Theoretical Basis of Technical-tactical Behavior and its Application in Ultimate Full Contact Training

Technical-tactical training has been shown to be relevant to performance in a competition. In this regard, several studies have analysed the efficiency of technical-tactical dynamics in combat sports. However, these researchers have mainly focused on technical efficiency, and therefore more research is needed regarding tactical efficiency. Furthermore, to the best of our knowledge, there are no published experiential studies on Ultimate Full Contact.

This brief review will analyse the theoretical basis of technical-tactical behaviour for training application in Ultimate Full Contact, characterising the modality under cognitive and dynamic-ecological approaches. This knowledge can be transferred and applied to similar modalities, such as Pankration, Free Fight, Shooto, and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).

The theoretical technical-tactical knowledge created through competition is essential because it is the only way that improvement in the training process can occur. Ultimate Full Contact is characterised as a combat sport of special complexity and intermitent intensity, where the technical-tactical factors are decisive for the performance while the physical component can be a conditioning factor. A careful regulation between technical-tactical training load and physiological load is essential to obtain adjustable adaptations. Both cognitive and dynamic-ecological approaches should be considered based on the respective training models.