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Maximise Fitness Training When Injured
Discover the 100% of 80% principle!
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Life rarely goes according to plan, especially for athletes. Injuries, work demands, and family responsibilities can often leave us operating at less than our full capacity. But what if the key to thriving during these setbacks (and maintaining your fitness training when injured) isn't about lamenting what we've lost, but rather about maximizing what we still have?
Enter the "100% of 80% principle" - a mindset shift that can transform your approach to training and life.
Understanding the 100% of 80% Principle
When faced with a setback that limits your usual capacity - let's say an injury that reduces your training ability to 80% - the natural reaction might be frustration or disappointment. However, the 100% of 80% principle encourages you to shift your focus. Instead of dwelling on the 20% you've lost, concentrate on giving 100% effort to the 80% you can still do.
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My Personal Experience
After experiencing an injury last year, I found that changing my perspective allowed me to dial into other aspects I could still control, such as nutrition and sleep. This shift in focus not only helped me maintain my fitness levels even when injured but also improved areas I had previously neglected. By embracing the 100% of 80% principle, I turned what could have been a setback into an opportunity for growth.
Applying the Principle to Injury Recovery
For runners and other athletes, injuries are often an inevitable part of the journey. When sidelined by a sprain or strain, it's easy to fixate on what you can't do - your usual mileage or intensity might be out of reach. However, this period can become a powerful opportunity to shift your focus and put 100% effort into fitness training while injured, maximizing the capabilities you still have.
Here's how you can maximize your training while injured:
- Rehabilitation and Strength Training
Use this time to work on areas that might have been neglected. Any weaknesses you've been ignoring? Now's the time to address them. Incorporate resistance training into your program - it's just as critical as speedwork and long runs, if not more so during recovery.
- Nutrition and Recovery
Injury time is the perfect opportunity to dial in on optimizing your diet and recovery routines. A balanced diet and consistent 8-hour sleep schedule can make a world of difference in the healing process. These habits should be a cornerstone of your strategy to return to running stronger than ever.
- Mental Training
Not being able to train or race as usual can be frustrating, but it's an excellent time to work on your mental game. Visualize what it will feel like to be back running or competing in that target race. The mental resilience you build now will be a valuable asset when you return to full training.
- Cross-Training
Depending on your injury, you might be able to engage in low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, or using an elliptical machine. These can help maintain your cardiovascular fitness while giving your injury time to heal.
- Technique Analysis
Use this downtime to analyze your running form. Watch videos of yourself running, consult with a coach, or read up on proper techniques. Identifying and correcting form issues now can prevent future injuries and improve your performance when you return.
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Overcoming the Emotional Hurdles
There's no denying that being injured can be emotionally challenging. You might feel frustrated, anxious, or even depressed about your inability to train as usual. However, channelling your energy into these alternative areas can help you maintain a positive outlook. Remember, by focusing on what you can do rather than what you can't, you're setting yourself up to return to full training not only healed but improved in ways you might not have considered.
Applying the Principle Beyond Athletics
This mindset isn't just for athletes. In our personal and professional lives, we often face situations where we can't give 100%. Here's how the 100% of 80% principle can help in everyday life:
Work-Life Balance: When work demands more time, maximize the quality of the time you do have for personal life.
Family Responsibilities: When family demands feel overwhelming, focus on being fully present in the moments you have, making them more meaningful.
Professional Development: If you can't dedicate as much time to learning new skills as you'd like, concentrate on mastering one skill at a time.
Conclusion: Embracing the Mindset Shift
Putting 100% into the 80% you can control transforms challenges into opportunities. Whether you're dealing with an injury, balancing work and life, or managing family demands, this approach can help you stay focused and productive. By shifting your mindset from what's lost to what remains, you'll be able to maximize your potential, even in less-than-ideal circumstances. The article ‘The Power of Positive Self-Talk’ might help you change your mindset and can be applied to all types of training.
Remember, setbacks are temporary, but the growth you achieve during these times can have lasting benefits. So, the next time you face a limitation, ask yourself: "How can I give 100% to the capacity I have right now?" The answer might just lead you to new heights of performance and personal growth.
Fun - Honesty - Simplicity - Smash Life - Mental Toughness - HARD WORK
ENGINE
Double Mikko’s Triangle. We’re doubling the time and aiming to double the calories. Can you match your pace and hold on?
GYMNASTICS
Tuesday morning, we're diving into all things handstand push-ups with both strict and kipping variations, plus some fun progressions to challenge your upside-down game. Expect overhead strength work and spicy core finishers, too.
