062513 plus play time

AM session

incline bench 3x3, last set rep-out

weighted chest to bar pullups 5x5
-5 sets with weight

push press
-triples working up to heavy set with good form. can rep out last set if feeling good


PM session

metcon: 5 RFT

5 power cleans @ 185#
10 close grip bench @ 145#
15 calorie row
2 min rest



Strength Bit: PLAY!

I work at crossfit gym, and a lot of the people I spend time with invest a lot of energy into working out. Recently I've been wondering if this investment is forced or if they enjoy the process. I guess I assume that people enjoy this self inflicted form of torture because I certainly do, but what if their fitness was forced. what if this aspect of their life was just one more check mark on their busy schedule that needs to be marked off?

I reflect on my schedule and realize while that I enjoy the process, my workouts are fairly obsessive and my day can be ruined if I miss a workout or have a lack luster session. additionally, i've realized that I have all this awesome capacity, but i never apply it. I can lift weight, move well, and keep going but i rarely apply my fitness to something more fun and entertaining.

In an attempt to embrace balance, I've been allocating days where i focus on recovery and fun activities. for the last couple weeks, I've been having a day where i just go swim for fun. If i feel like doing a couple sprints or practice holding my breath or just walking around and laying out afterwards I go for it. I avoid timing myself and try to keep the pressure off and just enjoy the time in the sun and water. On the weekends i've also been trying to do something recreational rather than doing a structured workout. whether this means i go for hike or go for another swim, I don't know but I just try to get out and move about.

This idea of unstructured, free time activities was an inspiration after reading and watching some material from Idol portal and some crossfitters, namely andrea ager. these individuals encourage "play time" and i'm beginning to see this as a very important aspect of my fitness and well being. And heck, its fun! So this was a bit of a rant, but really i'm just try to have more fun and apply my fitness. I'm also trying to encourage those around me to do the same and see what can come of this.