard time comprehending what you are reading makes learning much more difficult.
However, in the end, the information and programs that Wiggy offers are first class none-the-less. If you don’t mind having to read over some paragraphs a few times to understand what’s going on, then you will still be definitely be satisfied the results you’ll get with his mma workout routines and training advice.
To learn what other UFC veterans, athletes, and even what Joe Rogan (official UFC commentator) has to say about it…
Check Out Matt “Wiggy” Wiggins
Working Class Fitness Program Here
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If you are not interested in fighting or competing as a mixed martial artist, but you want to have the conditioning and the body of a professional fighter…
This is the program for you:
MMA Ripped Fat Loss Program

This is another one of Eric Wong’s products, and, like his Ultimate MMA Strength and Conditioning Guide, it delivers everything you would expect and more.
Right away you can tell that he knows what he is talking about just by looking at his picture on his website.
One thing my mentor always told me was this, “there is no better way to judge a man then by his results.” Often harsh, but always fair. Eric Wong certainly backs his products with his results.
Eric truly understands physical fitness, and this proven program includes everything you need to get the ripped and shredded physique of a mma fighter.
Keep in mind that this is NOT a program if you are training for a fight, but more of a bodybuilding and fitness program using the same techniques mma fighters use and amping it up to meet the goal of a shredded and muscular physique.
The great thing about this program is that mma fan’s can use the secrets and techniques of UFC training exercises to get a lean and muscular physique at the same time.
So if you are an MMA fan that is more interested in attracting the opposite sex on the beach then stepping into the cage, this is the program for you.
Check Out MMA Ripped
Fat Loss Program Here
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Have a MMA workout routine or program that you would like us to review? We’d love to hear about it!
Like I said before, I am in the business dissecting MMA training workouts and mma strength and conditioning programs with a fine tooth comb in search of the most efficient and effective way to become an MMA fighting machine. Any and all feedback or recommended programs is more then welcome.
You can send your recommendation through my contact page