Toes-to-bar will take centre stage on Thursday evening with drills on the low bar and rig to sharpen your skills. Then we’ll move on to capacity work before wrapping it up with core and lat work to boost strength, control, and coordination.
HYROX
Build the Upper body strength you need for HYROX with a focus on sled pulls, farmers carries, push-ups (to power through your burpees), push presses (for stronger wall balls) and SkiErg conditioning.
MOBILITY
We have been quite dominant with mobility for the lower body; per request, we will stick with the flows, but make sure we hit the upper body harder this weekend. This session will be aimed towards the people that have shoulder niggles.
PURE STRENGTH
This week's pure strength session marks the start of the deadlift cycle, following high-volume RDLS. We also have some heavy box squats and volume reps to finish up on Monday. On Wednesday, we will start a paused bench press progression, incorporating some overhead presses and barbell rows as accessories.
WEIGHTLIFTING
This week in weightlifting, we are focusing on developing the split jerk technique. Followed by a classic complex of clean + front squat + jerk.
Monday Ride
A ride dedicated to group riding skills and some fitness. Coach Rob Foster leads this ride, if you'd like to join email Rob Foster
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Bike DXB
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner. We start together, run hard then finish together and chat about it over a coffee and breakfast.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Our weekly endurance ride.
Please email Rob Foster for more details.
Time: 05:59 am
Location: Bottom of the Stick, Al Qudra.
Monday
Time: 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Tempo
This week will be dialling into that Tempo effort (7/10 RPE) for 8 mins blocks. You will take a 3 min recovery after each block and repeat the sequence 3x.
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. This week we will be running 200s and 600s at 3km and 5km pace. We will help you identify the best pace group for your ability at the session.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
Today we have intervals in the morning and evening. We will be running1km at effort, into 4 x 400s and then back to 1km of effort. Push hard on the 400s, these should be a 9/10 RPE.
Friday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run
This week we will be running
10X
1min @ 9/10; 1min @ 3/10
5mins easy jog
then,
4X
4mins @ 7/10; 1min @ 1/10 (easy jog/walking)
Coffee post session at Common Grounds at 7am.
Monday:
We start the week with some single-leg deadlifts into a power clean front squat complex, followed by a leg-focused workout that is sure to set the tone for the week.
Strength:
A) Every 2:30 x 5 6/6 Single Leg Deadlift
B) Every 90secs x 5 2 power clean + 2 front squat
Conditioning:
17min AMRAP
3 Power Clean (60/40)
6 Front Squat
9 Box Jump
Tuesday:
On Tuesday, it's all about push and pull in the strength work, with pull-ups, bench press, gorilla rows, and some static overhead strength.
Strength:
A) EMOM x 6 - 15-20 sec UB kipping pull-ups
B) Alt EMOM x 10 - 8 DB Bench Press / 12 Alt Gorilla Row
C) Alt EMOM x 9 -M1 - 30 Sec Dual KB OH / 30 sec hollow hold / 30 sec arch hold/rock
Conditioning:
4 rounds for time:
16 Alt KB STOH
1 Lap Car Park Farmers Carry
10 Burpees Over KB
30 Double Unders
Wednesday:
On Wednesday, we will start with some heavy squats, followed by work on both the GHD hip extension and the GHD sit-up, and then a tough interval workout.
Strength:
A) Every 2 mins x 6 - 3 2 2 1 1 back squat + 1 set AMRAP @ 80% of top single
B) Alt EMOM x 12 - 5/10 GHD Sit Ups / 30 sec Pallof Press L&R / 10-15 Hip Extensions
Conditioning
In a 3-minute window:
15 TTB
30 wall balls
AMRAP cal row
Rest 2 mins x 3
Thursday:
On Thursday, we have some bodybuilding in the strength work, followed by a real test of grip and capacity in the workout with high-volume dumbbell snatches.
Strength:
A) Every 2 mins x 5 6/6 DB Strict Press
B) Alt EMOM x 9 - 30 sec banded tricep extension / 15-20 DB Lateral Raise / 15-20 Barbell Bicep Curls
Conditioning:
For time:
120 DB Hang Snatch
Every 3 mins
15/12 Cal Assualt Bike
10 Hand Release Push Ups
Friday:
Finally, we conclude the week with an awesome partner workout that combines aerobic work with strongman exercises.
