Can you bodybuild and train MMA at the same time?

In general, it is indeed possible to do bodybuilding and MMA at the same time, but it can be challenging. Bodybuilding and mixed martial arts (MMA) are two physically demanding sports that require dedication, discipline, and hard work. Both sports require a significant time commitment, and training for both simultaneously can be physically and mentally demanding.

Challenges of training both MMA and bodybuilding

One of the main challenges of training for both bodybuilding and MMA at the same time is finding a balance between the two. Bodybuilding typically involves a focus on muscle hypertrophy, with an emphasis on high volume and moderate to high intensity weight training. MMA, on the other hand, requires a combination of strength, power, endurance, and agility, and training typically involves a mix of cardio, conditioning, and technique drilling.

To train for both bodybuilding and MMA at the same time, you will need to not only train both but to ensure that you are getting enough rest and recovery. This may involve adjusting your schedule or training one sport in the morning and the other in the evening. It may also involve making adjustments to your nutrition and supplementation plan to support your training for both sports.

One important thing to consider is the risk of overtraining and burnout. Training for both bodybuilding and MMA can be physically and mentally demanding, and it’s important to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed to avoid overtraining and burnout.

Jack of both trades, master of none

It’s also worth noting that while it is possible to train for both bodybuilding and MMA at the same time, it may be more difficult to achieve high levels of success in both sports simultaneously. Anybody who has dedicated their time and effort to a sport knows that to really succeed you must really commit to practice and repetition. It can be difficult to do that with more than one sport at a time.

If you look at the top performing athletes in any given sport, you will very rarely see someone at the highest levels who spends their time on anything other than their chosen sport. To take two very non-MMA examples: you wouldn’t see Lionel Messi cross-training in gymnastics or Tiger Woods taking tennis lessons.

That said, if you are a hobbyist who loves Bodybuilding just as much as you love MMA (and you are not expecting to be a professional in both), there is no harm and training both at the same time.

Tips for balancing MMA training with bodybuilding

Here are some tips on how to balance training for mixed martial arts (MMA) with bodybuilding:

Set clear goals: Determine what you want to achieve in each sport and create a plan to help you reach those goals.

Create a balanced training schedule: Schedule your training sessions for both sports in a way that allows you to get enough rest and recovery. You may need to train one sport in the morning and the other in the evening, or adjust your schedule as needed to fit in both types of training.
Focus on quality over quantity: Don’t try to do too much too quickly. Instead, focus on quality training sessions and allow for adequate rest and recovery.
Adjust your nutrition: Make sure you are getting enough fuel to support your training for both sports. This may involve increasing your caloric intake and/or adjusting your macronutrient ratios.

Pay attention to your body: Listen to your body and make adjustments to your training as needed to avoid overtraining and burnout. If you need to rest, REST!
Don’t neglect technique: While bodybuilding focuses on muscle hypertrophy, technique is crucial in MMA. Make sure you are spending enough time working on your technique and skills.
Seek guidance: If you are struggling to balance your training for both sports, consider seeking guidance from a coach or trainer who can help you create a plan that works for you.

MMA and Bodybuilding – Sample Training Schedule

Here is a sample training schedule for a week that combines MMA and bodybuilding workouts in the same week. Depending on your preference you can swap the order to do one in the morning or one in the afternoon. It’s recommended to split this sessions throughout the day so you have time to rest and eat.

Day	MMA	Bodybuilding
Monday	1 hour of sparring and technique drills	Chest and triceps workout (3-4 sets of 8-12 reps for each exercise)
Tuesday	1 hour of strength and conditioning	Leg workout (3-4 sets of 8-12 reps for each exercise)
Wednesday	1 hour of sparring and technique drills	Rest day
Thursday	1 hour of strength and conditioning	Shoulders and abs workout (3-4 sets of 8-12 reps for each exercise)
Friday	1 hour of sparring and technique drills	Rest day
Saturday	1 hour of strength and conditioning	Back and biceps workout (3-4 sets of 8-12 reps for each exercise)
Sunday	Rest day	Rest day

Conclusion

While it is possible to train for both bodybuilding and MMA at the same time, it can be challenging and may require careful planning and adjustments to your training and nutrition. It’s important to find a balance between the two sports and to listen to your body to avoid overtraining and burnout. Ultimately, whether or not you choose to train for both bodybuilding and MMA at the same time will depend on your goals, your dedication, and your willingness to put in the work.

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Brian

My name is Brian and I'm a purple belt in BJJ. I train at GFTeam in Burnaby, Canada. My mission with this site is to inspire, educate and learn together with grappling enthusiasts around the world.