Training in combat sports has sharpened my ability to stay calm under pressure — a skill that directly translates into running a business. Sparring teaches you to process stress in real time, adapt strategies mid-round, and keep a clear head when things don't go as planned. It's also taught me the discipline of consistent improvement: in both the gym and the boardroom, you can't just rely on talent; you need structured practice, feedback, and resilience to push through setbacks.
Hi, Having been into fitness religiously for years now, I've tried to incorporate multiple forms of training, including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for years, in my weekly routine. I've even earned a black belt in BJJ. I find that combat training provides a high intensity, full body workout, improving cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength, flexibility, balance, coordination and agility. Most importantly, I find this training functional and effective for daily movements and flexibility. Combat sports also require more focus, which releases more endorphins and helps you deal with stress greatly. BJJ sessions act as anchors for my week, keeping me grounded, calm and focused. Focusing on aspects often ignored in daily life, such as positioning, tactics, reaction times, etc., makes me feel energized and motivated. The wide variety of techniques also demands more self-discipline and persistence, which builds physical and mental toughness, endurance and consistency that translate into all personal and professional endeavors. The greatly improved cardiovascular health, fitness and stress reduction improve cognitive function significantly. The focus on anticipating your opponent's moves and reacting to things with calm and calculation improves your mental clarity and decision-making skills throughout life. Furthermore, partner drills, mentorship and community classes, staples of combat sport training, build collaboration within an ethics-oriented environment. Cheers! Shailen, BikingBro.com
I am a 57-year-old CEO of a business law firm with nine branches. A few years ago, I took my kids to my friend's taekwondo dojang because they were being lazy. Rather than just sitting there like the rest of the parents scrolling through their phones, I signed up too. While my kids moved onto other activities, I stuck around. It has been a great stress reliever and so grounding for me. It is also a community that gets my mind off the hectic pace of my work. I am even kind of amused at all the minor injuries I get, like a cracked bone in my foot I got sparring with that pesky Troy! It makes me feel young, vital and capable.
I run a data analytics consultancy and I am a purple belt in BJJ. BJJ helps me tremendously to cope with work-related stress. Once I started training 3-4 times per week I really felt the difference. After I train I feel like my mind goes quiet and I no longer think about the work-related problems. I really feel like BJJ helps me to switch off and just enjoy my time off work. I also love my BJJ training because it is a chance for me to socialise. All my team is remote and based in several different countries. As a result, I spend my work days alone, sitting in front of my laptop. It is nice to go training at the end of the day and socialise with people face-to-face. Finally, when I don't train my body just starts aching. This distracts me from my work throughout the day and just makes me less happy. I do get injured regularly though but I would say that overall BJJ is a net positive for me!