Strength:
EMOM x 5 6 Sandbag Over Bar
Conditioning:
In Pairs for Time:
800m run together
20 Sandbag Over Bar
100 Cal Ski
Park Run Together
20 Sandbag Over Bar
80 Cal Ski
Half Park Run Together
20 Sandbag Over Bar
60 Cal Ski
Car Park Run (Together)
20 Sandbag Over Bar
40 Cal Ski
Life rarely goes according to plan, especially for athletes. Injuries, work demands, and family responsibilities can often leave us operating at less than our full capacity. But what if the key to thriving during these setbacks (and maintaining your fitness training when injured) isn't about lamenting what we've lost, but rather about maximizing what we still have?
Enter the "100% of 80% principle" - a mindset shift that can transform your approach to training and life.
Understanding the 100% of 80% Principle
When faced with a setback that limits your usual capacity - let's say an injury that reduces your training ability to 80% - the natural reaction might be frustration or disappointment. However, the 100% of 80% principle encourages you to shift your focus. Instead of dwelling on the 20% you've lost, concentrate on giving 100% effort to the 80% you can still do.
My Personal Experience
After experiencing an injury last year, I found that changing my perspective allowed me to dial into other aspects I could still control, such as nutrition and sleep. This shift in focus not only helped me maintain my fitness levels even when injured but also improved areas I had previously neglected. By embracing the 100% of 80% principle, I turned what could have been a setback into an opportunity for growth.
Applying the Principle to Injury Recovery
For runners and other athletes, injuries are often an inevitable part of the journey. When sidelined by a sprain or strain, it's easy to fixate on what you can't do - your usual mileage or intensity might be out of reach. However, this period can become a powerful opportunity to shift your focus and put 100% effort into fitness training while injured, maximizing the capabilities you still have.
Here's how you can maximize your training while injured:
- Rehabilitation and Strength Training
Use this time to work on areas that might have been neglected. Any weaknesses you've been ignoring? Now's the time to address them. Incorporate resistance training into your program - it's just as critical as speedwork and long runs, if not more so during recovery.
- Nutrition and Recovery
Injury time is the perfect opportunity to dial in on optimizing your diet and recovery routines. A balanced diet and consistent 8-hour sleep schedule can make a world of difference in the healing process. These habits should be a cornerstone of your strategy to return to running stronger than ever.
- Mental Training
Not being able to train or race as usual can be frustrating, but it's an excellent time to work on your mental game. Visualize what it will feel like to be back running or competing in that target race. The mental resilience you build now will be a valuable asset when you return to full training.
- Cross-Training
Depending on your injury, you might be able to engage in low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, or using an elliptical machine. These can help maintain your cardiovascular fitness while giving your injury time to heal.
- Technique Analysis
Use this downtime to analyze your running form. Watch videos of yourself running, consult with a coach, or read up on proper techniques. Identifying and correcting form issues now can prevent future injuries and improve your performance when you return.
Overcoming the Emotional Hurdles
There's no denying that being injured can be emotionally challenging. You might feel frustrated, anxious, or even depressed about your inability to train as usual. However, channelling your energy into these alternative areas can help you maintain a positive outlook. Remember, by focusing on what you can do rather than what you can't, you're setting yourself up to return to full training not only healed but improved in ways you might not have considered.
Applying the Principle Beyond Athletics
This mindset isn't just for athletes. In our personal and professional lives, we often face situations where we can't give 100%. Here's how the 100% of 80% principle can help in everyday life:
Work-Life Balance: When work demands more time, maximize the quality of the time you do have for personal life.
Family Responsibilities: When family demands feel overwhelming, focus on being fully present in the moments you have, making them more meaningful.
Professional Development: If you can't dedicate as much time to learning new skills as you'd like, concentrate on mastering one skill at a time.
Conclusion: Embracing the Mindset Shift
Putting 100% into the 80% you can control transforms challenges into opportunities. Whether you're dealing with an injury, balancing work and life, or managing family demands, this approach can help you stay focused and productive. By shifting your mindset from what's lost to what remains, you'll be able to maximize your potential, even in less-than-ideal circumstances. The article ‘The Power of Positive Self-Talk’ might help you change your mindset and can be applied to all types of training.
Remember, setbacks are temporary, but the growth you achieve during these times can have lasting benefits. So, the next time you face a limitation, ask yourself: "How can I give 100% to the capacity I have right now?" The answer might just lead you to new heights of performance and personal growth.
Fun - Honesty - Simplicity - Smash Life - Mental Toughness - HARD WORK
Monday Ride
A ride dedicated to group riding skills and some fitness. Coach Rob Foster leads this ride, if you'd like to join email Rob Foster
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Bike DXB
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner. We start together, run hard then finish together and chat about it over a coffee and breakfast.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Our weekly endurance ride.
