During your training, what do you think about? Many times when we are exercising we get mentally lazy. I know I’ve done this, and I ALWAYS regret it later in the forms of aches and pains where there shouldn’t be. Training takes energy, training takes focus, training is a collaboration of mental and physical work.
I had the opportunity to take one of the very first TRX Functional Training Courses (FTC). As a group we spent over 8 hours focusing on quality of movement. My clients were asking what are some “crazy new moves” you learned? I realized I didn’t learn many new moves and that was a GOOD thing.
No I’m not saying I am a know it all. =) I know there are plenty of “new moves” I can learn, but why? Together I would like my clients to master the moves we are already working on. Increase their quality of movement, increase their strength and mobility. THAT is what the new FTC course focused on.
What I did learn in the FTC Course –> Chase your plank!
A proper plank is full body stability (stable, unmoving). Many of the muscles in your body work together to create a strong position that will strengthen you from head to toe. This is NOT a 6 pack move. Planks work your inner core, your obliques, your shoulders, your quads, your calfs, your back, and so much more!
What if we translated our plank into every move that we do? Can we incorporate the plank idea into our squats?
ABSO-FREAKIN-LUTELY! The fantastic Elizabeth Smith Andrews who taught the course drilled us into thinking about our constant plank. CHASE YOUR PLANK! Set, and re-set your plank in each move. Find the stability where it needs to be and the mobility (the moving pieces of the exercise) in the correct places.
That is what should be happening when you are training. Your coach should be giving you thoughts, cues, and reminders about each move. You should feel all of your muscles cooperating in each full body move. Exercise is not something you can do without using your brain as a muscle as well.
This will keep you strong, safe, and moving well for your entire life. Eventually this strength and attention to detail will become natural. Your plank in every move will be second nature. Until then it is going to take effort to think about and incorporate into your training.
If you want to learn more about how to train better, you need to hire a coach or a trainer who is ready to help you reach those goals. Keep asking questions, communicate your wants and needs, and do your research to find the right trainer for you.
Also keep your eyes open for my online coaching coming this summer! Jump on my (inner circle) newsletter list for weekly motivation and information to make your training and your life better (here)
Any questions? Let me know! Comment or head over to Facebook and start a conversation.