Superhero Stuff
In my continuing efforts to build myself into a functional superhero, I’ve found a weightlifting routine from the military’s pararescue groups that promotes functional strength and agility over bigger muscles. I’ve had a few email conversations with a guy who runs a website based on this stuff, and have read several interesting documents on the topic. I love this kind of learning, because I feel like it’s forward motion in my quest to be a much more fit overall kind of guy.
One area where I need to improve myself is stretching. I’ve pretty much abandoned my flexibility for other goals, especially after a recent rash of studies that say stretching isn’t exactly great for you. (Yes, there are several counter studies as well). I’ve decided that I’m either going to find a yoga class for cheap, or maybe martial arts (something like Tai Chi, which is flexibility based). I’m leaning towards yoga, because it’s less expensive, but I’m open to either. But man, yoga. I’ve read REAL MEN DO YOGA, but I’m still not convinced. Ah, my own bag.
I haven’t really settled on my goals for 2005. I’m leaning towards more adventure-based races, but not “adventure racing” per se. That sport is expensive, and heavily based on gear. It might just get to the point that I do races for fun, and craft my own “adventures” separate to those. Not sure yet. I’m seriously considering doing a triathlon or two this season, as well. But only in the dead of summer, so I can avoid getting a wetsuit, and only if I can use a cruddy bike or a rental or something for the cycling.
I’m on track for losing another 1-2 pounds this week. Today’s scale reading is two pounds lighter than yesterday, and I feel confident I can preserve that balance as the week goes on. It’s not the pounds. It’s what I’m going to do with an even leaner body.
I’ll post my 2005 goals by the end of this week.
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Comments
That rocks, Chris - both the attitude and the plan. I’ve been meaning to take a stab at Yoga too, especially since its free with a Gold’s membership - maybe we can make some kind of deal where I’ll check it out if you do, and vice versa? The news on the scale is really impressive, but not as much as your renewed confidence is.
That rocks, Chris - both the attitude and the plan. I’ve been meaning to take a stab at Yoga too, especially since its free with a Gold’s membership - maybe we can make some kind of deal where I’ll check it out if you do, and vice versa? The news on the scale is really impressive, but not as much as your renewed confidence is.
Hi Chris. I’m a fairly new reader (about 3 weeks or so) and thought this is the perfect opportunity to jump in and actually comment.
I think it’s FABULOUS that you are considering Yoga. And Tai Chi, for that matter. Both are excellent for that “functional” strength and agility you mentioned. Flexibility is so important, I believe. And so many men - especially - do NOT get in enough flexibility training. Most just skip it all together.
I thought I’d let you in on the secret: REAL MEN DO YOGA! My husband does a Yoga/Tai Chi/Pilates class with me — or without me, just depends — at least twice a week. And he loves it because he feels so much better and he can do so many things that he couldn’t a year ago.
Give it a try. I think that if you give it a fair shake, you’ll really enjoy it and see the benefits from it in no time flat.
Best of luck to you.
Lee, Miles to Go
http://bluezfire.org/mtg/
Sounds cool, Chris. Can you post the weightlifting website?
Adventure based racing? Indiana Jones? James Bond? This sounds like it could get wild. :)