In the world of competitive sports, aging isn’t normally looked at as a positive thing, as people tend to equate age with ability.  Specifically in the world of MMA, a 36 year old man might be (perhaps is) considered to be somewhat "old".  In fact, some may say that’s too old to work your way up to compete on a professional level.  Let’s face it; it’s a well known fact that for the majority of us, our bodies take longer to condition and recover. It can also be more challenging to maintain strength and stamina.  Yet, with enough determination, desire, and willingness to learn from our mistakes, we can turn each moment into an opportunity to push to the next level.  Jake Valdez is a perfect example of this.  He doesn’t let anything stop him, certainly not something as trivial as age, from fighting with no fear.  No limitations.

Training out of the Defense Institute in Fountain, Colorado - Jake and his coach Rob Graff took a moment away from training to discuss the team dynamics.  To them, team equals family.  The team heavily supports Jake and his fiancée Jen.  And the loyalty to the gym is very obvious.

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 In the world of competitive sports, aging isn’t normally looked at as a positive thing, as people tend to equate age with ability.  Specifically in the world of MMA, a 36 year old man might be (perhaps is) considered to be somewhat "old".  In fact, some may say that’s too old to work your way up to compete on a professional level.  Let’s face it; it’s a well known fact that for the majority of us, our bodies take longer to condition and recover. It can also be more challenging to maintain strength and stamina.  Yet, with enough determination, desire, and willingness to learn from our mistakes, we can turn each moment into an opportunity to push to the next level.  Jake Valdez is a perfect example of this.  He doesn’t let anything stop him, certainly not something as trivial as age, from fighting with no fear.  No limitations.

Training out of the Defense Institute in Fountain, Colorado - Jake and his coach Rob Graff took a moment away from training to discuss the team dynamics.  To them, team equals family.  The team heavily supports Jake and his fiancée Jen.  And the loyalty to the gym is very obvious.

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Alexis Hernandez

Alicia Gumm

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Alexis Hernandez

Alicia Gumm

FliBye