Can I still do mma? And what should I do?

Question

Well I want to start mma (ive always wanted to) but I have this one problem. My nose! I have really really bad allergies and my nose is always stuffy and to make matters worse I have these painful little cuts inside my nose (im guessing from blowing to much) and I know i'll be taking hits in the nose. What should I do?

Answer 1

I have alergies too and I train.  Yours may be worse though.

I use nasal spray if it gets real bad to open up the airways, and you can use nasal strips.

I wouldn't worry so much about getting hit in the face and causing problems.  Training doesn't usually involve getting punched in the face, thats during the real fights.

Even then, you'll be on your guard and be able to slip/block.

Hope this helps.

Answer 2

how are your allergies/ nose when you are breathing hard?  can you breath...is it painful?  You need to realize that even in an MMA class that is not ground and pound, punching in the face type of training...it is still strenuous, a good workout but a tough one.  If you can handle a good workout without having trouble breathing then I would think you good still train.  Also, you will be rolling on the ground for  a good part of your training.  How is that going to affect your allergies?  No matter how clean it looks...there will be dust, dirt, lint, mixed in with sweat and well you can see what I mean.  Not necessarily anything filthy or downright nasty, but I am assuming you are not going to be the only one on the floor.  Some are very sensitive to stuff like this.  In the end- I would say try it - really try it- and see how you react.  See how it goes maybe during a free trial or something but explain it to your would be instructor...maybe he has experience with students like you.

Answer 3

You will not be taking hits to the face. MMA classes are not just full contact fighting. Sure you might bump your nose, but its not like they are going to punch you as initiation. Does your nose actually hurt badly if hit or bumped?  

Answer 4

boxers and mma fighters have a nasal spray they use to keep their nasal passages clear. some even wear nasal strips

go to title boxing's website and look for it.

also, see about getting allergy meds. what are you allergic to?

Answer 5

I have a similar problem from post nasal drip.  It makes me gag a lot and it is a constant battle.

As already mentioned nasal sprays and strips (they don't stay on long) may help.  Staying well hydrated seems to help my problem and avoiding dairy products.

Start with straight grappling and all that pressure and rubbing will toughen your more sensitive tissues up and get them accustomed to the activity.  Everybody has to experience the "owies" first before they get past it. The shoulder and elbow ligaments and tendons will go through the same toughening process.  Once you have calloused over some then start in on the striking and see how it works out.