Please email Rob Foster for more details.
Time: 05:59 am
Location: Bottom of the Stick, Al Qudra.
Monday
Time: 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Tempo
This week will be dialling into that Tempo effort (7/10 RPE) for 8 mins blocks. You will take a 3 min recovery after each block and repeat the sequence 3x.
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. This week we will be running 200s and 600s at 3km and 5km pace. We will help you identify the best pace group for your ability at the session.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
Today we have intervals in the morning and evening. We will be running1km at effort, into 4 x 400s and then back to 1km of effort. Push hard on the 400s, these should be a 9/10 RPE.
Friday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run
This week we will be running
10X
1min @ 9/10; 1min @ 3/10
5mins easy jog
then,
4X
4mins @ 7/10; 1min @ 1/10 (easy jog/walking)
Coffee post session at Common Grounds at 7am.
Monday:
We start the week with some single-leg deadlifts into a power clean front squat complex, followed by a leg-focused workout that is sure to set the tone for the week.
Strength:
A) Every 2:30 x 5 6/6 Single Leg Deadlift
B) Every 90secs x 5 2 power clean + 2 front squat
Conditioning:
17min AMRAP
3 Power Clean (60/40)
6 Front Squat
9 Box Jump
Tuesday:
On Tuesday, it's all about push and pull in the strength work, with pull-ups, bench press, gorilla rows, and some static overhead strength.
Strength:
A) EMOM x 6 - 15-20 sec UB kipping pull-ups
B) Alt EMOM x 10 - 8 DB Bench Press / 12 Alt Gorilla Row
C) Alt EMOM x 9 -M1 - 30 Sec Dual KB OH / 30 sec hollow hold / 30 sec arch hold/rock
Conditioning:
4 rounds for time:
16 Alt KB STOH
1 Lap Car Park Farmers Carry
10 Burpees Over KB
30 Double Unders
Wednesday:
On Wednesday, we will start with some heavy squats, followed by work on both the GHD hip extension and the GHD sit-up, and then a tough interval workout.
Strength:
A) Every 2 mins x 6 - 3 2 2 1 1 back squat + 1 set AMRAP @ 80% of top single
B) Alt EMOM x 12 - 5/10 GHD Sit Ups / 30 sec Pallof Press L&R / 10-15 Hip Extensions
Conditioning
In a 3-minute window:
15 TTB
30 wall balls
AMRAP cal row
Rest 2 mins x 3
Thursday:
On Thursday, we have some bodybuilding in the strength work, followed by a real test of grip and capacity in the workout with high-volume dumbbell snatches.
Strength:
A) Every 2 mins x 5 6/6 DB Strict Press
B) Alt EMOM x 9 - 30 sec banded tricep extension / 15-20 DB Lateral Raise / 15-20 Barbell Bicep Curls
Conditioning:
For time:
120 DB Hang Snatch
Every 3 mins
15/12 Cal Assualt Bike
10 Hand Release Push Ups
Friday:
Finally, we conclude the week with an awesome partner workout that combines aerobic work with strongman exercises.
Strength:
EMOM x 5 6 Sandbag Over Bar
Conditioning:
In Pairs for Time:
800m run together
20 Sandbag Over Bar
100 Cal Ski
Park Run Together
20 Sandbag Over Bar
80 Cal Ski
Half Park Run Together
20 Sandbag Over Bar
60 Cal Ski
Car Park Run (Together)
20 Sandbag Over Bar
40 Cal Ski
ENGINE
Double Mikko’s Triangle. We’re doubling the time and aiming to double the calories. Can you match your pace and hold on?
GYMNASTICS
Tuesday morning, we're diving into all things handstand push-ups with both strict and kipping variations, plus some fun progressions to challenge your upside-down game. Expect overhead strength work and spicy core finishers, too.
Toes-to-bar will take centre stage on Thursday evening with drills on the low bar and rig to sharpen your skills. Then we’ll move on to capacity work before wrapping it up with core and lat work to boost strength, control, and coordination.
HYROX
Build the Upper body strength you need for HYROX with a focus on sled pulls, farmers carries, push-ups (to power through your burpees), push presses (for stronger wall balls) and SkiErg conditioning.
MOBILITY
We have been quite dominant with mobility for the lower body; per request, we will stick with the flows, but make sure we hit the upper body harder this weekend. This session will be aimed towards the people that have shoulder niggles.
