Ben Rude

I never wrestled in high school or college, but after years of wondering if I could, I finally figured out that adults can just do this. When the first "Mat Curious?" event popped up on Instagram, I jumped at it immediately, and after one session I was hooked. The first time I tried it, my brain felt jolted awake with an excitement I hadn’t felt in a long time. The mat washes away the day’s frustrations and anxieties and keeps me totally present.

I’m only a couple months in, but my background in weightlifting, running, and mobility has given me a solid base. I love Olympic freestyle, and so far my favorites are the basic double leg takedown and the fireman’s throw.

As a co-founder, clerk, and director of Hub Wrestling, I hope we become a consistent group with a healthy amount of challenge that pushes us out of our comfort zones, shows us what our bodies can do, and builds some great friendships along the way.

Away from the mat, I’m usually relaxing with my husband and our dog, playing video and board games, or hanging out with friends and family.