Training in Action: Pad Work, Sparring & Drills
This is where the real work happens. See how we build speed, timing, and power through controlled pad work and technical sparring sessions at my XFF dojos across Mumbai.
Watch a fast-paced Muay Thai pad work session with one of my students. We drill combinations of punches, kicks, elbows, and knees to build speed, power, and cardio.
This is a technical sparring session focusing on timing and focus. It's not about power, but about touching, feeling the distance, and finding openings.
A clear, powerful demonstration of a high kick during a training session. This is what we work towards: technique, flexibility, and control.
A light-hearted but technical moment during a personal training session. We work hard, but it's also important to enjoy the process of learning.
A student practices a high kick on the pads. This drill is essential for developing the power and accuracy needed for effective kicks in MMA and kickboxing.
Another clip of a student practicing kicks on the pads. Repetition builds muscle memory, making the technique smooth and powerful.
This student is practicing an acrobatic kick, showing the level of athleticism and skill you can develop with consistent training.
About this collection
People think martial arts is just hitting pads hard, but the real magic is in the control. During these sessions, you aren't just throwing punches; you're learning how to read your opponent’s distance and movement. If you're coming to my dojo, be ready to sweat—there are no ACs or fancy amenities here, just real training with heavy bags, thai pads, and sweat.
Building the Fighter's Mindset
Real MMA isn't just about aggression. It is about technique. When you see us doing pad work in these clips, notice that we are not just swinging wildly. We are focused on:
- Distance Management: Learning where to stand so you hit them, but they cannot hit you.
- Timing: Understanding the precise moment to fire a jab or a low kick.
- Conditioning: Building the stamina to keep your hands up when you are tired.
Sparring: The Reality Test
Sparring at XFF is not a fight. It is a conversation. We do technical sparring to safely test what you have learned in drills. We focus on touching, feeling the opening, and reacting. Whether you are at our Khar West, Andheri, or Malabar Hill location, the process is the same: discipline first, power second.
What You Need to Bring
This is a traditional dojo. You don't need fancy gear, but you do need to be prepared.
- Bring your own gear: Every student must have their own hand wraps and gloves. It is about hygiene and taking responsibility for your equipment.
- Focus on Fundamentals: We work on basics like boxing, kickboxing, and Muay Thai because those basics save lives.
If you want a gym with AC and mirrors, this is not the place. If you want to build dum (guts) and learn real combat skills, come train with us.
Shafiq Shaikh
I am Shafiq Shaikh, and I have been running dojos in Mumbai since 2001. My training is about building real strength and discipline—whether you are a beginner or a fighter, the fundamentals stay the same. Come train at my dojo and see the difference for yourself.
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