PURE STRENGTH
This week's pure strength session marks the start of the deadlift cycle, following high-volume RDLS. We also have some heavy box squats and volume reps to finish up on Monday. On Wednesday, we will start a paused bench press progression, incorporating some overhead presses and barbell rows as accessories.
WEIGHTLIFTING
This week in weightlifting, we are focusing on developing the split jerk technique. Followed by a classic complex of clean + front squat + jerk.
Life rarely goes according to plan, especially for athletes. Injuries, work demands, and family responsibilities can often leave us operating at less than our full capacity. But what if the key to thriving during these setbacks (and maintaining your fitness training when injured) isn't about lamenting what we've lost, but rather about maximizing what we still have?
Enter the "100% of 80% principle" - a mindset shift that can transform your approach to training and life.
Understanding the 100% of 80% Principle
When faced with a setback that limits your usual capacity - let's say an injury that reduces your training ability to 80% - the natural reaction might be frustration or disappointment. However, the 100% of 80% principle encourages you to shift your focus. Instead of dwelling on the 20% you've lost, concentrate on giving 100% effort to the 80% you can still do.
My Personal Experience
After experiencing an injury last year, I found that changing my perspective allowed me to dial into other aspects I could still control, such as nutrition and sleep. This shift in focus not only helped me maintain my fitness levels even when injured but also improved areas I had previously neglected. By embracing the 100% of 80% principle, I turned what could have been a setback into an opportunity for growth.
Applying the Principle to Injury Recovery
For runners and other athletes, injuries are often an inevitable part of the journey. When sidelined by a sprain or strain, it's easy to fixate on what you can't do - your usual mileage or intensity might be out of reach. However, this period can become a powerful opportunity to shift your focus and put 100% effort into fitness training while injured, maximizing the capabilities you still have.
Here's how you can maximize your training while injured:
- Rehabilitation and Strength Training
Use this time to work on areas that might have been neglected. Any weaknesses you've been ignoring? Now's the time to address them. Incorporate resistance training into your program - it's just as critical as speedwork and long runs, if not more so during recovery.
- Nutrition and Recovery
Injury time is the perfect opportunity to dial in on optimizing your diet and recovery routines. A balanced diet and consistent 8-hour sleep schedule can make a world of difference in the healing process. These habits should be a cornerstone of your strategy to return to running stronger than ever.
- Mental Training
Not being able to train or race as usual can be frustrating, but it's an excellent time to work on your mental game. Visualize what it will feel like to be back running or competing in that target race. The mental resilience you build now will be a valuable asset when you return to full training.
- Cross-Training
Depending on your injury, you might be able to engage in low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, or using an elliptical machine. These can help maintain your cardiovascular fitness while giving your injury time to heal.
- Technique Analysis
Use this downtime to analyze your running form. Watch videos of yourself running, consult with a coach, or read up on proper techniques. Identifying and correcting form issues now can prevent future injuries and improve your performance when you return.
Overcoming the Emotional Hurdles
There's no denying that being injured can be emotionally challenging. You might feel frustrated, anxious, or even depressed about your inability to train as usual. However, channelling your energy into these alternative areas can help you maintain a positive outlook. Remember, by focusing on what you can do rather than what you can't, you're setting yourself up to return to full training not only healed but improved in ways you might not have considered.
Applying the Principle Beyond Athletics
This mindset isn't just for athletes. In our personal and professional lives, we often face situations where we can't give 100%. Here's how the 100% of 80% principle can help in everyday life:
Work-Life Balance: When work demands more time, maximize the quality of the time you do have for personal life.
Family Responsibilities: When family demands feel overwhelming, focus on being fully present in the moments you have, making them more meaningful.
Professional Development: If you can't dedicate as much time to learning new skills as you'd like, concentrate on mastering one skill at a time.
Conclusion: Embracing the Mindset Shift
Putting 100% into the 80% you can control transforms challenges into opportunities. Whether you're dealing with an injury, balancing work and life, or managing family demands, this approach can help you stay focused and productive. By shifting your mindset from what's lost to what remains, you'll be able to maximize your potential, even in less-than-ideal circumstances. The article ‘The Power of Positive Self-Talk’ might help you change your mindset and can be applied to all types of training.
Remember, setbacks are temporary, but the growth you achieve during these times can have lasting benefits. So, the next time you face a limitation, ask yourself: "How can I give 100% to the capacity I have right now?" The answer might just lead you to new heights of performance and personal growth.
Fun - Honesty - Simplicity - Smash Life - Mental Toughness - HARD WORK
Monday
Time: 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Tempo
This week will be dialling into that Tempo effort (7/10 RPE) for 8 mins blocks. You will take a 3 min recovery after each block and repeat the sequence 3x.
