I’ve finally gotten my training spirit back up. It’s been lacking the last two months. Sometimes a little break is good for the body and mind, and I think I needed it. My plans used to be about lifting as heavy as possible – the kilos on the bar gave me such a rush and a sense of mastery. The plan for 2017 used to be 150kg in deadlift, which is a lot for my body weight (2,7 times as much as myself actually …). Last year I reached 165kg from below the knees (shorter range of motion, and easier to lift heavier), and I remember the adrenalin and feeling of being unbeatable. Awesome.
However, this year didn’t go that way. My body said stop and started hurting for no obvious physiological reason (psychologically on the other hand it made sense). I’ve needed to change things up, learn how to train a little differently. Not that heavy, not that often. It’s been really difficult – I didn’t know any other way, and to change those habits were hard. Is still hard. I’m still working on it. I’ve recently discovered yoga, and finally realised how good it feels. It has forced me to face my weaknesses and myself. Even though I love the feeling of lifting heavy things from the ground I also love the feeling of flowing, letting go, being flexible and simply being. In strength training it’s always a form of control, and I know I could do well supplementing with the opposite too.
I guess my goal is to be calmer on the inside. To learn to meditate and breathe better. Not having to do anything. All this pressure we put on ourselves… Sometimes I’m not sure if it comes from the outside or the inside, but I suppose it’s a mix.
Still, I’m not giving up on strenght training! No way, it gives me so much joy. Doing it right it can keep you pain free, build your bones stronger, give you a better metabolism (burning more calories, losing more fat and gaining muscle) and better sleep quality. For those reasons I’m planning on arranging a workshop in strength training this spring. That’s how I got into strength training myself, by attending a workshop like this. Learning technique and feeling more confident in what you do. So if you are in Oslo or a nearby area, let me know if you are interested in joining 🙂
