Fitness Australia issues 'combat sport' guidance

Peak industry body Fitness Australia has released a set of safety guidelines to provide clarification for registered exercise professionals and fitness services using fitness activities derived from boxing, kickboxing and mixed martial arts drills (MMA).

Explaining the release of the guidelines, a Fitness Australia statement read "recently there has been a steady increase in the use of boxing, kickboxing or mixed martial arts drills (MMA) as a part of general fitness sessions or as specialised classes within the fitness industry.

"The rising popularity and increased demand for these activities has led to a concurrent increase in the number of related continuing education programs for registered exercise professionals.

"While these developments have undoubtedly provided another important source of variety for general fitness training, safe practice that mitigates the risk of injury and enhances effectiveness must be maintained at all times."

The guidelines can be read by clicking on the link at the base of this news item.

Meanwhile, NSW Minister for Sport and Recreation, Graham Annesley, has announced that the NSW Government is seeking feedback on proposals to significantly strengthen the regulations governing the administration and functions of the combat sports industry.

Explaining the potential regulations, Minister Annesley stated "the combat sports industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years requiring enhanced legislation that will better protect the health and safety of participants as well as the integrity of combat sport contests.

"We have looked at the Combat Sports Act 2008 and identified a number of issues, particularly in amateur combat sports held for public entertainment.

"The current provisions of the Act have deficiencies that encourage professional contests to be reported as amateur contests, which may lead to unacceptable health, safety and corruption risks.

"Some progress has been made to implement changes to the combat sports sector, but amended legislation is required to ensure the sport prospers as it grows.

"A Discussion Paper on the proposed amendments to the Combat Sports Act 2008 has been developed, which sets out some of the issues associated with the industry.

"While the paper doesn't reflect a final position it does provide the opportunity for broader stakeholder consultation about any proposed changes.

"I encourage everyone with an interest in combat sports to forward their views on the Discussion Paper and proposed reforms."

Submissions on the Discussion paper can be lodged on line up to and including Tuesday 11th September 2012.

For more information contact the Sport and Recreation division of the NSW Office of Communities on 131 302 or go to http://bit.ly/On3Nmn