my training philosophy
Every once in a while, I go through a rut with my training.
Even though I love working out. Even though I’m a major meathead, and lifting heavy things brings me a disproportionate amount of joy.
Sometimes, the motivation lags and the gym just doesn’t feel quite as satisfying or enjoyable as usual.
It’s a frustrating feeling, but in those seasons, I have to remind myself that it’s normal. I acknowledge that I’m feeling this way, and I try to examine life lately and find any potential causes.
Sometimes I find them. Sometimes I don’t. Either way it’s ok.
And then I go back to my training philosophy. The big WHY behind me going to the gym.
Why do I lift weights? Why have I stubbornly, voluntarily, eagerly been walking my ass into a warehouse full of metal plates and machines, just about every day for over a decade now?
Here’s the why:
So I can do whatever I want in daily life. So I have the fitness to go do something whenever I want—hike, run, play sports, carry heavy shit, help friends and family move things, etc.
So I can look and feel strong in my body. The self-esteem boost is enormous
I’m a competitive person, and I love beating past versions of myself. I love striving to be better than I was last year, or a few years ago.
Because I genuinely enjoy it! Even when I’m in a down season, I can find something in the gym that I enjoy, and that helps me get back on track.
If you’re someone who’s struggling in the gym right now, I’d encourage you to create a training philosophy of your own. Anchor to those reasons that you uncover, and leverage them on the bad days to get yourself where you want to be and stay consistent.
