Knowledge day for ringside physicians an important step in professionalisation

Ringside physicians play a key role in combat sports. They safeguard the health of combat sports athletes around competitions. This aspect of combat sports is also being further professionalised under the direction of the VA (Nederlandse Vechtsportautoriteit, the Dutch combat sports authority), because it serves the interests of the athletes. In that context, the first knowledge day for ringside physicians took place this week.

Some thirty ringside physicians gathered in Breukelen to exchange experiences and learn about the latest insights in this field. Chaired by Bas Pijnenburg, himself an experienced ringside physician for the UFC among others and also a board member of the VA, attention was paid to Basic Life Support, the annual medical examination for fighters currently being developed, weight cutting, the pre- and post-fight check and the state of affairs regarding studies into neurological damage. Very practical matters were discussed as well: how are ringside physicians organised and what about liability?

Afterwards, participants received a certificate of attendance and there was an opportunity to catch up informally and exchange further ideas. Given the good turnout and the enthusiasm of both participants and organisers, this will not have been the last knowledge day for ringside physicians.