EFC boss heralds African MMA milestone

Cape Town - EFC president Cairo Howarth says the launch of the EFC Performance Institute in Johannesburg is a major milestone for African MMA.

The training centre, which is kitted out by Technogym and includes a hexagon, will open its doors to the public on February 1.

Reality TV show The Fighter Season 2 is currently being filmed at the new facility in Paulshof.

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“The EFC Performance Institute is like no other training facility in Africa,” Howarth said.

“With Technogym’s cutting-edge technology and equipment, combined with the best combat sport equipment, gear and facilities, we have a world-class training facility to help anyone wanting improve their performance or simply get a workout and learn skills in a professional and friendly environment.

“This is a massive milestone for EFC and the sport of MMA in Africa.”

Technogym Southern Africa co-CEO Tony Payne added: “Technogym is proud to be the partner to the EFC Performance Institute.

“The centre offers the latest in training technologies and equipment for the highest level of athletic performance training, inspired by sport and Technogym’s 20-year history being the exclusive equipment provider to the Olympic Games.”

The EFC Performance Institute features:

- A full-size EFC hexagon

- An OUTRACE Frame, one of the first in Africa, standing at 9x7m in the main functional training area

- The SKILLATHLETIC studio, which includes free-running SKILLMILL, SKILLROW and SKILLBIKE

- A Boxfit area, kitted out with 6-foot boxing bags and other fitness equipment for daily use

- Over 100m² of Zebra mats for wrestling or Brazilian Jiu-jitsu needs. Added to the area are several boxing bags, offering users the ability to mix up their grappling with some striking

- An Olympic lifting, free-weights and cardio area. Fitted with SIDEA free weights, assisted lifting machines, barbells, dumbbells and kettlebells, plus Technogym JOG Treadmills, Groupcycle spinning bikes and VARIO elliptical machines

- An equipment and merchandise store