Blog | Training KNOW WHEN TO HOLD’EM, KNOW WHEN TO FOLD’EM

Author / Raven Winters

5-8 minutes read

Train Smart, Not Stupid.

Today we’re diving into a fundamental truth that every lifter needs to understand: “Know when to hold’em, know when to fold’em.”

The Training Rollercoaster

If you’ve spent any amount of time under the bar, you know the feeling. Some days, those weights feel lighter than a feather, like you could hoist the entire gym if you wanted to. And then, there are those other days when the weights might as well be forged from adamantium—every ounce feels like it’s fighting to keep you grounded.

Seize the Light Days

Now, here’s the kicker, and it’s crucial: when you find yourself in the fortunate position where those weights feel like they’re made of foam, that’s your moment. That’s when you seize the opportunity to go all in and chase a new personal record, regardless of what your meticulously planned program says.

Unleash the Beast

On those days, when the universe seems to be conspiring in your favor, don’t hold back. Don’t let caution or fear of deviation from your program deter you. Unleash the beast within, load that barbell with a few extra pounds, and defy gravity. Crush your previous best. Break through barriers, and let your victory roar through the gym.

Survival Mode on Heavy Days

But, and this is where wisdom comes into play, there will be days when the weights don’t budge as you’d like them to. On those days, when even lifting a feather feels like a Herculean task, you don’t need heroics. Your only mission is survival.

Patience, Grasshopper

Accept that the weights aren’t on your side that day. Acknowledge that not every session will be an all-time high. These are the days when you embrace patience and humility. You don’t need to set records; you just need to endure.

Tomorrow Is Another Day

Remember this: the weights will be there tomorrow. One subpar session doesn’t define your journey or your progress. It’s a hiccup in the grand scheme of things. On these heavy days, simply complete your programmed work, focus on form and technique, and know that you’ve preserved your strength for the battles ahead.

A Lesson in Adaptability

So, what’s the takeaway here? It’s a lesson in adaptability. It’s about listening to your body and recognizing the ebb and flow of strength. It’s the understanding that not every day will be a PR day, and that’s perfectly fine.

Balance and Wisdom

In your quest for strength and progress, remember to balance the relentless pursuit of greatness with the wisdom to discern when to go all out and when to dial it back. It’s the delicate dance between ambition and pragmatism.

Conclusion: The Iron’s Rhythm

In the world of strength and conditioning, the iron has its own rhythm, and it doesn’t always march to your beat. Some days, it’s your ally, and on others, it’s your nemesis. But as a lifter, it’s your job to recognize these fluctuations and respond accordingly.

If you’re feeling like training’s giving you a royal beatdown, give Grindstone a whirl. It’s our most adaptable training regimen, crafted to keep you sturdy even when life’s throwing curveballs your way. Grindstone isn’t just a program; it’s a lifestyle hack, tailored for those hustling in the boardroom, juggling parental duties, hitting the books, or grinding it out on the field.

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