Training in My Mid-30s: How I Make It Work Before 9AM

When I tell people about my training schedule, the most common reaction is a mix of surprise and disbelief. Waking up at 4:45 AM, training every morning, and winding down for bed before 9 PM might sound crazy to some, but for me, it’s the rhythm that keeps me sharp, focused, and moving forward in life and on the mats.

As I approach 35 this March, I’ve come to realize that training smarter, not harder, is the key to longevity in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. My schedule is designed to balance intense workouts, recovery, and time for the other parts of my life, all while fitting it into a timeframe that many people reserve for sleep. Here’s a breakdown of what a typical week looks like:

Monday, Wednesday, Friday: Morning Rolls at Webb MMA

My week kicks off with Jiu-Jitsu sessions at Webb MMA from 5:30 to 7 AM. These classes set the tone for my day and give me the technical edge I crave. Training early means I’m mentally clear and physically fresh, without the distractions of work or daily life creeping in. The quiet focus of early-morning rolls is unbeatable, and it’s where I make the most progress in my game.

Tuesday: Functional Training at Wolf BJJ

On Tuesdays, I switch gears and work out with a trainer at Wolf BJJ from 6:30 to 8 AM. The sessions are tailored around Jiu-Jitsu-specific movements, stability drills, and injury prevention. As much as I love rolling, I know that focusing on the smaller details—balance, mobility, and core strength—keeps me agile and reduces the risk of injuries.

Thursday: Hot Yoga and Strength Training

Thursdays are my mix-it-up days. I start with hot yoga from 6 to 7 AM at Laughing Buddha. It’s a chance to reset, work on flexibility, and get a mental breather from the grind. Afterward, I head to Wolf BJJ for a strength training session from 7:30 to 9 AM. These sessions are about building the power and endurance I need to keep up with the intensity of my training schedule.

Saturday: Optional Open Mat or Rest

Saturdays are my wildcard. If I’m feeling energized, I’ll hit an open mat at a local gym and mix it up with grapplers outside my regular circle. Other times, I’ll listen to my body and take the day off to recharge. Knowing when to rest is just as important as knowing when to push yourself.

Sunday: Total Rest Day

Every Sunday is sacred rest. No training, no workouts—just recovery and time with my wife. We always go out for breakfast, and it’s a tradition I look forward to all week. It’s the perfect way to decompress and reset before diving back into the grind.

Why This Works for Me

I know this schedule might sound crazy to some, but it works for me. Training before 9 AM means I’ve accomplished something significant before most people are out of bed. It sets a tone of discipline and productivity for the rest of the day. Going to bed before 9 PM might not sound glamorous, but it ensures I’m well-rested and ready to attack the day when the alarm goes off at 4:45 AM.

Consistency is what makes this routine sustainable. I’ve learned to prioritize quality over quantity and recovery over burnout. At 35, I’m not chasing the wild, all-day training sessions I used to enjoy in my 20s. Instead, I’m focused on improving at a steady pace, keeping my body healthy, and loving every second I spend on the mats.

One of my favorite training partners, Nnamdi, put it best when he said:
"If I’m not pushing myself, how will I ever know the limits? I get up at 4 AM to do this."

That mindset resonates with me deeply. It’s not just about the physical gains, but about discovering what I’m truly capable of through discipline and persistence.

If you’re balancing life, work, and Jiu-Jitsu, I encourage you to find a schedule that works for you—even if it looks a little unconventional. What matters is staying consistent and making time for what you’re passionate about.

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