This was the perfect opportunity for me to use heavier dumbbells, kettlebell and to practice double unders. After attempting several double unders before the workout began, I pretty much just gave up and decided to do singles. I started out using 20lb dumbbells and a purple kettlebell. After 2 rounds through, my shoulders were on fire and I traded out my 20lb dumbbells for 15lbs. The workout seemed rather lazy on my part and I wasn't going particularly fast. I finished exhausted, but discouraged because I know I could've pushed harder.
After the workout, my coach and I were talking and he told me I definitely should've kept the 20lb dumbbells and set them down to rest when I needed. In the back of my mind, I knew I should've done this, but, honestly, it really didn't even cross my mind to set down the weights and rest during the workout.
In CrossFit, at least at my box, a lot of our workouts are timed or we count reps. With my new-found competitive nature, I am always pushing to get through as many reps and to go as fast as I can. I think I've realized its also important in training to step back and go up in weight or use a lighter band for pull-ups. Its okay to be a little slower than yesterday because without trying something new and challenging my muscles, I'm not going to go anywhere and I am defeating the purpose of CrossFit!
This morning I set out for a 7 mile tempo run. I was hoping to hit 3 miles in the middle holding 7:45s. My first mile felt fine, it was lovely running weather and the sun was peeking through a light cloud layer. After that mile, though, I started feeling tired and my legs felt lead-like. Boo. At that point I hate to admit, but I sort of gave up. I wasn't even through the warmup and I'd already decided not to push the pace for the middle miles!
As usual, I let my mind wander away while running and despite feeling tired, the miles went by fairly quickly despite my less than stellar mood.
Around mile 5 I was running by the marina, along the beach. The tide was out so I looked down to the shore and saw a beautiful, bright red starfish. I looked out over the water to the mountains and realized how insignificant my bad mood is.
Why waste this day not working as hard as possible? And why was I getting down on myself simply because I wasn't hitting a pace I'd set for myself. Who cares? I'm running because I love to run. There are so many who are not as lucky. I immediately got a spring back in my step and started hitting my goal pace with little effort.
In addition, I also started smiling at other runners and walkers I was passing and said "good morning!" to each one. By the time I got back to my apartment, I was my usual happy self, and was surprised to find my final miles surpassed my expectations!
Moral of my story: Stop getting discouraged and down on yourself because things are so much better when you just enjoy life!
After all, this chick is visiting me this weekend and I can't wait to get into Seattle shenanigans with her!
No comments:
Post a Comment