Mentally Challenging = Physically Rewarding
Hey Luke,
I just wanted to thank you again for all the help and support this morning. I’m making a bad habit out of finishing far behind the pack, but trying very hard to get past the frustration that comes along with it. It’s been really difficult for me to realize and admit I have serious problems with my flexibility, strength, and especially cardio. I’m fully aware that if we were a competitive sports team, I’d be one of the last on the bench right now.
In my mind this is a good thing, because it’s the motivation I need to find the spark I lost many years ago, when I’d be damned if I was going to let anyone beat me at anything. It’s something I’ve lost, and in some ways, I’m probably a little more (mentally) healthy because of it, but physically it’s taken a toll. I have a long way to go, but I hope before too long to be one of the stronger students in class, and feel like I’m contributing rather than struggling.
I thought that due to injury, lifestyle, and career I’d no longer have a chance to grow and improve physically, but you’ve proven me wrong in my short time here. More than anything, when I have a flash of my old self or see the future potential, it’s the best motivation, and gets me through days like today. If I can find a way to restore my “edge” while tempering it with a little age and wisdom, I’ll be in a fantastic place.
Sorry for the rambling note, but it’s funny how sometimes you don’t miss something until it’s gone, that’s how I feel about my athleticism. I wanted to let you and the entire staff know that while I may not be the most talkative and gregarious student (yet), I’m certainly one of the most grateful for the opportunity CrossFit represents, and the great people who make it possible.
February 18th, 2010 at 11:57 am
Keith… thank you for saying what so many of us feel. I look forward to competing with you in class!
February 18th, 2010 at 1:17 pm
Keith, you said that you felt that injury, lifestyle and career would keep you from growing as an athlete. For me, it was the notion of AGE.. growing older would mean weaker, slower and saggier! Wow. All we have to do is show up for the WODs, don’t quit before we walk out the door, and we are stronger, faster, leaner and certainly less saggy. Yippee Crossfit!
February 18th, 2010 at 2:36 pm
Kieth- those feelings are right on the numbers for a lot of us. “Tenacity” is the word I like to use for Crossfit
February 18th, 2010 at 5:19 pm
Hey Keith, it was not long ago when I first joined CFS, less than 1 year ago. My Baseline (beginner level) was 10:26. I started to puke after the 3rd burpee I ever did. It was hell, and believe me, I did not want to be at CFS! But I made it through each class (typically at the end of the pack too) because of the encouragement of my fellow Crossfitters. I am proud to work-out along your side because it’s the “never give up” attitude that makes a true athlete, not how much weight they can lift or how fast they can run. Trust me, soon you will be doing things you never thought possible and cheering on your fellow classmates. Until the next WOD!
February 22nd, 2010 at 1:02 pm
Yo Keith! We’ve all been there man.
It’s been a blast to have a workout buddy I’m close to right in my hood. You’ve made big strides already and it’s exciting to watch.
Keep up the good fight!
Foli