Consistency. Move that pile of dirt every day
june 23, 2021 | WORDS BY matt johnson
There are a multitude of parallels in training and life because they ultimately require a similar set of values to be successful, the most impactful of all, in my opinion, is consistency.
Consistency is key to reaching any goal you set in life, whether that’s learning a new skill, developing a habit, working towards a PR, or striving to reach a healthier lifestyle. Consistency and the discipline required to maintain it are paramount. When motivation fails, consistency wins.
When it comes to training, your consistency will be the glue that holds it all together and allows for long term and life long success. This doesn’t mean hitting the class 7 days a week, 365 days a year and going pedal to the metal is how you reach your goal (but hey, if that works for you, go for it).
When I am reflecting on my path to reaching a goal or struggling to maintain consistency in my training, I turn to the words of one of my favorite coaches, John Welbourn…
“Training is like moving a pile of dirt. Some days you use a shovel, some days you use a spoon but as long as you move some dirt, you’re headed in the right direction.”
Moving dirt with a shovel - Those days in the gym where everything is going right, the weight feels light, you’ve got a bounce in your step and it feels like no one can stop you! Take advantage of those times because those days aren’t always there and that’s ok! Use that shovel while it’s efficient and move that dirt!
Moving dirt with a spoon - Those days in the gym when you’re tired, had less than optimal sleep, the bar feels heavy, or you are just having a rough day. Your training may look like a session of light stretching or putting on a podcast and going for a walk...great, you are still moving the pile.
Ultimately it comes down to the simple fact that your pile of dirt, whatever that is for you, is still there and you still have to move it. The pile isn’t getting any smaller so do what you can and do your best.
