Warrior /
RIAN
24, COMPANY DIRECTOR, LEINSTER IE
TRAINED AT SBG DUBLIN
COMPLETED 2020
What were you fighting for? What was your ‘why’?
"I started it with the goal of getting a basic understanding of mama with the hope to keep training after the 20 weeks. I wanted to try something new, as my whole life I played rugby but never really loved it. I really wanted to push myself and mma is a sport where you have to be a completely disciplines athlete so I liked the idea of getting my shit together. On top of that you learn how to defend yourself, which makes you a great deal more confidents in daily life. When you step into the gym and onto the mats, none of the external problems you face are present - they all go away. nothing else matters at the time. All your focus goes into the sessions so it is a nice change of pace."
What did you get out of the program physically?
"I was 108kg of fat. Now I'm 82kg. My recent fight was at 76kg and I'm working to get to a walk around weight of 78kg. That's just the physical side of things. Everyone around me knows I'm a much less angry & more focused person now. I am more disciplined and as a result a lot happier with myself and the person I am becoming. Every day is a new chance to learn."
What were some of the mental and emotional outcomes you experienced?
"I did gain a huge amount of confidence but with that came a lot of humbling experiences, which I thinks made me a much better person. I am also very grateful on a daily basis for what I get to do every day."
What did you learn about yourself?
"I learned that the people around you can either build you up or tear you down. Since the program I've become friends with a few high level athletes and they've shown me if you work hard every day and push yourself you can get good."
Did Warrior Training lead to any long term changes in your life, and if so what were they?
"I've lost a substantial amount of weight, I train twice a day and recently started training on the mma team in SBG. I've made like-minded friends who push me hard and believe in me."
What would you say to someone thinking about starting the Warrior Training Program?
"I've told so many of my friends it's a great experience. the benefits are just a bonus. It's crazy but it's very enjoyable waking up early to go in and learn a new skill and better yourself while making new friends."