It was just this morning. I was in my usual morning daze, coffee in hand. Focused on making my way to the break room, I overheard a conversation that immediately provoked me from my coma-like state. “I can barely walk because my legs hurt so bad,” they said.  It was not that I wanted to eavesdrop on the conversation, but it was my client participating in a group class. In that moment, I certainly hoped I was not the cause of the alleged leg pain as it had been at least three days since we last trained.  Naturally, I tuned into the remainder of the conversation.  Long story short, the culprit was a ridiculously high volume of back squats the day before. OUCH!  The inadvertent eavesdrop session left only one question: why?

 

Throughout an individuals’ life, and regardless of professional athlete, exerciser, or straight-up gym enthusiast, everyone has a goal.  A reason they do what they do.  Maybe it’s dominating Boise’s 13-mile uphill race, Robie Creek, a little faster this year.  Perhaps that next powerlifting or weightlifting competition has your name on it.  Or maybe, you just want to feel and move better.

 

Nevertheless, a goal has been established and you have given yourself a reason, a why.  One thing I want to make clear: goals are not without challenge.  Goals are not without pain.  Having said this, how can you not only reach your goals but continue past them without injury?  Have a plan and STAY IN YOUR LANE.  

 

Personally, I love competition.  Training for something specific not only gives me a goal but drives me to better myself.  It challenges me to make specific sacrifices.  One of my favorite quotes comes to mind. Stay the Course!  Specifically, train like your favorite athlete would.  

 

Something I believe most individuals miss is that even pro athletes must take rest days.  Even Elite Level Crossfitters must follow a periodized (rest time included) training regime.  How else did they get that strong? That fast?  That conditioned to stop failure in its tracks?  

 

Train hard so that you can rest hard.  And before completely destroying yourself, have a reason.  Give yourself a why!    

 

-Dylan Clagg

Jack City Fitness Fitness Coach