What happens when discipline meets adversity? In a world where comfort wins too easily, true progress begins with facing hard challenges head-on. Joe De Sena talks with ZOOZ Fitness founder and adaptive coach Jake Weiner about building grit through adaptive training, creating community for athletes with disabilities, and turning mindset shifts into lasting confidence.
Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Learned:
- Mindset Reframing: Jake explains how shifting "I can't" to "I'll try" transforms both athletes and parents, proving that confidence is built one small win at a time.
- Adaptive Coaching Approach: Training without specialized equipment—just smarter coaching, personalized cues, and consistent feedback.
- Environment and Community Design: Creating a supportive gym culture where athletes mirror each other's discipline, replacing isolation with shared strength.
- Routine as Ritual: Building daily movement habits that anchor mindset and consistency—discipline treated like brushing your teeth.
- Perspective Shift Practice: Using the mantra "It could be worse" to ground gratitude and push through discomfort.
Closing Insight: "Discipline turns obstacles into opportunity—because every hard thing you face trains both body and mind."
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Timestamps:
[00:10] The Mission Behind ZOOZ Fitness
Jake explains how ZOOZ Fitness became a training ground for adaptive athletes.
[03:25] Reframing the Mindset
Jake shares how shifting mindset changes how athletes, parents, and coaches face challenges.
[11:48] Building Rituals That Outlast Motivation
Consistency beats intensity. Discipline becomes automatic when workouts are treated like daily hygiene.
[15:21] The Power of Community and Spartan Grit
Jake explains how his athletes train year-round for Spartan Races—proving that shared purpose and team energy build more than strength; they build resilience.
[20:40] A Lesson in True Commitment
One athlete skips Disneyland to make his workout. A reminder that when purpose is strong enough, excuses disappear.
