MEDIA CONTEST: MMA class provides PT alternative

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ACC MEDIA CONTEST --  Running and lifting weights are great ways to stay in shape but for those tired of pounding the pavement and pumping iron, there is a new option.

Troops from the 116th Air Control Wing have combined their skills and knowledge to start a mixed martial arts class as an alternative to traditional squadron physical training.

1st Lt. Nick Strocchia, 12th Airborne Command and Control Squadron, 1st Lt. Dennis Cetrone, 330th Combat Training Squadron and Capt. Eric Masino, 128th Airborne Command and Control Squadron are the brains behind the new class. They say the doors are open to anyone willing to learn.

"Anyone can participate, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is an intimidating martial art at first, but if someone can press through a couple classes of bruises and bumps they will more likely than not begin to enjoy the class a great deal," said Strocchia. "BJJ was created with the little guy in mind; force manipulated in the right manner carries much further than brute strength."

The class will focus on BJJ, Muay Thai kickboxing, Wado Kai karate, boxing and Chinese boxing, for beginners who want to learn for recreation and fitness or for experienced fighters wishing to compete.

"BJJ is a primary ground art where emphasis is placed on submissions rather than
striking," said Strocchia. "Muay Thai is a kickboxing form that is very powerful when properly trained; Wado Kai Karate is Japanese style that uses hand, foot and Jiu
Jitsu technique, Chinese Boxing uses a unique execution that is somewhat different from the Traditional Western style that is taught as well."

Participating in the class is free and little or no equipment is necessary.

"A Gi (heavy weight martial arts uniform) is preferred, but an old BDU top will work just fine," said Strocchia. "Some people train with a mouthpiece which can be obtained from the dental clinic for free. Bag gloves would be a plus, but if you do not have a pair we can provide."

Strocchia insists that the one thing that participants must bring to class is a good attitude and a willingness to learn.

"People should have an open and relaxed state of mind, anger and frustration are not to your advantage in BJJ," said Strocchia. "We try to make a respectful and fun environment and expect the same behaviors in return."

The two-hour weekly class contains a variety of instruction.

"We start off with 5 minutes of warm up followed by 10 minutes to stretch," said Strocchia. "Then we go into 30 minutes of BJJ instruction and live grappling for 15-20 minutes. The second portion of class consists of stand up fighting which follows in a similar manner minus the live training."

The class instructors have high hopes for the class and encourage everyone to attend.
"We want to get a great group of people together every week that have a common interest in wanting to train," said Strocchia. "We want to form a club full of comradery."
The class is held in high regards by the current participants.

"I would definitely recommend the class to anyone even mildly interested in MMA," said 2nd Lt. Eric Wong, 330th CTS air weapons officer. "This class is not only a great workout, run by true professionals, but also a commune for each participant to share their knowledge and technique. The atmosphere is welcoming and anyone new, with the right attitude, will surely gain great insight about the art and themselves."

The mixed martial arts class will not only improve one's fitness but also improve one's life.

"BJJ is a fantastic martial art that preaches 'control without control' meaning that if you are relaxed and accepting of the challenges that come your way, you will be more flexible with your counter to them," said Strocchia. "I think that mantra can be carried throughout any aspect of life."

The class is held every Wednesday from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. For more information e-mail 1st Lt. Nick Strocchia at nicholas.strocchia@garobi.ang.af.mil.