Trying new things and learning from others.

Today was awesome. Why? Because I had a very busy and efficient day. Due to some horrendous road closures, and being stranded in West Van,(a jewelry store was robbed) I had over 3 hours to kill and decided to hit the gym for the first strength workout of my new program.


(Me at a strength training fundraiser, none of the moves looked like this)

I hired a very experienced trainer/movement specialist, who has an extensive resume with athletes, to help me identify my own strengths and weaknesses. Yes, even though I am a trainer myself, it is always a good idea to work with others. A) you get great ideas and (b) there is always more to learn. I am a do-er and I learn better by executing something myself, rather than reading it on paper or by having someone explain something to me.

After getting trained, I coached a run client and put her through a great hill workout. She, unlike myself, needs someone to push her because she will not do it herself. Now, I say that about myself in regards to running only. When it comes to 'all the other stuff' such as strength training and stretching, I need someone to push me or tell me what to do. If it were left up to me, I would just go run all the time!

Strength training and athletes is very interesting. You see a lot of trainers out there simply putting people through 'workouts' without any purpose. Every exercise I am doing has a purpose. Each deadlift, side lunge, or front squat with the Olympic bar, isn't performed with the sole purpose to make my butt and hamstrings look good. It's to give me more strength for running and to balance out my weaker muscles. Think about that the next time you are at the gym. Ask yourself, What is this exercise doing for me?

I really want to try something new this year. I spent a total of 3 months of last year injured and I don't want that to happen again. Obviously, I have some muscle imbalances and extreme muscle tightness that needs to be addressed. I would like to build a really great strength base. I want more speed and power. The strength in the gym will help me with that. I have also hired a run coach. I have never run 100 miles and although I could make my own program, it would be nice to have a little guidance as I train for something so lofty. If I know I have to do a speed workout or a tempo workout, I will do it. If left up to my own devices, I may just run lots and run easy because let's be honest, that intensity is quite enjoyable. But we all know we need to push ourselves outside our comfort zones to get better.

I will admit. I have been successful in my short running career without doing a whole lot of functional training (speed). I have found in the past that this type of training has taken out some of the fun. But, this is a new year, an older wiser me, and I am ready to take on the world!!! Nothing feels better to me than doing a hard workout and feeling your heart beat out of your chest. To me, that signifies that we are truly ALIVE! I always tell my clients that after they complete a tough workout. Although, I doubt if it really makes them feel any better.

I have always been told in school, athletics, and my professional life that I have a lot of POTENTIAL. This year I am focused on working towards that in every aspect of my life.