Combat Sports are intense physical activities that require a high level of skill, dedication, and training. They provide a unique blend of physical challenge, mental discipline, and strategic depth that appeals to athletes at all levels. They also have a long history of engendering important social values, such as perseverance and respect, and serving as a vehicle through which broader issues of race and gender are examined, debated, and inspired change.
The fast-paced nature of combative sports makes for a thrilling and exciting spectator experience. However, these sports are not without their risks. According to research, combat sports athletes are more likely to be injured than other sport participants. Moreover, in the 2012 London Olympics, injuries eliminated more athletes from competing in boxing, wrestling, or judo than they did in rugby, football, handball, athletics, mountain biking, swimming, field hockey, or weightlifting (33).
In addition to their physical demands, combative sports encourage a healthy lifestyle by fostering positive psychological development, including self-discipline, resilience, and respect for others. In addition, they often build a sense of community through training and competition, where competitors push each other to excel and support one another in difficult times.