A challenge for many of GAMMA members is the ability to generate income. Recognising this, the organisation and Cognitive Athletics have created opportunities for members to increase their revenue streams whilst using technology to enhance training. 

This technology has already been successfully applied to a variety of martial arts styles such as grappling and striking and is also being integrated into the training programmes of sports such as football, basketball, and rugby. 

Through the creation of World Club Cognitive Athletics Championships for members to compete in, and the organisation of Cognitive Athletics Championships at national and club level, member federations can obtain the following benefits: 

-Receive USD 3,000 per year from Cognitive Athletics for hosting the National Championships each year. 

-Receive an additional USD 3,400 - USD 27,000 upon further achievement of agreed targets with Cognitive Athletics. 

-Cognitive Athletics will provide all necessary equipment and comprehensive training on its use, as well as guidance on the effective organisation of the competitions.

The competition format of the Cognitive Athletics Championships is simple. Competitors are assessed on their reaction time, decision making, timing, and explosive power. This not only provides a benchmark of their athletic and cognitive abilities that can be measured over time but also ensures engaging and competitive events. 

To further stimulate participation and interest, Cognitive Athletics has set aside USD 138,000 (€123,131) in bonuses for participating member federation clubs whose athletes are ranked at the Cognitive Athletics Martial Arts World Clubs Championship in Series 3 which runs from September to December. This bonus scheme underlines our commitment to helping member federations generate additional income. 

The pilot series, which ran from January to April 2024 saw over 500 participants and USD 34,550 (€30,827) distributed in bonuses, highlighting the potential and success of this initiative. 

Members Czech Republic and Croatia participated in the pilot series, while Thailand, Slovakia and Argentina competed in Series 2 of the Cognitive Athletics Martial Arts World Clubs Championship, which concluded at the end of July. The first-placed team took home USD 15,000 (€13,384) in bonus money. 

In addition, the Global Mixed Martial Arts Association is working on a concept to add Cognitive Athletics as a discipline alongside MMA, and Striking MMA in the future. This follows the move by the Olympic Movementto further develop the Esports movement, with the International Olympic Committee initiating the Olympic Esports Games. 

GAMMA is the world governing body for Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), with a vision to develop the amateur and grassroots sport and lead it to formal international recognition. Led by President Alexander Engelhardt and headquartered in the Netherlands, GAMMA provides a global platform for MMA participants through the growth of a safe, inclusive and well-regulated sport that serves as a positive force worldwide.