Although both boxing and MMA have been around for quite some time now, it seems as though they are now blowing up with popularity. The youth of today is choosing to get in the ring nearly as much as they are picking up a football or swinging a bat. The question that is raised by this shocking information, is why?

Well first things first, the media plays a huge role on society and the choices that people make. As your flipping through the channel, there is a very good chance that on at least two channels, you will come across a bout between two fighters; rather they are boxing or having it out in a mixed martial arts match. Watching two highly trained athletes go at it with the chance of a split second knockout blow is extremely intriguing. Likewise, recent movies like "Never Back Down" have viewers anxious to find the nearest MMA gym and get started with the sport. It's really not surprising to see how much it has grown over the years, but here are the reasons you should consider putting on the gloves.

1. First off let's face it; we are in a world where self defense is almost completely necessary. Everyday people are robbed or beaten up for sometimes absolutely no reason. Knowing that, having at least some basic knowledge of self defense isn't exactly a bad idea.To be honest if I was a robber on the verge of attacking someone and they threw a kick at my head, I would most definitely think twice!

2. Next, there are always those people that are looking for more in a workout, and need something that will push them to the edge. Well, the workout of a fighter will do just that. The specific things they do are extremely intense and exhausting, forcing them to push it to a limit that they never sought possible. If you're sick of those diets and weight loss programs that just aren't working, try one of these workouts for just two weeks. I bet you will sweat more than you ever thought likely. This kind of vigorous activity is perfect for any adrenaline junky.

3. Unfortunately for me, when I'm angry, screaming in a pillow or counting down from 10 does absolutely nothing to calm me down. Now, channeling my anger into a single punch can definitely do the trick. What I'm getting at is organized MMA/ boxing is extremely good for relieving stress or any built up anger. If you get mad or need to take the edge off, go down to the gym and let a couple fly on the punching bag or a sparring partner and I guarantee you will feel better when you leave than when you got there.

4. The more and more I get older, I'm starting to realize that the full split I once could do is dwindling down to me barely even being able to lift my leg passed my waist. Ever since I started my training, I'm almost back to a half split. Stretching is an important part of training, for the majority of techniques require decent extension of your legs. Therefore, for any person trying to increase their flexibility, this is perfect for you.

5. On a final note, you never exactly see one of these athletes with anything less than a ripped body and incredible physique. With that being said, who doesn't want a body like that? The training that they do is highly rigorous, yet extremely rewarding. The amount of calories burned in a single workout is mind blowing. So instead of maintaining the same old boring cyclic workout at the gym, what is stopping you from giving it a try? Who knows, you may even fall in love with it.

With these combat sports on such a steady up rise, it would be in your best interest to at least mildly get involved with them. What could it possibly hurt to be able to defend yourself, touch your toes, or have a ripped six pack?