War veterans repeatedly prove that returning to an active life is possible when there is support nearby, the right environment, and an activity that helps with recovery. One such example is Yegor Lebid, a coach of the All-Ukrainian Association of Martial Arts “Combat Self-Defense ISO”.

For Yegor, training has become not just a sports activity, but an important component of psychological recovery. He emphasizes that a veteran’s very first step into the gym is already a major achievement:

“If a veteran comes to the gym, that is already a very big step. A person gets used to stress, to adrenaline. By coming here, they actually get that same adrenaline that needs to be released. Because if you keep it inside, it causes certain psychological problems, first and foremost,” Yegor says.

He emphasizes that equality and mutual respect are essential in a sports environment. This is what allows veterans and civilians to find common ground, overcome barriers, and understand one another.

“We work on the principle that we are all equal, but everyone has their own characteristics. It doesn’t matter whether they are psychological or physical — we are all equal. That’s why we learn, both civilians and military personnel, to accept each other as we are. And sport is the tool for that,” the athlete adds.

Participation in “Combat Self-Defense ISO” training for Yegor Lebid is a path not only to physical fitness, but also to inner balance. His example inspires other veterans to take the first step, return to an active life, and find support within the sports community.

The Martial Arts Association “Combat Self-Defense ISO” continues to create conditions where everyone — regardless of past, status, or experience — can feel like part of a team and find their own path to recovery through sport.