Mike O’Hearn sits down with MMA legend Bas Rutten to discuss the value in teaching kids mixed martial arts and how it will lead to safer lives and not more violence
The latest episode of The Mike O’Hearn Show features a captivating conversation with the legendary Bas Rutten, a Dutch-American actor, former mixed martial artist, kickboxer, and professional wrestler. Rutten, a UFC Heavyweight Champion and three-time King of Pancrase world champion, shares his insights on martial arts, discipline, and the importance of learning from one’s mistakes.
Today’s society has become hyper vigilant and focused on tracking children and keeping them safe. The term “helicopter parent” has become widespread. Modern technology has led to a culture where parents want to know where their kid is at all times and ultimately put them into taking less risks.
This includes subjects in the fitness world as well. Parents are afraid to have children start lifting too early or playing certain contact sports. Why? Because they fear it is dangerous for their health.
However Mike O’Hearn and Bas Rutten believe this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, Rutten believes that teaching kids mixed martial arts is one of the greatest things you can do. It gets them off the couch, keeps them active, and teaches them discipline.
All things considered, a kid who knows how to fight will be safer – and not prone to more violence as many parents may believe. This week on the podcast, Bas Rutten breaks down why this is the case in great detail. Let’s dive in.
View this post on Instagram
RELATED: Get an inside look into the heart of MMA – watch The Hurt Business on digital today!
The Power of Martial Arts for Youth
Host Mike O’Hearn begins the discussion by asking Bas Rutten about the benefits of martial arts for the youth. Rutten reflects on his own experience, revealing that he started practicing martial arts at the age of 14 due to being bullied for a skin condition. The initial motivation was self-defense, but as he grew older, Rutten discovered the diverse disciplines and fighting styles that martial arts encompass.
Rutten emphasizes that martial arts instill discipline beyond physical prowess. It’s not about the ability to fight at any moment but understanding the power one possesses and discerning when to use it appropriately. Knowing self-defense can even deter potential conflicts, as people are less likely to engage with someone they perceive as a physical threat.
Martial Arts as Problem Solving
Bas Rutten expresses his belief that any sport is beneficial for kids, promoting physical activity, teamwork, discipline, and consistency. However, he highlights martial arts as a unique problem-solving sport. Beyond the physical aspects, it teaches children how to solve problems and think critically—a skill that extends beyond the dojo and into various aspects of life.
Rutten draws attention to Brazilian jiu-jitsu’s philosophy, emphasizing that its mission statement is to “never become a master.” This perpetual learning mindset encourages kids to approach life as constant students, fostering a love for lifelong learning.
Confidence and Taking Chances
Mike O’Hearn adds to the discussion, pointing out that confidence gained through martial arts can empower children to take more chances in life. While the confidence stems from physical capability, it translates into a willingness to embrace challenges and risks. Rutten echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the value of preparedness in all aspects of life.
The more secure an individual is in their own ability, the more they can leap forward and find success for themselves. While playing it safe can have some benefits, true success comes from putting yourself out there and risking defeat.
Being over protected only fosters insecurity and a lack of risk-taking. While that may prevent pain and failure, it also closes many doors towards success and discovering your true passions in life.
“Better to Have It and Not Need It”
Bas Rutten shares the common philosophy, stating, “It’s better to have a gun and not need it, than to need a gun and not have it.” In the context of martial arts, he explains that it’s better to know how to fight but never have to use that knowledge. Preparedness, according to Rutten, is a form of self-empowerment that can safeguard individuals from being taken advantage of in vulnerable situations.
Many parents and adults fear that sports like MMA and various other fighting styles and competitions breed a mindset of violence. They see the blood and broken bones on TV and fear that teaching this to children will only set them up for a dangerous life.
However, Bas Rutten points out that the most powerful MMA fighters are often the most calm and kind people outside of the cage. Mixed martial arts is a tool that can be used as sport – but it can also lead to a better sense of self discipline and protection. It ensures that you can protect yourself when all other options have failed.
In general, those who know how to fight are not blood thirsty criminals. They are kind folks who have a greater sense of ease and security because they know they can defend themselves if need be.
View this post on Instagram
Balancing Pushing Limits and Prioritizing Recovery:
The conversation shifts to the balance between pushing oneself and prioritizing recovery. Bas Rutten, reflecting on his own experiences, advises younger athletes to prioritize recovery. Acknowledging the fallacy of feeling invincible in youth, Rutten suggests that smarter training can lead to success without sacrificing long-term physical well-being.
Bas Rutten candidly discusses the impact of accumulated mistakes over time. Using the analogy of a kick maneuver, he explains how repetitive errors, even seemingly insignificant ones, can compound and affect one’s health and physical abilities in the long term. To counteract this, Rutten records his training sessions to identify and correct small errors, promoting longevity in his athletic career.
Wrap Up
The Mike O’Hearn Show‘s episode with Bas Rutten provides valuable insights into the world of martial arts, discipline, and maintaining longevity as an athlete. Rutten’s journey and philosophy serve as inspiration for both aspiring martial artists and individuals seeking a disciplined and empowered approach to life.
You can watch the full episode above. And don’t forget to check back every Friday for new episodes only on the Generation Iron Fitness Network or wherever podcasts are downloaded!
