Maximise Fitness Training When Injured
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
ENGINE
Building those engines with a partner, which means shorter higher intensity intervals across machines and body weight exercises
GYMNASTICS
This week, we will focus on TTB progressions, followed by gymnastics-focused strength work.
HYROX
40 mins of Hyrox interval work. The faster you go, the more rest you can earn.
MOBILITY
Stability/activation has been showing up as a big weakness in mobility classes, so this session's primary focus will be on these on both the upper & lower body.
PURE STRENGTH
This week in pure strength, we kick off a new training block, transitioning from high-volume speed reps to heavier weights and less volume. On Monday, we are hitting a paused bench press, followed by some upper-body bodybuilding. On Wednesday, we start a progression on box-front squats with a hearty dose of single-leg work.
WEIGHTLIFTING
This week, we will spend time overhead in weightlifting. Moving onto a classic lifting complex, ‘clean + front squat + split jerk’. Finishing off with some clean pulls
Monday Ride
A skills and fitness based ride at the BikeDXB track in Dubai. Some simply structured intervals to enhance cycling ability.
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.
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Entrance fee: https://isddubai.com/athletics-venuehire/
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oomJAa31vKy3hQNG6
Wednesday - Coffee Spin
With Muscat 70.3 on the weekend, today is an easy spin out with a coffee at the end.
Start time: 05:59 am
Location : BOTS - https://goo.gl/maps/6AwtJXW8nA45Cy9H8
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. This run is currently gearing run fitness towards the incoming half marathons. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday Ride
An endurance ride with a mixed group of road cyclists and triathletes. There is an option to do 85 or 105km. Speak to coach Rob Foster if attending, rf@innerfight.com
Start time: 05:59 am
Location: BOTS - https://goo.gl/maps/6AwtJXW8nA45Cy9H8
Sunday - Burj to Burj
https://www.burj2burj.com/about
Monday
Time: 5:59am and 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Mobility and Tempo
AM Session:
This morning we will focus on mobility to help you recover from your weekend of racing, running, or general training load.
PM Session:
This evening we will drop the duration for our tempo blocks, but increase the rep scheme. So there will be 7x reps of 4 mins Tempo, each with a 1 min recovery.
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oomJAa31vKy3hQNG6
Entrance fee: https://isddubai.com/athletics-venuehire/
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. The session today will be 2 x 800m @ 10k pace, 60 seconds rest
2 x 400 @ 5k pace, 40 seconds rest
2 x 200 @ 3k pace - 20 seconds rest
1 x 1km @ best effort
3mins rest before round 2.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
If you didn't run track, today we have some speed work for you. Today we will run 800s at a 8/10 effort, each with a 2 mins rest.
Friday
Brief time: 5:54am
Start Time: 5:59am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run
This week we will return to the canal bridge for some hill repeats. An excellent session to get some strength in the legs, espeically if you are running Two Oceans.
Sunday
Time: 05:59am
Session: Burj to Burj
Today is the B2B Half Marathon. Warm up location, time, and pin will be shared in WhatsApp.
This week, we kick start the week with a clean complex and then the Macho Mile. Tuesday is about a gymnastics EMOM, then into 2 short fast couplets. We are working on our overhead pressing strength and getting upside down on Wednesday, and then we have a tough conditioning piece. We continue progressing with the overhead squats and a very leggy Thursday workout. Friday therapy, we have more gymnastics skills, followed by a partner workout to round out your week.
Monday:
Strength:
Get ready to lift as we start with a Clean Complex, which consists of 1 Hang Power Clean, 1 Low Hang Power Clean and 1 Power Clean, intending to build the weight over 8 sets!
Every 90 sec x 8 Sets
1 hang power clean
1 low hang power clean
1 power clean
Conditioning:
The Macho Mile: this workout is epic and has been tested by the coaching team! We want a heavy barbell and some consistent efforts on the run for this workout! Get excited, folks. It is going to be a belter!
"Macho" Mile
4 rounds For Time:
Park Run
3 rounds of Macho Man
(3 power clean + 3 front squat + 3 shoulder to overhead (80/60)
Tuesday:
Strength:
This strength piece is all about gymnastics and positioning. Building some Volume in the Toes to Bar with 15-second efforts. Positional work to develop the core shoulders and arms with some 30-second Front Leaning Rest Holds. Chin over bar holds an isometric exercise to work on activation of the muscle groups responsible for the movement. We then hit the floor and work on our Arch Holds!
EMOM 16
A) 15-sec Toes to Bar
B) 30-sec F
C) 10-15 sec chin over bar hold into 10-15 sec dead hang
d) 30-sec Arch Hold
Conditioning:
For the workout, we have 4-minute AMRAPs where we look for high outputs on the machines and can then maintain the gymnastics movements under fatigue. For each AMRAP, we are targeting 3+ Rounds.
