Mixed Martial Arts classes – the first of their kind in Rhondda Cynon Taf – are being held at the Michael Sobell Sports Centre, Aberdare.
The full contact combat sport is a worldwide phenomenon and is watched by millions of sports fans around the globe.
Now is the chance to try out the sport yourself in Rhondda Cynon Taf and learn the use of both the striking and grappling techniques the fighters use.
The origin of Mixed Martial Arts can be traced back to the ancient Olympic sport of Pankration and includes boxing, wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Karate, Judo and other styles.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship is the world’s largest Mixed Martial Arts promotion.
Cllr Robert Bevan, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Recreation and Tourism, said: “These classes demonstrate that we are listening to what our service users want and are providing the opportunity for them to pursue their chosen sport.
“These are just one of the many activities that are held at all of our leisure centres in a bid to get the message across that Leisure is for Life.
“There are an extensive range of programmes on offer at various times throughout the day and evening, including the weekends, at all Council owned Leisure Centres for those who wish to take advantage of them.”
Leisure for Life is a campaign launched by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council aimed at getting people of all ages active and undertaking exercise in a bid to improve their health and wellbeing.
It is all about taking simple steps to make exercise part of your daily routine and reaping the benefits alongside potential weight loss, enhanced fitness, muscle gain or even improved socialisation.
The Mixed Martial Arts classes at the Michael Sobell Sp[orts Centre, Aberdare, are held every Sunday from 10am until noon, and from noon until 2pm.
The classes are full contact but sparring and grappling are optional. For further details call the Michael Sobell Sports Centre, Aberdare, on 01685 874323.
To find out what activities and classes are held at Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s 11 Leisure Centres visit our leisure pages at www.rctcbc.gov.uk/leisure
