Tim Tebow Visits Gracie Academy to Begin MMA Training
In preparation for the 2012 NFL season, the New York Jets quarterback has decided to incorporate MMA training in his offseason workouts.
Earlier this week, he traveled to Torrance, Calif., to train with Ryron Gracie and UFC heavyweight Brendan Schaub at the Gracie Academy.
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Tebow apparently made a good impression. Gracie sent out a tweet on Wednesday praising the NFL star for a great training session.
"@TimTebow your athleticism/intelligence makes teaching Jiu jitsu even easier! @BrendanSchaub @RalekGracie stay alert! twitter.com/RyronGracie/stโฆ
โ Ryron Gracie (@RyronGracie) July 4, 2012"
MMA fighters are arguably the hardest-working athletes in the world, and an increasing number of athletes from other sports are jumping aboard to maximize their level of conditioning.
Tebow, who is a hard worker and somewhat of a gym rat, is taking the extra time to elevate his conditioning and improve his jiu-jitsu skills.
Schaub likely had a major hand in Tebow's decision to pursue MMA training. The two are good friends who have much in common besides a love for MMA.
The UFC heavyweight was also a professional football player. While he never made the main roster of an NFL team, Schaub was a member of the Buffalo Bills practice squad and the American Football League's Utah Blaze.
After Schaub's recent first-round knockout loss to Ben Rothwell, Tebow posted a few words of encouragement on Twitter for his fallen friend.
"@BrendanSchaub life is not about when you get knocked down but about having the perseverance to get back up. Proud of you brother #Heart
โ Tim Tebow (@TimTebow) April 22, 2012"
If anything, Tebow's interest in MMA will only bring more eyes to the sport. He is easily the most talked-about player in the NFL and one of the most polarizing athletes of all time.
This is especially a good thing for Schaub. Coming off back-to-back losses, he could certainly use some "Tebowing" right about now.
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