Why do you want to get a good workout early in the morning?

"Why do you want to get a good workout early in the morning? Well, because it sends more oxygen to your brain; it releases endorphins. It puts you in a state of mind where you can crush things, which is where you want to be." These powerful words from Jocko Willink reveal a fundamental truth about the connection between physical effort and mental strength. To rise early and engage in a rigorous workout is not merely an act of building the body, but of sharpening the mind. In the ancient world, the warrior’s preparation was not limited to the skills of battle; it included the cultivation of a disciplined body and a focused mind. Willink’s words speak to the timeless idea that physical endurance translates into mental clarity and focus—a combination that allows one to face life’s challenges with strength and resolve.

In the ancient Greek tradition, the pursuit of both mind and body was regarded as the highest form of balance. The Greeks created the Olympic Games not just as a display of physical prowess, but as a way to honor the gods and to celebrate the union of mental and physical excellence. The philosophers, too, recognized the need for a strong body as a foundation for a clear mind. Socrates himself was known to engage in vigorous exercise, believing that a healthy body was essential for a healthy mind. The early morning workout, a practice that Willink champions, would have been understood by these ancient figures as not merely physical training but as a spiritual and mental preparation—a way to prepare the soul to tackle the complexities of life.

Consider the example of Leonidas, the Spartan king who led his 300 warriors to battle against the Persians at Thermopylae. Leonidas was not only a commander in battle, but a man who had spent his life in rigorous training—physical and mental discipline were his life’s foundation. His warriors, the legendary Spartans, were known for their incredible discipline, their ability to endure extreme hardships, and their mental fortitude. They did not merely train for the sake of battle, but to create a mindset of resilience and courage that would allow them to face death itself without fear. Just as Willink speaks of the benefits of a morning workout, Leonidas and his soldiers would have understood the value of preparing their bodies and minds for the tasks ahead, creating a state of mind where they could crush the challenges before them, no matter the odds.

The Romans, too, understood the link between physical conditioning and mental clarity. Cicero, the great philosopher and statesman, was known for his dedication to exercise. He believed that physical well-being was essential to mental clarity and the ability to make wise decisions. In his writings, he stressed the importance of balancing the demands of the mind and the body, recognizing that the great leaders of the world were those who took care of both. For Cicero, and for many ancient Romans, the discipline to keep the body strong and fit was seen as equally important as cultivating the mind. To be mentally sharp, one needed to be physically fit, as the two were intricately linked. Willink's emphasis on the morning workout as a tool to energize both body and mind echoes this ancient wisdom: it is not enough to be mentally prepared; one must also prepare the body to face the world.

The ancient practice of warrior training is not merely about building strength but about developing character and resilience. In Willink’s words, the purpose of the morning workout is not just about the physical act of exercise, but about creating a state of mind—a mindset that allows one to approach the day with focus, clarity, and the resolve to face any challenge. It is a practice that goes beyond the immediate, beyond the simple act of training, and becomes a tool for achieving greatness in all aspects of life. Endorphins, those natural chemicals released during exercise, provide a sense of euphoria, but more importantly, they cultivate a sense of confidence and power. Willink understands that this mental transformation is the key to success—it is not just about physical strength, but about how that strength can fuel the mind to achieve excellence in all things.

The lesson that Willink offers is a lesson in discipline and focus. If we wish to succeed in life, we must first prepare ourselves mentally and physically. Each morning presents a new opportunity to train, to sharpen our minds, to cultivate resilience, and to face the day with the energy and purpose necessary to overcome any obstacles. The ancient warriors knew this well—the morning practice was not just a routine, but a tool for shaping their day, their destiny, and their legacy. In the same way, Willink calls us to see our daily workouts as more than mere physical preparation, but as mental conditioning that can lead us to success.

In practical terms, this means committing to a routine that nurtures both body and mind. Just as Socrates and Cicero valued the balance between intellectual and physical strength, we too must dedicate ourselves to a daily practice that strengthens us in all aspects. Whether it is through exercise, meditation, or reflection, we must find the discipline to engage in the habits that will prepare us for the challenges ahead. Willink teaches us that the act of preparing ourselves physically each morning is an act of empowerment—it is a commitment to being ready, to showing up with energy, and to meeting the day with a mindset that is primed to succeed. Through this practice, we not only strengthen our bodies but fortify our resolve, ensuring that we are always in the best possible position to crush the challenges before us.