6 Martial Arts Drills to Build MENTAL TOUGHNESS

The Pen and Sword Journal - Vol 72

The air was thick, 38°C (100°F), and my sweat pooled on the gym floor like spilled ink. Years ago, one month before my fight, I’d wake at dawn to run circuits in the suffocating heat, then spar until my gloves felt like cement blocks.

My coach's voice broke through the fog:

“If you break now, you’ll break in the ring.”

Those weeks taught me that mental toughness isn’t about ignoring pain. Rather, it's about facing it, understanding it, and not letting it set your limits.

Taking inspiration from that memory and many others during my journey as a martial artist, In this article, I'll share 6 drills that combine tough martial arts practices with lessons from some of the hardest training environments. They’re perfect for training your mind to thrive “in the fire”.

Disclaimer: Before attempting these exercises, ensure you have no health issues (especially cardiovascular ones) and consult with a medical professional or a qualified trainer. Safety is paramount. Building mental toughness in mart…