Sep 09
25
Staying happy at the back of the pack
One of my goals while going to CrossFit Ogden has been to do a muscle up.
(A muscle up is basically a pull-up on some rings which then turns into a dip on the rings, ideally in a single smooth movement)
I’ve just gotten to the point that I can do one if I jump from the ground to get started.
Another guy there saw me do it and thinking that it looked fun decided to try. After a few shaky tries I was astonished to see him do one almost effortlessly! After doing a few more he smiled and went home for the day.
My trainer seeing my shocked and dismayed look tried to comfort me “It’s ok he’s a police officer and does judo too.”
All I could do is shake my head and say “I hate working out with cops.”
The boys (and girl) in blue
Easily half the people at my gym are either a police officer or sheriff’s deputy. All of them are great to work out with. They are a fun group, supportive, easy going, and are in great shape.
Let me emphasize their great shape.
Forget the stereotypical donut munching overweight cop, even the one female officer who is about to have her first grand kid can kick my but in nearly every workout we do! Half of them have a serious beer gut going on, but they still manage to squat more and turn in faster mile times!
Why do I suck?
CrossFit has a competitive streak a mile wide, it’s one of the reasons I like it. Even if you can’t compete with those around you, CrossFit is styled so you can compete with yourself. In the few months I’ve been there, I’ve seen some large gains in strength, and I’m happy for it.
But is it so wrong to want to beat a few of my fellow gym members once in a while?
Without a doubt there will always be someone better than you at something. In fact, having someone better than you nearby can help you push yourself in an attempt to catch up to them. But what do you do when you’re dead last?
Of course quitting isn’t the answer, my only real option is to press on. But I need to get in a more constructive state of mind. Let’s share ideas on keeping a positive mental attitude when your at the back of the pack. Comment below and let’s discuss.
