Training vs Exercise and Why it's Not Healthy

I feel like this is something that a lot of people don't hear, don't know or understand. But before we get into it, let me quickly remind you that I am talking about training here NOT exercise. If you aren't sure of the difference between the two, this is how I differentiate between the two: 1. Exercise is casual activity with no real focus or purpose 2. Training has a specific focus that's programmed to create an outcome like get stronger With that said, let me say this: Training is not meant to be healthy. There are many risks associated with training and that's part of what makes it so much fun - at least for me anyways :) Training with a specific goal to get stronger, faster, bigger, leaner or whatever your goal, is an endeavor that comes with real risks of getting hurt. Training is not really about health in the common sense of the word, it's more about elite human performance. I wanted to share this with you because I've seen so many people working hard progressing on a goal they have, only to quit and get frustrated because they get "hurt". Getting hurt is or can be part of the process. Now to be clear, I'm NOT talking about getting injured. Getting injured is usually the result of doing a number of things incorrectly and that should hardly ever happen if you are doing things properly with the right guidance. Getting hurt on the other hand is part of pushing your body to its limits so embrace it! If you want to be elite and take your body to superhuman levels you are going to have to accept the potential challenges that come along with it. Here are a few suggestions to make sure you are doing everything in your power to reduce your risk of getting hurt while training: 1. Spend time on technique – Make sure you learn how to properly and safely learn how to do complicated lifts and movements before going for broke! 2. Don't skip your warm up – Spend a good amount of time warming up your body before getting into anything intense and if you're rushed for time that day don't try to go for any personal bests! 3. Listen to your body – If your body is telling you that it's feeling at its limits be very cautious how you push yourself from there. 4. Recover properly – Be sure that you are getting proper rest, eating enough and hydrating properly so that your body is in the best possible condition to be pushed. 5. Work on your weaknesses – It's very important to identify your weaknesses and spend some time working on them with an expert because you will most likely get hurt at your weakest point. The chain always breaks at its weakest link. So now that you're clear on the risks that come with hard training, accept the responsibilities and go for it! Remember we are here to help you so tell us what your goals are, what you’re struggling with, and how we can help you.