What it Feels Like to be an MMA Fighter [SPONSORED]

I have always wondered how a fighter trains and how they get fight-ready. While I wasn't ready to spar with this MMA fighter, I did want her to put me through the paces.

I paid a visit to Northern Illinois Combat Club & Fitness on North 2nd Street in Loves Park, IL. Besides being a gym where anyone can workout, they also specialize in training fighters in many styles. This was going to be a perfect place for me to get a closer look at what it's like to be an MMA fighter. Since I don't know any current MMA fighters, I asked NICC&F owner, Shayne Adams, if I could pick one from the poster advertising the Shamrock Throwdown. NICC&F is one of the sponsors of the event on March 21st.

After watching Ronda Rousey defeat so many opponents so quickly and hearing that Mike Tyson said, "Ronda might kick my a--", I wanted one of the women in poster to show me the 'ropes'... and the cage. I'm glad I did. Rickie Gomes was an amazing teacher. She's an award winning striker and can kick so hard it's scary. Rickie showed me how dangerous the armbar move is for the victim. This is the move Ronda Rousey has used to win almost everyone of her fights. Rickie also put me through many other armlock moves, all of which would've put me in the hospital if I was her opponent. She also flipped me and put me completely out on my back. And if you've ever wondered if training like a fighter will keep you lean, Rickie just had a baby a little over a year ago.

If you'd like to get tickets to see Rickie Gomes and other great fighters at the Shamrock Throwdown, call Northern Illinois Combat Club & Fitness at (888) 969-7149. Rickie will be fighting to raise funds and awareness for Pink Heals of Winnebago County.