Dooley Noted: 3/23/2014
Yesterday, I saw a T-shirt that was meant to motivate people to go to a gym.
“Can’t move. Can’t breathe. Can’t get enough.”
Somewhere, fitness devolved into this mentality. No pain, no gain. If you were out of breath, you were doing good work. If you can’t move the next day, then you should be commended for your efforts.
What bull.
In my twenties, I remember waking up so sore I couldn’t move after bootcamp workouts and runs. I remember not being able to take full breaths, and I remember battling repetitive injuries.
I thought these symptoms were all par for the course of fitness.
Then, I evolved.
I got tired of being sore and uncomfortable. I finally asked myself the important question:
“If fitness means being hurt and not being able to breathe, then why would I want to be fit?”
Then, I became StrongFirst.
I met amazing fitness professionals that married mobility, stability and strength. They promoted regression when injured, and they required a certified instructor to meet strict safety standards.
When the student is ready, the teacher appears.
So, if you’re ready to listen – then the following truths are waiting:
Your workout doesn’t have to break you to be effective.
If it messes with your airway, fix your airway and reassess why you are doing what you’re doing.
You will accomplish far more feats on a stable platform then loading a dysfunctional one.
If you regress for a short time and fix your movement flaws, then you will one day be better than you’ve ever been.
I’m living proof.
Get assessed. Get corrected. Consider having workout standards that make it a workout, not a breakdown.
As always, it’s your call.
– Dr. Kathy Dooley