Training for sanity

Most of us realise that most form of exercise creates endorphin release. Backed by science etc etc. Bro facts. But there is more to it than just the pump and satisfaction of looking in the mirror.

For me it’s an identity. It fits neatly into the cycle of life. I need to sleep well to recover from training. I need to eat plenty to recover and fuel exercise. I need to be at the gym between clients to exercise. It’s my work and my hobby, my way of life. And there’s always something to learn, more to discover. More pieces to put together. It’s a way to learn so much about yourself. And this can be done more effectively in a thriving, inspirational community like the Commando Temple.

Obviously working in a gym it’s easier to have the time and motivation to do my own training. But like anyone, I have down days. Days where, for whatever reason, I just cannot be arsed. Being around the right people makes such a difference when I feel like this. I feel this is where the post-covid work from home guys are missing out. Even silly little interactions are so important for our mental health.

Anyway, this is very one sided I know. I am very much geared towards training a lot and this has developed over years. However, this mindset could work on any hobby or past time. Whatever it might be, it might give you a sense of identity and purpose. The people involved might be what makes it. For some reason thoughts of crack dens came to mind just then - probably not an ideal past time despite the clientele bringing a certain ambience that’s necessary for the experience.

Try and get involved in something positive, sobering. What I love about this gym is the connections and friendships I’ve made here are nothing to do with drugs and alcohol. This in itself is refreshing and character building. It keeps me sane and shows me that you can have fun and use something other than mind altering substances to feel good, that life doesn’t need to be boring without.

If you decide to start training, for whatever reason, try to enjoy the journey, the process. You may have an aim but it’s likely that will morph and change as you go along. Notice how capable you are, remind yourself where you’ve got to compared to where you started FREQUENTLY. Train until your only thoughts are on what you’re doing right then and there. Train for sanity.