2 Rounds:
4 min amrap
12/9 Cal ass bike
9 TTB
rest 2 mins
4 min amrap
12/9 Cal ski
9 burpees to target
rest 2 mins
Wednesday:
Strength:
There is a big emphasis here on unilateral pushing strength, working single arm with a Dumbell Push Press before working upside down in a Piked Handstand Pushup, where we take the reps up and look for volume!
Every 90 sec x 8 alt between
A: 3/3 DB push press *building in weight
B: 8-15 Piked Handstand Push Ups
Conditioning:
This one is all about working hard to earn some rest! The shoulders will be fatigued, and that's intentional to develop resilience in this area. The aim here is to complete the work with 2 minutes to 90 seconds of rest each round. Can you keep it consistent?
Every 4 mins alternate between x 3 rounds
A: 5 wall walks
50 Double Unders
20 American KB swing (20/12)
B: 15-hand-release push-ups
50 Double Unders
20 Hang KB snatch
rest 2 mins
Thursday:
Strength:
We dial in some positioning with Band Resisted Overhead Squats before getting onto the barbell, where we look to progress into some loaded Tempo Overhead Squats. We will be looking for strict Tempo here which will help to develop good movement patterns for the Overhead Squat.
EMOM 6
5 band resisted OHS (Tempo 32x1)
Every 2 mins x 6
3 OHS (Tempo 21x1)
Conditioning:
The race is on, but will your legs be able to hold on? The time for this workout will be 15 minutes. The key will be to stay consistent on the lunges and work through an ascending ladder or High Box Jumps!
For Time
6 Alt Front Dumbell Rev Lunges (2 x 50/35)
2-4-6-8-10-12-14-16-18-20 Reps Box Jumps (30/24 in)
Friday:
Strength:
The focus will be volume in the Chest to Bar movement. We will be working at a scale where we can execute the movement for 15 seconds consistently with good movement patterns. We will be super setting this with some leg endurance with 60-sec wall sits!
Conditioning:
As usual, we end the week with a Bang! A partner workout includes the row, thrusters, and rope climbing. In what order, what distance, and what reps must you show up to find out! Therapy!!!
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 skills and fitness based ride at the BikeDXB track in Dubai. Some simply structured intervals to enhance cycling ability.
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.
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Entrance fee: https://isddubai.com/athletics-venuehire/
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oomJAa31vKy3hQNG6
Wednesday - Coffee Spin
With Muscat 70.3 on the weekend, today is an easy spin out with a coffee at the end.
Start time: 05:59 am
Location : BOTS - https://goo.gl/maps/6AwtJXW8nA45Cy9H8
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. This run is currently gearing run fitness towards the incoming half marathons. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday Ride
An endurance ride with a mixed group of road cyclists and triathletes. There is an option to do 85 or 105km. Speak to coach Rob Foster if attending, rf@innerfight.com
Start time: 05:59 am
Location: BOTS - https://goo.gl/maps/6AwtJXW8nA45Cy9H8
Sunday - Burj to Burj
https://www.burj2burj.com/about
Monday
Time: 5:59am and 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Mobility and Tempo
AM Session:
This morning we will focus on mobility to help you recover from your weekend of racing, running, or general training load.
PM Session:
This evening we will drop the duration for our tempo blocks, but increase the rep scheme. So there will be 7x reps of 4 mins Tempo, each with a 1 min recovery.
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oomJAa31vKy3hQNG6
Entrance fee: https://isddubai.com/athletics-venuehire/
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. The session today will be 2 x 800m @ 10k pace, 60 seconds rest
2 x 400 @ 5k pace, 40 seconds rest
2 x 200 @ 3k pace - 20 seconds rest
1 x 1km @ best effort
3mins rest before round 2.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
If you didn't run track, today we have some speed work for you. Today we will run 800s at a 8/10 effort, each with a 2 mins rest.
Friday
Brief time: 5:54am
Start Time: 5:59am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run
This week we will return to the canal bridge for some hill repeats. An excellent session to get some strength in the legs, espeically if you are running Two Oceans.
Sunday
Time: 05:59am
Session: Burj to Burj
Today is the B2B Half Marathon. Warm up location, time, and pin will be shared in WhatsApp.
This week, we kick start the week with a clean complex and then the Macho Mile. Tuesday is about a gymnastics EMOM, then into 2 short fast couplets. We are working on our overhead pressing strength and getting upside down on Wednesday, and then we have a tough conditioning piece. We continue progressing with the overhead squats and a very leggy Thursday workout. Friday therapy, we have more gymnastics skills, followed by a partner workout to round out your week.
Monday:
Strength:
Get ready to lift as we start with a Clean Complex, which consists of 1 Hang Power Clean, 1 Low Hang Power Clean and 1 Power Clean, intending to build the weight over 8 sets!
