We’ve all had those days where we debate on dragging ourselves to the gym only to go through the motions. I myself have these days, especially after a long day of work. Sometimes we need that mental break, that ability to half-ass our workout to make the next one even better!
I firmly believe that the only bad workout is the one that didn't happen. However, while the occasional half-assed workout is not a problem, the habit that can fester is. When you consistently start training and are just going through the motions, you leave a lot of potential gains on the table. Eventually this can be a silent killer when it comes to your progress in the gym. You drag your ass to the power rack, perform some mediocre sets, skip a couple stretches, and you're out the door to go back home.
Congratulations! You just did the bare minimum to not mentally beat yourself up just because you showed up! Then a month later you are left wondering, "Why am I not seeing any progress?" or "My diet is on point-why aren't I improving?" This is the issue that, "going through the motions", creates. It gives you just enough training stimulus to keep you from recognizing that you are not truly satisfied after leaving the gym.
I get it, sometimes our minds and bodies need a break. There are days where the couch seems like the best option, and we end up rationalizing our way out of a workout. Sometimes we truly need this to make the next workout better and more beneficial.
If this sounds like you, the first step to fixing a problem is realizing you have one. Stop settling for mediocre workouts and get focused like you were. Start taking the gains back that you have been so casually leaving on the table. To have a beneficial workout, you have to bring the intensity.
The next time you find yourself in the gym, debating on whether to go through the movements are not, ask yourself is it worth it? You may truly need that mental and physical break, if so take it. However, do NOT let it become a habit. Showing up is half the battle, conquer the other half of the battle and yourself by training with intensity and focus.
Remember: Strong Today, Stronger Tomorrow
Keep Killing It.
- Jackson Futrell