Mixed Martial Arts Induces Significant Fatigue and Muscle Damage Up to 24 Hours Post-combat

This study investigates the physiological/physical responses to a simulated mixed martial arts (MMA) competition over 24 hours. Twelve fighters performed a simulated MMA competition, consisting of three 5-minute MMA matches. Physiological/physical data were assessed before (Trest), directly after round 1 (Trd1), round 2 (Trd2) and round 3 (Trd3), and then 30 minutes (Trecovery30min) and 24 hours (Trecovery24h) post competition. Heart rate (HR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and blood lactate concentration ([La−]) were assessed at Trest, Trd1, Trd2, and Trd3. Biological data were collected at Trest, Trd3, Trecovery30min, and Trecovery24h. Physical tests were performed at Trest, Trecovery30min, and Trecovery24h. HR, RPE, and [La−] were high during competition. Leukocytes, hemoglobin, total protein, and glycemia were increased at Trd3 compared with all other time points (p ≤ 0.05). Cortisol was increased at Trd3 compared with Trest and Trecovery24h (p ≤ 0.05). Testosterone was higher at Trd3 and Trecovery30min than Trest (p
Source: Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research - Category: Sports Medicine Tags: Original Research Source Type: research