Issue 147

Training while travelling comes high on most MMA enthusiasts’ list of priorities. Check out these international residential training camps.

Connection Rio 

Rio De Janeiro, Brazil 

A sprawling house in the picturesque suburb of Barra Da Tijuaca, there’s a choice of dormitory or private rooms. Close to restaurants, bars and shops, the house has free wifi, a pool, onsite laundry facilities and even maid service.

Less than a minute’s walk from Evolve MMA (home to UFC vet Rafael Dos Anjos), you’re also within easy traveling distance of the Nogueira Team training center, home to the Nogueiras, Junior Dos Santos and Anderson Silva. To top it off, guests wake up every morning to a stunning view of the mountain Pedra da Gavea. 

Tiger Muay Thai and MMA 

Phuket, Thailand

The biggest mixed training camp in Thailand, Tiger Muay Thai and MMA is a popular destination for fighters from around the world. Everyone from Mike Swick to Roger Huerta has dropped in to take advantage of the excellent twice-daily Muay Thai and MMA training.

The three-acre facility has six boxing rings, an MMA Cage, a weight-lifting facility and even a grill restaurant and juice bar! Accommodation ranges from dorm rooms to luxury private bungalows. 

The HIT Squad

Granite City, Illinois

Matt Hughes’ HIT Squad gym was the first major MMA gym in the USA to offer residential training. Sharing the mat with Hughes, Robbie Lawler et al, you have the choice of six training sessions a day.

Accommodation facilities are Spartan but a convenient 100 yards from the front door of the gym. You’ll share a twin room with either a full-time fighter or a fellow visitor. Every room has its own toilet, and there’s wifi, a communal sitting room (with TV), a kitchen and laundry facilities.