Every 90 sec x 8 Sets
1 hang power clean
1 low hang power clean
1 power clean
Conditioning:
The Macho Mile: this workout is epic and has been tested by the coaching team! We want a heavy barbell and some consistent efforts on the run for this workout! Get excited, folks. It is going to be a belter!
"Macho" Mile
4 rounds For Time:
Park Run
3 rounds of Macho Man
(3 power clean + 3 front squat + 3 shoulder to overhead (80/60)
Tuesday:
Strength:
This strength piece is all about gymnastics and positioning. Building some Volume in the Toes to Bar with 15-second efforts. Positional work to develop the core shoulders and arms with some 30-second Front Leaning Rest Holds. Chin over bar holds an isometric exercise to work on activation of the muscle groups responsible for the movement. We then hit the floor and work on our Arch Holds!
EMOM 16
A) 15-sec Toes to Bar
B) 30-sec F
C) 10-15 sec chin over bar hold into 10-15 sec dead hang
d) 30-sec Arch Hold
Conditioning:
For the workout, we have 4-minute AMRAPs where we look for high outputs on the machines and can then maintain the gymnastics movements under fatigue. For each AMRAP, we are targeting 3+ Rounds.
2 Rounds:
4 min amrap
12/9 Cal ass bike
9 TTB
rest 2 mins
4 min amrap
12/9 Cal ski
9 burpees to target
rest 2 mins
Wednesday:
Strength:
There is a big emphasis here on unilateral pushing strength, working single arm with a Dumbell Push Press before working upside down in a Piked Handstand Pushup, where we take the reps up and look for volume!
Every 90 sec x 8 alt between
A: 3/3 DB push press *building in weight
B: 8-15 Piked Handstand Push Ups
Conditioning:
This one is all about working hard to earn some rest! The shoulders will be fatigued, and that's intentional to develop resilience in this area. The aim here is to complete the work with 2 minutes to 90 seconds of rest each round. Can you keep it consistent?
Every 4 mins alternate between x 3 rounds
A: 5 wall walks
50 Double Unders
20 American KB swing (20/12)
B: 15-hand-release push-ups
50 Double Unders
20 Hang KB snatch
rest 2 mins
Thursday:
Strength:
We dial in some positioning with Band Resisted Overhead Squats before getting onto the barbell, where we look to progress into some loaded Tempo Overhead Squats. We will be looking for strict Tempo here which will help to develop good movement patterns for the Overhead Squat.
EMOM 6
5 band resisted OHS (Tempo 32x1)
Every 2 mins x 6
3 OHS (Tempo 21x1)
Conditioning:
The race is on, but will your legs be able to hold on? The time for this workout will be 15 minutes. The key will be to stay consistent on the lunges and work through an ascending ladder or High Box Jumps!
For Time
6 Alt Front Dumbell Rev Lunges (2 x 50/35)
2-4-6-8-10-12-14-16-18-20 Reps Box Jumps (30/24 in)
Friday:
Strength:
The focus will be volume in the Chest to Bar movement. We will be working at a scale where we can execute the movement for 15 seconds consistently with good movement patterns. We will be super setting this with some leg endurance with 60-sec wall sits!
Conditioning:
As usual, we end the week with a Bang! A partner workout includes the row, thrusters, and rope climbing. In what order, what distance, and what reps must you show up to find out! Therapy!!!
ENGINE
Building those engines with a partner, which means shorter higher intensity intervals across machines and body weight exercises
GYMNASTICS
This week, we will focus on TTB progressions, followed by gymnastics-focused strength work.
HYROX
40 mins of Hyrox interval work. The faster you go, the more rest you can earn.
MOBILITY
Stability/activation has been showing up as a big weakness in mobility classes, so this session's primary focus will be on these on both the upper & lower body.
PURE STRENGTH
This week in pure strength, we kick off a new training block, transitioning from high-volume speed reps to heavier weights and less volume. On Monday, we are hitting a paused bench press, followed by some upper-body bodybuilding. On Wednesday, we start a progression on box-front squats with a hearty dose of single-leg work.
WEIGHTLIFTING
This week, we will spend time overhead in weightlifting. Moving onto a classic lifting complex, ‘clean + front squat + split jerk’. Finishing off with some clean pulls
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: 5:59am and 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Mobility and Tempo
AM Session:
This morning we will focus on mobility to help you recover from your weekend of racing, running, or general training load.
PM Session:
This evening we will drop the duration for our tempo blocks, but increase the rep scheme. So there will be 7x reps of 4 mins Tempo, each with a 1 min recovery.
