It’s time for a reality check… Have you been selling yourself short in the gym… and with your physique goals? Be honest now. The only person you’d be fooling is yourself.
I’m not afraid to admit I’ve been slacking off lately… well, by my standards at least.
I recently awakened to this fact as I was training a client. She was training hard, but I could tell she was holding back.
At the end of a set I knew she had a few more solid reps in her. In her mind… she was done. She felt the burn… she was fatigued… and she thought this was good enough.
Well in my books “good enough” just doesn’t cut it. I expect greatness!
As she was about to rack the weight I encouraged her to dig deep and show me what she’s made of. “It’s all mind over matter now”.
The next four reps were not all that pleasant, but she executed them with exceptional form.
At the end of the set you could see the sense of satisfaction and pride on her face… well, once the wincing and grimacing from the burning sensation subsided 😉
There’s something magical about giving your very best effort. It’s rewarding and gratifying on so many levels.
It sure beats mindlessly going through the motions without any sense of satisfaction.
As I pushed my next client through her threshold it dawned on me… “Holy crap! I’ve been slacking off.”
It had been 4 weeks since I really challenged myself… really gave every ounce of my being to each and every set.
My focus had been intense… my mind-muscle connection was stronger than ever… I was experiencing a great pump… but what I wasn’t doing…
Stepping outside of my comfort zone.
I was performing the amount of reps that felt ‘comfortable’. I wasn’t challenging myself. I wasn’t giving my body a reason to improve.
Now, I’m not beating myself up over this, because it’s been a short-term experience. I’m really proud of the overall execution of my training sessions aside from the lack of intensity.
Frankly, the timing for this was just right… and the design of the program was probably what led to the reduced drive to test my limits.
The workout program was designed as a de-loading phase. I reduced the amount of volume per workout… and it triggered something in my mind… it was a sign that I should also ease up on the intensity.
After several months of really givin’er, my body needed a break… and this de-loading phase was perfect.
There was a problem though… I found myself getting accustomed to this lack of intensity. If I didn’t have a plan in place to increase the intensity and volume, I probably would have dug myself in a pretty good rut.
During that past week I’ve walked into the gym invigorated. Not only do I have my deep focus and intention, but I also have a wicked intensity level.
Immediately my workout partner responded, “You’re back!”
…Indeed I am!
So, now I need to know… has this story and experience resonated with you? Do you think you could dig a little deeper during your training sessions?
Going through the motions is unacceptable. It’s like going through school, just trying to get 51% because it’s good enough for a passing grade.
I’m in the business of bringing out the best in you… unleashing your true potential, while embracing the joy in the process.
I know for a fact, that when you are firing on all cylinders, the world is a better place.
So get out there and give my your BEST!
…and if you are unsure whether you are giving your very best or not… this video clip of the “Death Crawl” from the movie Facing the Giants is always a fantastic reality check for me…
“Negotiate with your body to find more strength.” …now that’s some powerful and deep stuff!
Dream BIG… dig deep… have FUN!
Sculpt a Masterpiece,
Scott Tousignant
About The Author
Scott Tousignant, BHK, is a Physique Coach with the knowledge and experience to help you sculpt your body into a chiseled work of art!
Scott believes the art of sculpting an aesthetically pleasing physique with ideal proportions and spectacular symmetry is one of life’s most rewarding and fulfilling experiences. It’s an opportunity for self-growth, self-discovery, and self-mastery that will impact every area of your life.
Scott’s body sculpting workout systems have been embraced by physique artists around the world. It’s time you became his next great success story! Choose the plan that best suits your needs by visiting the following links…
Speed Sculpt Plan: 33 Days To A Picture Perfect Physique
Lifestyle Plan: Metabolic Masterpiece Body Sculpting System