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. This week we will be running 200s and 600s at 3km and 5km pace. We will help you identify the best pace group for your ability at the session.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
Today we have intervals in the morning and evening. We will be running1km at effort, into 4 x 400s and then back to 1km of effort. Push hard on the 400s, these should be a 9/10 RPE.
Friday
Time: 5:59am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run
This week we will be running
10X
1min @ 9/10; 1min @ 3/10
5mins easy jog
then,
4X
4mins @ 7/10; 1min @ 1/10 (easy jog/walking)
Coffee post session at Common Grounds at 7am.
Monday:
We start the week with some single-leg deadlifts into a power clean front squat complex, followed by a leg-focused workout that is sure to set the tone for the week.
Strength:
A) Every 2:30 x 5 6/6 Single Leg Deadlift
B) Every 90secs x 5 2 power clean + 2 front squat
Conditioning:
17min AMRAP
3 Power Clean (60/40)
6 Front Squat
9 Box Jump
Tuesday:
On Tuesday, it's all about push and pull in the strength work, with pull-ups, bench press, gorilla rows, and some static overhead strength.
Strength:
A) EMOM x 6 - 15-20 sec UB kipping pull-ups
B) Alt EMOM x 10 - 8 DB Bench Press / 12 Alt Gorilla Row
C) Alt EMOM x 9 -M1 - 30 Sec Dual KB OH / 30 sec hollow hold / 30 sec arch hold/rock
Conditioning:
4 rounds for time:
16 Alt KB STOH
1 Lap Car Park Farmers Carry
10 Burpees Over KB
30 Double Unders
Wednesday:
On Wednesday, we will start with some heavy squats, followed by work on both the GHD hip extension and the GHD sit-up, and then a tough interval workout.
Strength:
A) Every 2 mins x 6 - 3 2 2 1 1 back squat + 1 set AMRAP @ 80% of top single
B) Alt EMOM x 12 - 5/10 GHD Sit Ups / 30 sec Pallof Press L&R / 10-15 Hip Extensions
Conditioning
In a 3-minute window:
15 TTB
30 wall balls
AMRAP cal row
Rest 2 mins x 3
Thursday:
On Thursday, we have some bodybuilding in the strength work, followed by a real test of grip and capacity in the workout with high-volume dumbbell snatches.
Strength:
A) Every 2 mins x 5 6/6 DB Strict Press
B) Alt EMOM x 9 - 30 sec banded tricep extension / 15-20 DB Lateral Raise / 15-20 Barbell Bicep Curls
Conditioning:
For time:
120 DB Hang Snatch
Every 3 mins
15/12 Cal Assualt Bike
10 Hand Release Push Ups
Friday:
Finally, we conclude the week with an awesome partner workout that combines aerobic work with strongman exercises.
Strength:
EMOM x 5 6 Sandbag Over Bar
Conditioning:
In Pairs for Time:
800m run together
20 Sandbag Over Bar
100 Cal Ski
Park Run Together
20 Sandbag Over Bar
80 Cal Ski
Half Park Run Together
20 Sandbag Over Bar
60 Cal Ski
Car Park Run (Together)
20 Sandbag Over Bar
40 Cal Ski
ENGINE
Double Mikko’s Triangle. We’re doubling the time and aiming to double the calories. Can you match your pace and hold on?
GYMNASTICS
Tuesday morning, we're diving into all things handstand push-ups with both strict and kipping variations, plus some fun progressions to challenge your upside-down game. Expect overhead strength work and spicy core finishers, too.
Toes-to-bar will take centre stage on Thursday evening with drills on the low bar and rig to sharpen your skills. Then we’ll move on to capacity work before wrapping it up with core and lat work to boost strength, control, and coordination.
HYROX
Build the Upper body strength you need for HYROX with a focus on sled pulls, farmers carries, push-ups (to power through your burpees), push presses (for stronger wall balls) and SkiErg conditioning.
MOBILITY
We have been quite dominant with mobility for the lower body; per request, we will stick with the flows, but make sure we hit the upper body harder this weekend. This session will be aimed towards the people that have shoulder niggles.
PURE STRENGTH
This week's pure strength session marks the start of the deadlift cycle, following high-volume RDLS. We also have some heavy box squats and volume reps to finish up on Monday. On Wednesday, we will start a paused bench press progression, incorporating some overhead presses and barbell rows as accessories.
