Yes, we practice in the rain. Yes, we practice in the cold. Yes, we practice in the snow. If we feel a safe training environment can be ensured, we practice. Why? Because tough training environments make tough people; and sports – even moreimportantly life – require tough people.
Most of us remember the iconic scene from Rocky IV when Rocky sets up a training camp in the harsh Russian environment while his competitor Drago uses high-tech training equipment to get the most optimal training conditions possible (or so he thought). The painful Russian conditions sculpt Rocky’s body and mind into a superior athlete that could not be created in the cushy environment chosen by Drago.
When conditions are tough, embrace them. Take advantage of this rare opportunity to become stronger, both mentally and physically. Find ways to make it a little harder on yourself – to challenge yourself more. Continually seek out tough conditions and have confidence that your competition won’t do the same. Find success in these conditions and you will thrive in optimal conditions.
This is counter-culture, especially in how we raise our young people these days. I feel it is important though and something that we try to instill in our athletes at Endorphin Fitness. We grow by being challenged in many ways, and our surroundings are one powerful way. Seek the challenge.
