Pull Ups for fighting

[jboles773]

This question struck me today, and I'm sorry if it has already been posed, but how exactly do pull ups translate to mma?

I ask this because, while I know they strengthen the latissimus dorsi, the angle at which they strengthen them (pulling straight down) seems like it wouldn't translate that well. I feel like a rowing motion would be more appropriate being as most of the things you're likely to move in a fight are right in front of you.

So I guess my question is this: Do the benefits of training the lats by doing pull ups translate to several different ranges of pulling motion, or do you have to train at a certain angle to develop strength at that angle?

Thank you for your time.

 

[LitteringAnd]

You are overthinking this I believe.

They make you stronger, and being stronger is a good thing.

As far as it being sport specific, I think it probably mimics the movement involved in clinching more than a row does. Not that it necessarily matters, just get stronger.

 

[wildnuts]

Hammer fist much?

 

[DrBdan]

Like LitteringAnd said, they are good for making you stronger. Specifically upper body pulling. Don't worry about it being sport specific, that's what your MMA training is for.

 

[rms6000]

These muscles would be involved during a muay thai clinch, and also while throwing any straight punches (if your elbows are down like they're supposed to be). I know that my lats always hurt after hitting mits or doing bag work. Not to mention how important all of your back muscles are during any wrestling or grappling movements. Pull ups alone are a great back workout. I like to switch up the grip and do narrow, wide, palms forward/back, etc.

 

[rwmma]

You are overthinking this I believe.

They make you stronger, and being stronger is a good thing.

As far as it being sport specific, I think it probably mimics the movement involved in clinching more than a row does. Not that it necessarily matters, just get stronger.

I agree...don't over think it

 

[livingdeadmoose]

Don't get into the sport specific crap. Do both your rows and pull ups and get stronger. Strength is universal and translates to your sport when you practice frequently at your sport.

Keep the strength training and technique training separate or you will waste your time splitting hairs.

 

[jboles773]

You are overthinking this I believe.

They make you stronger, and being stronger is a good thing.

As far as it being sport specific, I think it probably mimics the movement involved in clinching more than a row does. Not that it necessarily matters, just get stronger.

Thank you, you make a good point. I believe I am over-analyzing this.

 

[jboles773]

Thank you everyone, this is exactly what I was looking for.