Mixed martial arts as a way of life: going beyond the black belt and engaging in life-long learning

Rusticus, Shayna and Dumoulin, Amanda Rose 2023. Mixed martial arts as a way of life: going beyond the black belt and engaging in life-long learning. Martial Arts Studies (13) , pp. 71-83. 10.18573/mas.141

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Abstract

In this qualitative study, we explored the experiences of 10 adults who trained in mixed martial arts (MMA) to understand the meaning they ascribed to attaining the black belt and their martial arts journal overall. Using a conventional content analysis, four themes were derived from the data: importance of the black belt, benefits of training in MMA, dealing with injuries, and being part of the MMA community. Training in MMA was very positive, with both individual benefits (improved physical and mental health, skill development, and personal growth) and interpersonal benefits (relationship development and sense of community) being reported. Self-determination theory (Ryan & Deci, 2000) and goal setting theory (Locke & Latham, 2002) are used to discuss participants’ motivation in their pursuit of the black belt and continued training.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Published Online
Status:	Published
Publisher:	Cardiff University Press
ISSN:	2057-5696
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	20 February 2023
Date of Acceptance:	16 January 2023
Last Modified:	27 Nov 2023 11:33
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/157160

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