Hardwell Reveals Mental Fitness as Key to Sustained DJ Dominance
AMSTERDAM – World-renowned DJ and producer Hardwell is sharing insights into a dramatic shift in his approach to touring and performance, prioritizing mental and physical well-being as foundational to his continued success. Once known for a relentless touring schedule, the Dutch DJ now emphasizes recovery, sleep, and mindful disconnection as crucial components of maintaining peak performance and creative output.
For years, Hardwell – whose real name is Robbert van de Corput – pushed through exhaustion, performing as many as 150 shows annually. However, experience taught him that wellness isn’t a luxury, but “part of the gig,” he explained. This realization has led to a comprehensive lifestyle overhaul focused on proactive self-care.
“Health and fitness play a big role in my life now,” Hardwell stated. He incorporates workouts in local gyms or simple stretching routines in hotel rooms to improve circulation. He’s also embraced practices like breathwork, saunas, and cold plunges, describing them as a way to “reboot the entire body, especially after late shows.” This focus on recovery mirrors the approach of elite athletes who recognize its importance alongside training.
A cornerstone of this new strategy is prioritizing sleep. hardwell now views adequate rest as essential for both creativity and mental sharpness. “In my career, sleep is everything,” he said. He now schedules “buffer days” between performances to rest or work on music without the pressure of a tight schedule, and frequently skips afterparties to protect his sleep. “Without rest, the music suffers,” he acknowledged, demonstrating a newfound ability to “self-regulate” and decline external pressures.
Beyond physical recovery,Hardwell emphasizes the importance of staying grounded. He credits maintaining strong connections with family and friends as vital for staying centered,reminding himself of his “intrinsic motivation” – the music and his fans – amidst the “noise” of fame.
This commitment to personal well-being led to a pivotal decision in 2018: a complete break from touring. “Taking that break was the best decision I ever made,” Hardwell reflected. “It taught me that stepping away isn’t quitting, it’s healing. It made me a better artist, and I came back stronger because I finally put myself first.”
Hardwell’s experience underscores a growing understanding within high-performance fields that mental fitness and well-being aren’t obstacles to ambition, but rather its most powerful enablers.by treating self-care as integral to his profession, Hardwell is not only sustaining his own career but offering a blueprint for longevity and excellence in a demanding industry.
