When people ask me what keeps me sharp as an investor, entrepreneur, and leader, they expect me to talk about books, podcasts, or networking strategies. And while those are all part of the equation, I always come back to something much more basic: fitness.

Physical fitness isn’t just about having a strong body—it’s about having a strong mind, consistent energy, and the discipline to lead effectively in a high-pressure environment. I’ve experienced firsthand how staying active and committed to health has improved my decision-making, resilience, and performance in the business world. And I believe more founders should treat their fitness like a business asset—because it is.

Let’s dive into why fitness matters so much, especially for leaders.

Fitness Builds Mental Clarity

When I’m training—whether it’s lifting, running, or even just a solid morning workout—I’m not thinking about emails or board meetings. That time allows me to clear my mind and reset. And more often than not, I walk away with new clarity on a problem I’ve been turning over in my head.

There’s real science behind this. Physical exercise increases blood flow to the brain and boosts the production of endorphins, both of which enhance cognitive function. For founders constantly facing complex decisions, that mental clarity is priceless.

Some of my best business insights haven’t come during a meeting—they’ve come mid-run or right after finishing a workout. Fitness fuels fresh thinking.

Discipline in the Gym Translates to Discipline in Business

Fitness teaches consistency. No one builds strength or endurance overnight. It takes time, repetition, and commitment—just like building a company. I’ve found that the discipline I’ve cultivated through training carries over to how I operate professionally.

Waking up early for a workout requires the same mindset as pushing through a late-night deck or staying the course on a tough investment. It’s about showing up, day in and day out, even when it’s hard. That grit, that habit of consistency, becomes a superpower when applied to business.

I’ve also found that being intentional with my time in the gym makes me more intentional with my time everywhere else. That structure helps me stay focused and effective.

Energy Is a Competitive Advantage

Let’s be honest—running a business can be exhausting. Between fundraising, team management, product development, and everything in between, founders are constantly in motion. If you don’t have your energy in check, it’s easy to burn out.

Staying physically fit helps me maintain high energy levels throughout the day. It’s not just about avoiding that afternoon crash—it’s about being able to show up as the best version of myself in every meeting, every conversation, every pitch.

When you’re physically healthy, you recover faster from stress, you sleep better, and you carry a stronger presence. And in leadership, presence matters.

Fitness Creates Routine—and Routine Creates Momentum

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that success often comes down to momentum. When you start your day with a win—like crushing a workout—you carry that momentum into the rest of the day.

Fitness creates a routine. And for founders, who often live in a world of chaos, that kind of reliable rhythm can be grounding. My morning workouts are non-negotiable. Not because I’m chasing aesthetic goals, but because they set the tone for my mindset.

That simple act of doing something hard, something structured, builds confidence and momentum. It’s a daily reminder that I can handle challenges—and that confidence bleeds into everything else I do.

You Lead Better When You Feel Better

This one’s big. When you’re not taking care of your body, it eventually shows up in your leadership. You’re more irritable. Less patient. Less focused. And people notice.

On the flip side, when you feel strong, confident, and energized, your team feels it too. Leadership is as much about how you carry yourself as what you say. Fitness helps me show up with more presence, more patience, and more positivity. That energy is contagious—and it elevates the whole team.

Plus, let’s be real: leadership comes with stress. Lots of it. Having an outlet like fitness is critical for managing that stress in a healthy way. I’d rather take it out on a punching bag than bottle it up and let it bleed into how I treat my team.

Making It Happen: No Excuses

I get it—founders are busy. But that’s not an excuse to skip fitness. In fact, it’s the reason you need it more than ever. I’m not saying you need to train like a pro athlete. Start small. 20 minutes a day. A short jog, a quick strength session, a walk during calls. The key is to move your body and build the habit.

You don’t need fancy equipment or a personal trainer. You need commitment. You need to understand that taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s smart. Your business, your investors, your team—they all benefit when you’re at your best.

Final Thoughts

I’ve lived on both sides: the grind with no boundaries and the grind supported by health and fitness. I’ll take the latter every time. Fitness is more than a lifestyle—it’s a leadership tool. It helps you think better, work harder, and show up stronger.

For any founder reading this: invest in your health the same way you invest in your business. Because ultimately, you are the most important asset in the company.