1992-2013-ROOTS

Early Years: Martial Arts, Strength Training & Endurance

Born in 1992 into a large family with six siblings, discipline and resilience were ingrained from an early age. With a father who was a black belt Judo trainer, structured training was not just a routine—it was a way of life. Growing up on the Judo mat, competing nationally across Europe, shaped not only athletic capabilities but also mental toughness.

While Judo provided a strong foundation in combat sports, the holistic approach instilled by his mother played a crucial role in overall health and longevity. Nutrition, physiotherapy, osteopathy, and sauna therapy were not just auxiliary practices but fundamental pillars in recovery and performance optimization.

Between the ages of 13 and 15, he took his training to the next level by attending a boarding school dedicated to Judo. Here, under the guidance of elite coaches and a former national powerlifting coach, he developed:

·         Olympic lifting and strength fundamentals.

·         The resilience required for high-performance training.

·         Early insights into body mechanics and injury prevention—knowledge that later evolved into physiotherapy expertise.

At just 15, he stepped into a mentorship role, beginning his coaching journey in Judo. This marked the start of a lifelong commitment to teaching and guiding others on their athletic paths.

2009-2013: Expanding Athletic & Mental Conditioning

While Judo remained a central discipline, curiosity and the drive to expand athletic ability led to the exploration of striking sports such as Boxing and Muay Thai. The transition was not just about adding new skills but about deepening the understanding of movement, power generation, and adaptability across different combat styles.

During this phase, yoga made its first appearance—not as a spiritual practice, but as a tool for recovery. What began as a means to improve flexibility and prevent injuries gradually evolved into a deeper embodiment practice, influencing movement efficiency and overall performance.

With a strong foundation in strength training, the integration of CrossFit-style workouts began before they became mainstream. This training method combined:

·         Olympic lifting for explosive strength.

·         High-intensity circuits to push metabolic conditioning.

·         Functional mobility work to improve movement efficiency and reduce injury risks.

Endurance Training & the Mindset Shift

Athletic progression wasn’t just limited to strength and combat sports. The endurance world presented new challenges, leading to:

·         2011: Completion of the first half marathon.

·         2013: A second half marathon finished in 1:08, under the mentorship of an eight-time German marathon champion.

These experiences led to a crucial realization: Movement was no longer just about strength or competition—it was about longevity, adaptability, and self-mastery. The body was a tool, and training was the key to unlocking its full potential.

Conclusion: A Life Built on Movement

From martial arts and Olympic lifting to endurance challenges and holistic recovery, this journey illustrates that true athleticism extends beyond competition. Strength is not just about power, but about adaptability, resilience, and balance. The fusion of structured training, diverse movement practices, and mindful recovery creates a sustainable approach to performance that lasts a lifetime.

This journey is a testament to the fact that movement is more than a sport—it’s a philosophy. Whether through Judo, striking sports, weightlifting, or endurance training, the path of self-mastery continues, proving that the pursuit of excellence never truly ends.