QUESTION: HOW DO I GET READY FOR MY FIRST SMOKER?

By Daniel Nguyen

Smokers, interclubs, or exhibitions (whatever your preferred nomenclature) are friendly fights set up between gyms. Usually there will not be any judging involved nor will the results be on an official record. Fighters are encouraged to use clean technique and contact is limited to “just shy” of full strength.

You might feel that smokers are trivial and inconsequential considering the factors above.

Quite the opposite, a smoker is a huge milestone for fighters who are ready to take their training to the next level. It is the opportunity to utilize all the tools learned during the long hours in the gym and apply them under pressure.

There is never a set blueprint for someone entering their first fight, but fear not – we’ll go over some of the important steps that should be taken prior to your very first smoker.

STEP #1: Build Endurance

Stamina should be the essential concern when it comes to performance in a smo...