Processes

I’d read something somewhere…

It was instructions for how to do something, like bicep curls, or something similar. 

Maybe it was a video…

I’m not sure the format, but the point was to go slow.

Well, that doesn’t work for me. 

I get my workouts in where I can and to get the reps, I don’t always have the time to “go slow.”

And then today, I read an article about the reason for going slow.

The form…

The intention…

How the motion is not enough; it is a process where if everything isn’t just right, the motion is either pointless, or worse, causing harm.

Maybe it is just me, but I like to have a reason for what I am doing. 

I have a tendency to “over explain” myself, but I want whomever I’m addressing to know as much about the why as I can give them.

It’s great if you can “do” something, but if you don’t know “why” you’re doing it that particular way, you’re going to try to find an alternative path…a short-cut. 

Same destination? 

Right? 

Same goal? 

Is it? 

I know the quickest way from Point A to Point B is a straight line, but what if you need to make sure X, Y, and Z are also addressed before getting to Point B? 

Because maybe, Point X ensures stability.

Maybe Point Y verifies accuracy.

And Point Z, it just might make sure that everything is aligned.

This isn’t about lifting weights. 

This is about processes we must go through to rule out other things. You can’t run without first  learning to crawl and then walk. If you did, when you ran as far as you could, you’d have to stop, because you wouldn’t know how to keep going at a slower pace. 

It’s not a race to get to the end.

It’s not even about how much we can cram into life before we die. 

It’s about making the most of each of these moments we’re in, making sure we are learning, growing and improving ourselves and everyone else we meet. 

I slowed down my curls, just for today. 

I was able to get my usual reps in…

Not only that, but after I stopped, I still felt the work of the muscles. 

I think this might just be part of my new routine. 

Slow down…take my time…and enjoy this life. 

I only have one chance to make it count.