Former UFC champion Miesha Tate recently sat down with self appointed ‘brain fitness expert’ Patrick Porter PhD to discuss the benefits of brain training for martial artists and athletes. Tate, who has made a successful comeback to professional competition after a five-year hiatus, credits innovative wellness techniques like brain fitness for helping her perform at an elite level.
“I learned about biohacking and wellness, and it’s been a game-changer,” Tate explained in a video. “Most athletes only do therapy if they get injured. Now we have something called prehab, where we’re doing it before we need it. You’re getting yourself ready physically, mentally, and emotionally.”
Tate outlined her pre-competition routine, which includes hyperbaric oxygen therapy, low-level light therapy, and brain training using the BrainTap device. She noted that these modalities help with recovery, mitochondrial health, and mental preparation.
The star was particularly enthusiastic about BrainTap, describing it as “life-changing.” She recounted having an epiphany about her life’s purpose while using the device, which she attributes to reaching an optimal brainwave state.
For those especially skeptical we ran a check on Porter – he’s indeed not a medical doctor despite going by Dr. Parker Porter – instead he boasts of a doctorate in philosophy and a whole lot of NLP courses. None of which is even remotely relevant for brain health.
“I recommend it to everybody,” Tate said. “My mom has the headset, and my fiancé uses it multiple times a day to decompress. It’s been transformative.”
Porter emphasized the importance of brain fitness alongside physical training for athletes. “For good brain fitness, you need a good diet, movement, proper breathing, and some kind of brain training,” he explained.
Tate also discussed her motivations for returning to competition and her approach to success. “I’ve learned there’s a benefit to doing things smarter, not harder,” she said. “Now, learning about longevity and these resets, it’s like I have so much more to offer.”
Looking to the future, Tate hopes to compete for a title again soon. She also expressed interest in hosting a biohacking conference and becoming a voice for wellness in sports, particularly as a professional athlete and mother.
“I want to continue to share that,” Tate said, emphasizing her desire to inspire and educate others about the benefits of brain fitness and overall wellness for peak performance.
