Training for Awareness

One of the most important, but rarely discussed, benefits of strength training is the awareness it brings. When doing an Intro Session at Gain, I tell prospective clients that we use time in the gym to create better default patterns outside of the gym. If you learn to deadlift with a kettlebell or barbell, when you go to pick up a a new shrub to transplant into your garden, you automatically use sound hip hinging mechanics. At first, it requires brain power. Eventually, you fault to the best position without any hesitation.

Developing this awareness can also help you notice bad movement habits. Hannah, now 22 weeks pregnant had this realization the other day. After her normal run, she came in with burning shins. Neither of us were sure why until later that night it hit her; her stride has changed. It’s okay that her stride is changing with her body, she’s growing a human after all. The awareness around her running will let her be more careful though, instead of just running through the pain.

I mentioned I’m an over chin-tucker on Instagram yesterday. That means when I do things like kettlebell swings, deadlifts and the olympic movements I look at the ground, not keeping my eyes on the horizon. During a run yesterday my tired legs were low-gear chugging up a big hill near my house. My head slipped forward and my shoulder followed by rounding - I was in the bad posture that shows up when I’m lifting. It’s also the posture that I fall into when I’m on the computer too long. 

The point is heavy lifting and long efforts will show your bad habits. If you’re aware, you can notice it and make the proper adjustments. When we’re fatigued, we want to find the path of least resistance, which isn’t always the best option. The more training you have under your belt, the sooner you will notice your posture on the computer and your slouching while driving. Don’t just train for the sake of training, train to learn your body, to learn yourself.