Difficult, Difficult

In life, much like in exercise, we must challenge ourselves in order to grow.  Continuing to do reps with one pound dumbbells for years on end will never allow your biceps to grow.  Doing what comes easy is a sure-fire way to ensure mediocrity in every aspect of life.   In a recent article written by Geoff Thompson, the concept of “difficult, difficult” is addressed. 

Thompson writes, “Difficult easy is when you are on familiar terrain, no matter how hard the going.”  Further, Thompson explains “Difficult difficult doesn’t need to employ pretence because it is drowning and swimming for its life.”  Take a moment and apply these ideas to your last workout.  Think about the weight you used to perform your exercises, think about the selection and order of your exercise bout. 

After thinking about these things, how would you classify your workout?  Was it “difficult, difficult”?  Or did you stick to a familiar regimen and fall into the trap of “difficult, easy”?  I personally challenge you to find your “difficult, difficult” the next time you visit the wellness center.  For some this may be as simple as grabbing the next largest set of dumbbells off the rack and for others this may mean trying a new group exercise class.  Whatever “difficult, difficult” you face, find it, embrace it and conquer it!

Pushing you to achieve more,

Andrea Warren, CSCS, NSCA-CPT, ACSM-CET

Fitness Manager

Alegent Health Lakeside Wellness Center

The entire article written by Geoff Thompson can be found on Alywn Cosgrove’s blog at http://alwyncosgrove.com/2010/10/difficult-difficult-difficult-easy/