Hello, Pump It Up Magazine readers!
We are thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with an up-and-coming star in the world of mixed martial arts, Brady ‘Bam Bam’ Hiestand.
From his humble beginnings in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at just 12 years old to his ambitions of becoming a UFC champion, Brady Hiestand’s journey is both inspiring and full of determination. In this interview, we delve into his motivations, trainingroutines, career highlights, and personal passions. Whether you’re a long-time fan of MMA or just getting into the sport, Brady Hiestand’s story is sure to inspire and entertain.
So, grab your favorite drink and settle in for an engaging chat with one of the sport’s promising talents. Let’s get started!
PIUM: How did you get started in mixed martial arts?
Brady: I started BJJ [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu] when I was 12. My parent put me in because I didn’t like other sports
PIUM: What inspired you to pursue a career in MMA?
Brady: I didn’t want a desk job, didn’t know what else but knew I liked fighting
Training:
PIUM: How do you “pump up” your training routine to stay motivated?
Brady: Music, a little Nickelback get the blood pumpin
PIUM: Do you have any pre-fight rituals?
Brady: Eat with the family and team the night before
Career Highlights:
PIUM: What has been your most memorable fight and why?
Brady: My first fight on TUF [The Ultimate Fighter] against Josh Rettinghouse. He was a vet from Spokane and made believe I could make it in the UFC
PIUM: How do you deal with the ups and downs of your career?
Brady: It’s a marathon, not a race. Staying positive knowing that if I keep the course it will work out in the end
Personal Life:
PIUM: What are your interests outside of MMA?
Brady: My two dogs, girlfriend and families. Also food, I’m a fat kid at heart
PIUM: Who are your role models?
Brady: The OGs from Spokane: Mike Chiesa, Julianna Pena, and Sam Sicilia. Also some UFC legends like GSP [Georges St-Pierre], Dominick Cruz, Merab [Merab Dvalishvili] and of course Conor McGregor
Goals:
PIUM: What are your future goals in MMA?
Brady: To be a multiple time UFC champ
PIUM: What legacy do you hope to leave in the sport?
Brady: The best to ever do it
Advice:
PIUM: What advice would you give to aspiring fighters?
Brady: Just work hard, find/ build the right team and treat people right
Fun Fact:
PIUM: What’s something most people don’t know about you?
Brady: The plan is to build my legacy in the UFC and retire a real estate mogul
PIUM: If you could have dinner with any three people, who would they be and why?
Brady: Dana White, Mark Zuckerberg, and Donald Trump
Conclusion:
Thank you, Brady, for sharing your incredible journey and insights with us! For our readers who want to keep up with Brady Hiestand, be sure to follow him on Instagram and check out his profile on ESPN and Tapology.
Don’t miss his exciting fights and highlights on YouTube.
Here are some additional links to Brady’s fights and highlights:
- Fight Highlights 1
- Fight Highlights 2
- Interview Clip
- Fight Highlights 3
- Brady Hiestand Octagon Interview | UFC Vegas 71
- Fight Highlights 4
- Fight Highlights 5
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and interviews in Pump It Up Magazine!
– Photo by Elijah Ross @bearsbest
Brady’s training secrets and techniques that contribute to his success in mixed martial arts (MMA):
Consistency in Training: Brady emphasizes the importance of consistent training to build and maintain his skills. He trains regularly, focusing on both striking and grappling to stay well-rounded.
Balanced Routine: He incorporates a mix of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, and boxing in his training to develop a versatile skill set.
Strength and Conditioning: Brady includes strength and conditioning workouts to enhance his physical endurance, strength, and explosiveness. This helps him perform at his peak during fights.
Diet and Nutrition: He maintains a disciplined diet, ensuring he gets the necessary nutrients to fuel his training and recovery. He pays close attention to his weight, especially when preparing for fights.
Mental Preparation: Brady practices visualization techniques and meditation to stay mentally sharp and focused. He believes that mental strength is as important as physical strength in the fight game.
Sparring and Drilling: He engages in regular sparring sessions to simulate fight conditions and improve his timing and reflexes. Drilling specific techniques repeatedly helps him perfect his moves.
Recovery and Rest: Brady prioritizes rest and recovery to prevent injuries and keep his body in optimal condition. This includes getting enough sleep, using recovery tools like foam rollers, and occasionally taking days off from training.
Team and Coaching: He surrounds himself with a supportive team of coaches and training partners. They provide guidance, feedback, and motivation, helping him continuously improve.
Pre-Fight Rituals: Before fights, Brady follows specific rituals, such as eating with his family and team, which help him stay relaxed and focused.
Music and Motivation: He uses music, like Nickelback, to energize and motivate himself during training sessions.
Analyzing Opponents: Brady studies his opponents’ fighting styles and strategies to develop game plans tailored to exploit their weaknesses.
Adaptability: He stays open to learning new techniques and adapting his fighting style as needed. This flexibility allows him to stay ahead of the competition.
Test Your Mental Strength: Take the Quiz!
1. What do you do to manage stress?
- a) Exercise
- b) Meditate
- c) Talk to a friend
- d) All of the above
2. How often do you take time for yourself?
- a) Daily
- b) Weekly
- c) Monthly
- d) Rarely
3. What’s your go-to activity when you need a mental break?
- a) Reading a book
- b) Taking a walk
- c) Watching a movie
- d) Other: _______________
4. How do you practice mindfulness?
- a) Meditation
- b) Deep breathing exercises
- c) Journaling
- d) I don’t practice mindfulness
5. How do you feel about seeking help from a mental health professional?
- a) Very comfortable
- b) Somewhat comfortable
- c) Uncomfortable
- d) Haven’t thought about it
6. What’s one thing you do to stay positive?
- a) Positive affirmations
- b) Gratitude journaling
- c) Surrounding myself with positive people
- d) Other: _______________
7. How often do you check in with your emotions?
- a) Daily
- b) Weekly
- c) Monthly
- d) Rarely
8. How do you cope with feeling overwhelmed?
- a) Take a break
- b) Talk to someone
- c) Engage in a hobby
- d) Other: _______________
Results:
- Mostly A’s: Mental Strength Champion
- You have excellent mental strength and prioritize your mental health. Keep up the great work and continue practicing these healthy habits!
- Mostly B’s: Mentally Strong with Room to Grow
- You have good mental strength but could benefit from incorporating more self-care practices. Try adding a few new strategies to your routine.
- Mostly C’s: Building Your Mental Strength
- You’re on the right track but might need more consistent mental health practices. Focus on making self-care a regular part of your life.
- Mostly D’s: Needs Improvement
- It looks like you might struggle with maintaining mental strength. Consider seeking support from a mental health professional and trying new self-care techniques.
