“Those who know me from my younger days, know that I was never a big fitness fan,” begins Peter-Jan Grech. “I didn’t own a pair of trainers until many years after starting BRND WGN, plus I was a heavy smoker and enjoyed long, rich dinners. And while I’m still no stranger to a chocolate biscuit, today I try to lead a more sustainable lifestyle because of the way it makes me feel. Consistently showing up for training, leading a healthier lifestyle, pushing my previous limits and burning off the adrenalin and stress accumulated throughout the day helps me be more focused and more resilient as a leader.”

The self-confessed nature enthusiast and active campaigner for sustainable living on a thriving planet now combines both passions into his fitness regime. “I am up every day at 5.15am for cardio – such as swimming, cycling or running – ideally outside in nature. I had originally started by swimming a few laps in the pool, before discovering the world of open water swimming – after which, I was hooked. Today, it’s just who I am. I have always wanted to live a life full of adventure and the type of sports I do ticks that box. I had a small health scare that reminded me that, if I still can do this, then I should. After a few small local events and the National Gozo-to-Malta swim, I joined the UltraMed Challenge to swim 15.5km across the Bonifacio Straits between Corsica and Sardinia, raising money for the Inspire Foundation. That is when I realised the real power of sports for positive change.”

Citing his training sessions as key to overcoming the challenges of the pandemic, Peter’s daily fitness routine brings mental as well as physical health benefits, he explains. “I discovered the positive influence I had on my colleagues, network and the company as I gave importance to sports to balance out my mental and physical health. By the time I get to work after a good training session, my motivation and positivity are at their best; I feel stronger and more confident. My mind is clear and agile, while my heart rate and breathing are calm and collected. The only negative is that I am always hungry!

“And it’s not about winning, it’s about showing up and having that discipline and commitment with myself to make sure everything has its place in my schedule, as well as eating well and getting plenty of rest.”

As to how to start your fitness journey, Peter concludes by recommending a slow and steady approach. “Start small, choose something that you enjoy doing, have fun and build up gently. Go easy on yourself. Find a group of like-minded individuals to join. Make it a way of life, turn it into a habit and not just a way to lose weight, otherwise your motivation won’t survive. And whatever you do – do not press that snooze button!”

This feature was first carried in the MaltaCEOs 2023 print publication, the sister brand to MaltaCEOs.mt, both produced by Content House Group

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