WEIGHTLIFTING
This week in weightlifting, we are focusing on developing the split jerk technique. Followed by a classic complex of clean + front squat + jerk.
Monday Ride
A ride dedicated to group riding skills and some fitness. Coach Rob Foster leads this ride, if you'd like to join email Rob Foster
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: The Loop Cafe, Bike DXB
Track Tuesday
Our weekly on track speed session! For any level of runner looking to build their run speed, threshold and Vo2max fitness and run with the best running community in Dubai.
Time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Location: Dubai Sports City Sports Park
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner. We start together, run hard then finish together and chat about it over a coffee and breakfast.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday - Long Ride
Our weekly endurance ride.
Please email Rob Foster for more details.
Time: 05:59 am
Location: Bottom of the Stick, Al Qudra.
Life rarely goes according to plan, especially for athletes. Injuries, work demands, and family responsibilities can often leave us operating at less than our full capacity. But what if the key to thriving during these setbacks (and maintaining your fitness training when injured) isn't about lamenting what we've lost, but rather about maximizing what we still have?
Enter the "100% of 80% principle" - a mindset shift that can transform your approach to training and life.
Understanding the 100% of 80% Principle
When faced with a setback that limits your usual capacity - let's say an injury that reduces your training ability to 80% - the natural reaction might be frustration or disappointment. However, the 100% of 80% principle encourages you to shift your focus. Instead of dwelling on the 20% you've lost, concentrate on giving 100% effort to the 80% you can still do.
My Personal Experience
After experiencing an injury last year, I found that changing my perspective allowed me to dial into other aspects I could still control, such as nutrition and sleep. This shift in focus not only helped me maintain my fitness levels even when injured but also improved areas I had previously neglected. By embracing the 100% of 80% principle, I turned what could have been a setback into an opportunity for growth.
Applying the Principle to Injury Recovery
For runners and other athletes, injuries are often an inevitable part of the journey. When sidelined by a sprain or strain, it's easy to fixate on what you can't do - your usual mileage or intensity might be out of reach. However, this period can become a powerful opportunity to shift your focus and put 100% effort into fitness training while injured, maximizing the capabilities you still have.
Here's how you can maximize your training while injured:
- Rehabilitation and Strength Training
Use this time to work on areas that might have been neglected. Any weaknesses you've been ignoring? Now's the time to address them. Incorporate resistance training into your program - it's just as critical as speedwork and long runs, if not more so during recovery.
- Nutrition and Recovery
Injury time is the perfect opportunity to dial in on optimizing your diet and recovery routines. A balanced diet and consistent 8-hour sleep schedule can make a world of difference in the healing process. These habits should be a cornerstone of your strategy to return to running stronger than ever.
- Mental Training
Not being able to train or race as usual can be frustrating, but it's an excellent time to work on your mental game. Visualize what it will feel like to be back running or competing in that target race. The mental resilience you build now will be a valuable asset when you return to full training.
- Cross-Training
Depending on your injury, you might be able to engage in low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, or using an elliptical machine. These can help maintain your cardiovascular fitness while giving your injury time to heal.
- Technique Analysis
Use this downtime to analyze your running form. Watch videos of yourself running, consult with a coach, or read up on proper techniques. Identifying and correcting form issues now can prevent future injuries and improve your performance when you return.
Overcoming the Emotional Hurdles
There's no denying that being injured can be emotionally challenging. You might feel frustrated, anxious, or even depressed about your inability to train as usual. However, channelling your energy into these alternative areas can help you maintain a positive outlook. Remember, by focusing on what you can do rather than what you can't, you're setting yourself up to return to full training not only healed but improved in ways you might not have considered.
Applying the Principle Beyond Athletics
This mindset isn't just for athletes. In our personal and professional lives, we often face situations where we can't give 100%. Here's how the 100% of 80% principle can help in everyday life:
Work-Life Balance: When work demands more time, maximize the quality of the time you do have for personal life.
Family Responsibilities: When family demands feel overwhelming, focus on being fully present in the moments you have, making them more meaningful.
Professional Development: If you can't dedicate as much time to learning new skills as you'd like, concentrate on mastering one skill at a time.
Conclusion: Embracing the Mindset Shift
Putting 100% into the 80% you can control transforms challenges into opportunities. Whether you're dealing with an injury, balancing work and life, or managing family demands, this approach can help you stay focused and productive. By shifting your mindset from what's lost to what remains, you'll be able to maximize your potential, even in less-than-ideal circumstances. The article ‘The Power of Positive Self-Talk’ might help you change your mindset and can be applied to all types of training.
