A few weeks ago, I sat down with Chad ([full podcast](https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/proofofhealth/episodes/1-How-Muay-Thai-Fighting-Saved-My-Life---Chad-Mane-e2pnbmp)), a seasoned Muay Thai fighter with over a decade of experience, to talk about life inside and outside the ring. Chad’s story is raw, intense, and unfiltered—a journey of struggle, discipline, and transformation. His insights left me reflecting on how combat sports, especially Muay Thai, can teach us profound lessons about resilience, focus, and the human spirit.

### **The Fight Beyond the Ring**

What struck me most was how Muay Thai isn’t just a sport for Chad—it’s a way of life. He began his journey as a teenager, struggling with family issues and uncertainty about his future. A chance meeting led him to Thailand, where he trained intensely and fought his first bout just 28 days later. Chad told me, “Muay Thai saved my life,” and I could feel the weight behind those words.

For Chad, the ring became a space to confront not just opponents but his own fears and insecurities. The process of training—the relentless hill sprints, countless kicks, and sparring sessions—taught him how to face challenges head-on. Fighting wasn’t about aggression; it was about finding strength in adversity.

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### **The Beauty in the Brutality**

One of the most fascinating things Chad shared was his perspective on pain and sacrifice. During his career, he’s endured broken ribs, countless stitches, and even fought with a broken nose for eight years before getting it fixed. “Pain is the best teacher,” he said, explaining how injuries forced him to adapt and improve.

What I found most compelling was how this physical suffering seemed to heighten his appreciation for life. Chad described moments after brutal training sessions when even a sunset or a simple breeze felt extraordinary. It’s as if the harshness of the ring makes the world outside it feel brighter, sharper, and more alive. “When you’re ready to die in the ring,” he said, “you start seeing life differently.”

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### **The Mental Battle**

Chad emphasized the mental aspect of fighting, something I hadn’t fully appreciated before. He talked about the mindset required to step into the ring: the inner dialogue where you convince yourself you’re ready to endure pain and push beyond limits. “You can play football or tennis, but you can’t play Muay Thai,” he said, driving home the seriousness of the sport.

Before a fight, Chad uses visualization to prepare himself for the intensity of combat. He doesn’t shy away from the danger but instead leans into it, fully accepting the risks. This mindset, he believes, is what separates good fighters from great ones.

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### **Lessons for Life**

While most of us won’t step into a Muay Thai ring, Chad’s experiences offer valuable lessons that apply to all areas of life:

- **Discipline Creates Freedom**: The structure of relentless training gave Chad a sense of purpose and control over his life.

- **Face Your Fears**: Whether it’s an elbow to the face or a difficult decision in life, avoidance only makes things worse.

- **Surround Yourself with the Right People**: Chad stressed the importance of training with people who push you to be better. “Energy matters,” he said, and I couldn’t agree more.

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### **Final Thoughts**

Chad’s story reminded me why I wanted to take on my own Muay Thai journey. It’s not just about fighting; it’s about testing yourself in ways that reveal who you really are. For Chad, the ring isn’t just a place to compete—it’s a place to grow, to learn, and to become a better version of himself.

After our conversation, I realized that the lessons of Muay Thai go beyond the gym. Whether you’re training for a fight or tackling challenges in everyday life, the principles of resilience, discipline, and self-reflection are universal.

If you’re curious to learn more about Chad’s journey, I highly recommend watching the [documentary](https://youtu.be/GPug-MuCKKY) we worked on together. It’s a glimpse into the raw, unforgiving world of Muay Thai—and the unshakable spirit of those who live it.

Stay Healthy - Max