From Gym to Boardroom: Applying Exercise Science to Entrepreneurship

Very often we see people draw parallels between sports and business. Comparing ratings with major leagues, business strategies with sports game plans, marathons with long term projects and sprints with bright newcomer appearances.

One can certainly see some similarities in those, but one should also keep in mind one majot difference. Whereas in sports everything is guided by the rules and all participants know what they should expect, or at least what they will definitely not experiene, in business — nothing is excluded and one should expect anything. That difference makes it a totally different game.

I have been running for quite a while already and have completed 2 marathons and 12 half marathons so far, each of them has required thorough planning, preparation, execution and further debriefing.

However there was no chance that something will change in the course of that process. The distance could not become 62km instead of 42,2 or 5k instead of 21,1 when I am pacing my resources for 21,1. Participants could not not switch in the middle of the race and go skiing instead, the rules of the race could not be changed after I have run my first half of 42,2km and be different for the second part. I also should not expect the person running next to me to turn around and knock me out with a nice jab) (though sometimes I do feel that this should be allowed).

Well, if you have been in business for at least the last 5 years or even 20, like myself, you know that this type of things happens in business all the time))

In the realm of business, success often hinges on more than just clever strategies and market insights; it’s also about understanding the principles that drive growth and adaptation. Interestingly, some of these principles mirror those found in exercise science. By recognizing the parallels between fitness and business, entrepreneurs and executives can optimize their activities for sustained success. Let’s delve into three key exercise principles and explore how they influence business projects and people, along with strategies for adjustment:

1. Progressive Overload:

Progressive overload is a fundamental principle in exercise science, stating that to make continuous gains in strength, endurance, or muscle size, the intensity, duration, or frequency of exercise must gradually increase over time. This principle recognizes that the body adapts to stressors placed upon it by becoming stronger and more resilient. By progressively challenging the body beyond its current capabilities, individuals can stimulate growth and improvement.

2. Adaptability:

Adaptability refers to the ability to adjust and thrive in changing environments or circumstances. In exercise, adaptability is crucial for optimizing performance and preventing plateaus. It involves varying workouts, incorporating new exercises, and modifying routines to stimulate different muscle groups and energy systems. This prevents the body from becoming accustomed to a particular stimulus, thereby maximizing gains and minimizing the risk of injury.

3. Homeostasis vs. Evolution:

Homeostasis is the body’s innate tendency to maintain stability and equilibrium through self-regulation mechanisms. It ensures that essential physiological processes remain within optimal ranges, despite external fluctuations. Conversely, evolution represents the gradual development and adaptation of organisms over time in response to changing environmental pressures. While homeostasis maintains stability in the short term, evolution enables organisms to thrive and survive in dynamic and unpredictable environments by adapting to new challenges and opportunities.

Understanding these concepts provides a solid foundation for applying them to business practices and strategies. Now, let’s explore how these principles translate into the realm of business and management.

1. Progressive Overload:

Just as muscles grow stronger through progressively increasing resistance, businesses thrive by continually challenging themselves. Progressive overload in business means setting increasingly ambitious goals, pushing boundaries, and striving for continuous improvement. Whether it’s expanding into new markets, launching innovative products, or enhancing operational efficiency, the principle of progressive overload drives growth and innovation. The moment you stop setting your targets higher the "body" of your business will adjust and will stop growing and progressing and from that stage to decline is just one small step…

Adjustment Strategy: Entrepreneurs and executives should regularly assess their business goals and performance metrics to ensure they’re challenging themselves constantly and appropriately. Setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals allows for clear targets and tracking progress. Additionally, fostering a culture of learning and development encourages employees to embrace challenges and seek growth opportunities.

2. Adaptability:

In both exercise and business, adaptability is paramount. Just as the body adapts to different training stimuli, successful businesses must adapt to changing market conditions, consumer preferences, and technological advancements. Those who can pivot quickly and effectively in response to external forces are better positioned to thrive in dynamic environments.

Adjustment Strategy: Entrepreneurs and executives should cultivate a mindset of flexibility and resilience within their organisations. This involves staying informed about industry trends, monitoring competitor activities, and actively seeking feedback from customers and stakeholders. Embracing innovation and experimentation allows businesses to stay ahead of the curve and seize emerging opportunities.

3. Homeostasis vs. Evolution:

Homeostasis, the body’s tendency to maintain stability through self-regulation, contrasts with the concept of evolution, which entails progressive change and adaptation over time. Similarly, businesses must strike a balance between maintaining stability (homeostasis) and embracing evolution to remain competitive and relevant in a rapidly evolving landscape.

This is an important principle to remember in the change efforts. One has to keep in mind that the "body" of your business will resist any change due to homeostasis and in order to see some eveolution one has to apply the first 2 principles.

Adjustment Strategy: Entrepreneurs and executives should recognize the need for both continuity and innovation within their organizations. While it’s essential to preserve core values and strengths, it’s equally important to foster a culture of innovation and embrace change. Implementing systems for feedback, experimentation, and continuous improvement enables businesses to evolve while staying true to their mission and vision.

By embracing progressive overload, adaptability, and the balance between homeostasis and evolution, entrepreneurs and executives can navigate challenges, drive innovation, and position their businesses for long-term success. Just as a well-rounded fitness regimen yields physical resilience and strength, a holistic approach to business management empowers individuals and organizations to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

Note those principles, apply them in your daily business and fitness life and you will see how you will progress in both of those fields.

I’m sure that you can do it. If you feel that you might need extra support here — as growth and transformation strategist I help business people to explore their hidden potential, alternatives and achieve maximum value in their business and life

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