(2025) Science and education, 3, 66-69. Odessa.

Oleksandr Zhuravel,
Doctor of Philosophy in Law,
Senior Lecturer at the Department of Special Physical Training,
Dnipro State University of Internal Affairs,
26, Nauky Ave., Dnipro, Ukraine,
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6830-150Х

FORMATION OF PSYCHOLOGICAL AND PHYSICAL READINESS OF ATHLETES IN MMA BY MEANS OF SPORTS PEDAGOGY

The article examines the issues of forming psychological and physical readiness of athletes in mixed martial arts (MMA) through the means of sports pedagogy. The purpose is to identify and substantiate pedagogical tools for developing psychological and physical readiness of MMA athletes and to reveal their effectiveness within the system of sports training. Research methods: analysis, synthesis, generalization, comparison, systematization, observation, questionnaires, interviews, testing, pedagogical experiment, and video analysis. The paper emphasizes a comprehensive approach that combines physical training (development of strength, speed, coordination, and endurance qualities) with the formation of psychological resilience, concentration, willpower, and the ability to make effective decisions under stressful conditions of combat. The theoretical review analyzes modern scientific approaches to MMA fighters’ preparation, identifies pedagogical tools that ensure the integration of physical and psychological components of readiness, and describes the specifics of the training process, including interval loads, sparring, and functional exercises. Special attention is paid to pedagogical methods of developing psychological readiness: breathing techniques, relaxation, combat visualization, and modeling stressful situations. A table is presented that systematizes the main components of physical and psychological readiness of MMA athletes and the pedagogical means of their formation. It is emphasized that a comprehensive approach improves technical efficiency, decision-making speed, adaptation to stressful conditions, and also reduces the risk of injuries and overtraining. The study has practical significance for coaches and educators involved in training MMA athletes and contributes to optimizing the training process through the harmonious development of physical and psychological aspects of readiness.

mixed martial arts (MMA), physical readiness, psychological readiness, comprehensive approach, sports pedagogy, stress resilience, training process

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