Remember, setbacks are temporary, but the growth you achieve during these times can have lasting benefits. So, the next time you face a limitation, ask yourself: "How can I give 100% to the capacity I have right now?" The answer might just lead you to new heights of performance and personal growth.
Fun - Honesty - Simplicity - Smash Life - Mental Toughness - HARD WORK
Life rarely goes according to plan, especially for athletes. Injuries, work demands, and family responsibilities can often leave us operating at less than our full capacity. But what if the key to thriving during these setbacks (and maintaining your fitness training when injured) isn't about lamenting what we've lost, but rather about maximizing what we still have?
Enter the "100% of 80% principle" - a mindset shift that can transform your approach to training and life.
Understanding the 100% of 80% Principle
When faced with a setback that limits your usual capacity - let's say an injury that reduces your training ability to 80% - the natural reaction might be frustration or disappointment. However, the 100% of 80% principle encourages you to shift your focus. Instead of dwelling on the 20% you've lost, concentrate on giving 100% effort to the 80% you can still do.
My Personal Experience
After experiencing an injury last year, I found that changing my perspective allowed me to dial into other aspects I could still control, such as nutrition and sleep. This shift in focus not only helped me maintain my fitness levels even when injured but also improved areas I had previously neglected. By embracing the 100% of 80% principle, I turned what could have been a setback into an opportunity for growth.
Applying the Principle to Injury Recovery
For runners and other athletes, injuries are often an inevitable part of the journey. When sidelined by a sprain or strain, it's easy to fixate on what you can't do - your usual mileage or intensity might be out of reach. However, this period can become a powerful opportunity to shift your focus and put 100% effort into fitness training while injured, maximizing the capabilities you still have.
Here's how you can maximize your training while injured:
- Rehabilitation and Strength Training
Use this time to work on areas that might have been neglected. Any weaknesses you've been ignoring? Now's the time to address them. Incorporate resistance training into your program - it's just as critical as speedwork and long runs, if not more so during recovery.
- Nutrition and Recovery
Injury time is the perfect opportunity to dial in on optimizing your diet and recovery routines. A balanced diet and consistent 8-hour sleep schedule can make a world of difference in the healing process. These habits should be a cornerstone of your strategy to return to running stronger than ever.
- Mental Training
Not being able to train or race as usual can be frustrating, but it's an excellent time to work on your mental game. Visualize what it will feel like to be back running or competing in that target race. The mental resilience you build now will be a valuable asset when you return to full training.
- Cross-Training
Depending on your injury, you might be able to engage in low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, or using an elliptical machine. These can help maintain your cardiovascular fitness while giving your injury time to heal.
- Technique Analysis
Use this downtime to analyze your running form. Watch videos of yourself running, consult with a coach, or read up on proper techniques. Identifying and correcting form issues now can prevent future injuries and improve your performance when you return.
Overcoming the Emotional Hurdles
There's no denying that being injured can be emotionally challenging. You might feel frustrated, anxious, or even depressed about your inability to train as usual. However, channelling your energy into these alternative areas can help you maintain a positive outlook. Remember, by focusing on what you can do rather than what you can't, you're setting yourself up to return to full training not only healed but improved in ways you might not have considered.
Applying the Principle Beyond Athletics
This mindset isn't just for athletes. In our personal and professional lives, we often face situations where we can't give 100%. Here's how the 100% of 80% principle can help in everyday life:
Work-Life Balance: When work demands more time, maximize the quality of the time you do have for personal life.
Family Responsibilities: When family demands feel overwhelming, focus on being fully present in the moments you have, making them more meaningful.
Professional Development: If you can't dedicate as much time to learning new skills as you'd like, concentrate on mastering one skill at a time.
Conclusion: Embracing the Mindset Shift
Putting 100% into the 80% you can control transforms challenges into opportunities. Whether you're dealing with an injury, balancing work and life, or managing family demands, this approach can help you stay focused and productive. By shifting your mindset from what's lost to what remains, you'll be able to maximize your potential, even in less-than-ideal circumstances. The article ‘The Power of Positive Self-Talk’ might help you change your mindset and can be applied to all types of training.
Remember, setbacks are temporary, but the growth you achieve during these times can have lasting benefits. So, the next time you face a limitation, ask yourself: "How can I give 100% to the capacity I have right now?" The answer might just lead you to new heights of performance and personal growth.
Fun - Honesty - Simplicity - Smash Life - Mental Toughness - HARD WORK
One-Hour Workout: Revving Your Swim Engine
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