MMA superstar Mr Choo Sung-hoon, aka Sexyama, delves into motorsports and shares why he joined Physical 100

Striking a balance in life may be as simple as carving out time regularly to indulge in an activity of your choice. Yahoo Shopping chats with personalities who share their passion for a sport or wellness activity they enjoy, which helps them take on the world with zeal. We hope this monthly series will inspire you to find an interest that will add that sparkle to your life.

MMA superstar Mr Choo Sung-hoon (or Yoshihiro Akiyama by his Japanese name) first gained international attention when he demonstrated immense strength, charisma, and resilience as a finalist on Netflix's sensational reality series, Physical 100. Better known as Sexyama (rightly so with his amazing physique), Mr Choo Sung-hoon enjoys a dual passion for mixed martial arts, as well as Motorsports, embodying the perfect convergence of athleticism, passion, and style. Taking on the role of Puma's SEA Motorsport Ambassador has solidified his status as a multi-faceted icon who is dedicated to both adrenaline-fuelled disciplines and an appetite for challenges that push his limits.

Yahoo Life Singapore got the opportunity to speak with him regarding his fitness routine, his preferred training gear, how he bounces back from the low points in his life, as well as the reason he decided to contest in Physical 100 against younger contestants. At the same time, we trawl the Internet on relevant gears and tools for you to set you on your way to a similar hobby or interest.

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Yahoo Life Singapore: What is one sport you love, and how did you get started?

Mr Choo Sung-hoon: Recently, I've been enjoying circuit training. It is very challenging, but the results are great.

What are its benefits and what do you love about it?

Completing a circuit training session gives me courage, hence I’ve grown fond of this activity now.

How often do you indulge in it and with whom?

I mostly train alone. In general, I train every day. As for circuit training, I indulge in it every 2-3 days at a time.

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You mentioned that one of the reasons you joined Physical 100 was to prove that middle-aged people are no less fit and can take on those who are much younger than them. Could you share what you hoped to achieve when joining Physical 100? Did you feel discriminated against?

I have never experienced discrimination. I wanted to show the younger generation that with hard work, people who are my age can also compete and surpass them.

Are there any advantages to being an older athlete?

With years of experience, I wasn't nervous at all. I could focus with a broader perspective.

Was there a time in your life when you were less fit?

I've been exercising since I was 4, so I've always been healthy. The only time I did take a break from sports was when I had to do surgery due to an injury.

Could you share with us a low point in your life when you felt like giving up? How did you bounce back?

In high school, I broke my left arm bone and underwent surgery three times. That took me about three years to recover and return. I was unable to use my left arm, so I had to focus on training other parts of my body.

What gear/tools/attire do you need or wear when engaging in the sport?

A comfortable T-shirt, and shorts, good running shoes, quality gloves, and straps are necessary for weight training.

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Could you share with us any insights you have gained thanks to the said sports activity?

Confidence in one's actions arises, be it in sports, work, or various activities. It nurtures a spirit that challenges until the end and never gives up.

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