Peak Performers

What you know and whom you know might be critical to success, but savvy businesspeople recognize that equally important are how you look, how you feel and whether your brain is operating at its maximum potential. Often the key-and the competitive edge-come with physical fitness and the mental and emotional benefits of athletic activities.

Because January always offers a psychological clean slate, Gulfshore Business talked with four Southwest Florida businesspeople who've got their game on. Here are their stories and maybe a bit of inspiration to get the rest of us on track.

Keith Jacoby

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE: Senior vice president, investments, for the Moran Asset Management Group of Wachovia Securities. Jacoby, 35, specializes in wealth management for high net worth families.

THE SPORT: Cycling

"Though I was athletic in school, when I returned to Naples in 1995 from Flagler College I jumped right into my career. After nearly three years of sitting behind a desk under fluorescent lights, I realized I was getting soft. So I started swimming, cycling and running. By the time I had completed a few triathlons, I had learned two things: I don't like swimming and I don't like running. But I'd fallen in love with cycling."

THE PAYOFF: "Cycling calms the mind, takes the edge off, turns nervous energy into relaxed energy. I love both my solitary rides and the camaraderie of group rides. After a group ride there can be anywhere from 10 to 20 people gathered at the Coffee Beanery. That post-ride cup of coffee is my happy hour. The joy of the ride and the companionship spill into every aspect of my day.

"Cycling is a great sport for a family man. I'm up before daybreak, when my wife and two young children are still sleeping; I'm on my bike by 6:30 and back home by 8:30 without disruption to our family schedule. When I'm focused and getting in all my rides, 200 miles a week is about average. A big week is 300 miles."