You’re out on the open sea, surfboard in hand, ready to catch some waves. The sun is shining, the breeze is just right, and the waves are beckoning you. But, sorry to say, you’re human, and life happens. Instead of gracefully riding the waves, you find yourself battling against them, struggling to make headway. Sound familiar? Well, in the ocean of life, and especially in the realm of fitness, sometimes we find ourselves in the same predicament. So, let’s talk about whether you’re riding the wave or fighting it.
The Wave Analogy:
Life, fitness, enthusiasm – they’re all like waves. Sometimes, when challenges come crashing down, our first instinct is to fight against them with all our might. We expend copious amounts of energy trying to reverse the current, to steer our course towards a more desirable outcome. But is this always the best approach? Let’s dive deeper.
Fighting the Wave:
Imagine a surfer determined to tackle every wave head-on, regardless of its size or strength. They push through the swells, exhausting themselves in the process, only to end up getting thrashed by the waves they were trying to conquer. Sound familiar? That’s what it’s like when we fight against the currents of life. We force ourselves into grueling routines, battling against the challenges without considering alternative approaches.
Riding the Wave:
Now, picture a seasoned surfer. They don’t waste their energy fighting every wave that comes their way. Instead, they wait for the right moment, the perfect wave, before they make their move. They’re patient, they’re adaptable, and when the time is right, they seize the opportunity with gusto. That’s what it means to ride the wave – to go with the flow, to adapt to the circumstances, and to make the most of every situation.
Fitness Example:
Let’s apply this analogy to fitness. You’ve got a new job, a hectic schedule, or maybe a new addition to the family throwing a wrench into your routine. Your first instinct might be to set that alarm for 6 AM, drag yourself out of bed, and force yourself through a grueling workout.
But what if there’s another way? What if, instead of fighting against the tide, you choose to ride the wave? You take a deep breath, and understand that these are challenging times, and that it’s okay to dial back your intensity temporarily. Instead of sticking to your usual routine, you opt for activities that are enjoyable and manageable, like a quick run, simple bodyweight exercises, or a single barbell lift a few times a week. By doing so, you not only maintain your sanity but also fully show up for the other aspects of your life. Over time, as your schedule settles and you regain your momentum, you naturally find yourself progressing towards more complex workouts and routines. Congrats, you’re a wave rider! This isn’t about forcing yourself through the motions but about embracing the journey and allowing your enthusiasm to guide you. That’s the essence of riding the wave – adapting, enjoying, and ultimately thriving in the face of life’s ebbs and flows.
What are your wave riding strategies? Share them with me!