Tuesday
Time: 5:59am
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oomJAa31vKy3hQNG6
Entrance fee: https://isddubai.com/athletics-venuehire/
Session: Track Tuesday
This is your chance to run fast with the wider IFE community and coaches. The session today will be 2 x 800m @ 10k pace, 60 seconds rest
2 x 400 @ 5k pace, 40 seconds rest
2 x 200 @ 3k pace - 20 seconds rest
1 x 1km @ best effort
3mins rest before round 2.
Wednesday
Time: 5:59am & 5:59pm
Location: InnerFight
Session: LRC Intervals
If you didn't run track, today we have some speed work for you. Today we will run 800s at a 8/10 effort, each with a 2 mins rest.
Friday
Brief time: 5:54am
Start Time: 5:59am
Location: Common Grounds
Session: The Coffee Run
This week we will return to the canal bridge for some hill repeats. An excellent session to get some strength in the legs, espeically if you are running Two Oceans.
Sunday
Time: 05:59am
Session: Burj to Burj
Today is the B2B Half Marathon. Warm up location, time, and pin will be shared in WhatsApp.
This week, we kick start the week with a clean complex and then the Macho Mile. Tuesday is about a gymnastics EMOM, then into 2 short fast couplets. We are working on our overhead pressing strength and getting upside down on Wednesday, and then we have a tough conditioning piece. We continue progressing with the overhead squats and a very leggy Thursday workout. Friday therapy, we have more gymnastics skills, followed by a partner workout to round out your week.
Monday:
Strength:
Get ready to lift as we start with a Clean Complex, which consists of 1 Hang Power Clean, 1 Low Hang Power Clean and 1 Power Clean, intending to build the weight over 8 sets!
Every 90 sec x 8 Sets
1 hang power clean
1 low hang power clean
1 power clean
Conditioning:
The Macho Mile: this workout is epic and has been tested by the coaching team! We want a heavy barbell and some consistent efforts on the run for this workout! Get excited, folks. It is going to be a belter!
"Macho" Mile
4 rounds For Time:
Park Run
3 rounds of Macho Man
(3 power clean + 3 front squat + 3 shoulder to overhead (80/60)
Tuesday:
Strength:
This strength piece is all about gymnastics and positioning. Building some Volume in the Toes to Bar with 15-second efforts. Positional work to develop the core shoulders and arms with some 30-second Front Leaning Rest Holds. Chin over bar holds an isometric exercise to work on activation of the muscle groups responsible for the movement. We then hit the floor and work on our Arch Holds!
EMOM 16
A) 15-sec Toes to Bar
B) 30-sec F
C) 10-15 sec chin over bar hold into 10-15 sec dead hang
d) 30-sec Arch Hold
Conditioning:
For the workout, we have 4-minute AMRAPs where we look for high outputs on the machines and can then maintain the gymnastics movements under fatigue. For each AMRAP, we are targeting 3+ Rounds.
2 Rounds:
4 min amrap
12/9 Cal ass bike
9 TTB
rest 2 mins
4 min amrap
12/9 Cal ski
9 burpees to target
rest 2 mins
Wednesday:
Strength:
There is a big emphasis here on unilateral pushing strength, working single arm with a Dumbell Push Press before working upside down in a Piked Handstand Pushup, where we take the reps up and look for volume!
Every 90 sec x 8 alt between
A: 3/3 DB push press *building in weight
B: 8-15 Piked Handstand Push Ups
Conditioning:
This one is all about working hard to earn some rest! The shoulders will be fatigued, and that's intentional to develop resilience in this area. The aim here is to complete the work with 2 minutes to 90 seconds of rest each round. Can you keep it consistent?
Every 4 mins alternate between x 3 rounds
A: 5 wall walks
50 Double Unders
20 American KB swing (20/12)
B: 15-hand-release push-ups
50 Double Unders
20 Hang KB snatch
rest 2 mins
Thursday:
Strength:
We dial in some positioning with Band Resisted Overhead Squats before getting onto the barbell, where we look to progress into some loaded Tempo Overhead Squats. We will be looking for strict Tempo here which will help to develop good movement patterns for the Overhead Squat.
EMOM 6
5 band resisted OHS (Tempo 32x1)
Every 2 mins x 6
3 OHS (Tempo 21x1)
Conditioning:
The race is on, but will your legs be able to hold on? The time for this workout will be 15 minutes. The key will be to stay consistent on the lunges and work through an ascending ladder or High Box Jumps!
For Time
6 Alt Front Dumbell Rev Lunges (2 x 50/35)
2-4-6-8-10-12-14-16-18-20 Reps Box Jumps (30/24 in)
Friday:
Strength:
The focus will be volume in the Chest to Bar movement. We will be working at a scale where we can execute the movement for 15 seconds consistently with good movement patterns. We will be super setting this with some leg endurance with 60-sec wall sits!
Conditioning:
As usual, we end the week with a Bang! A partner workout includes the row, thrusters, and rope climbing. In what order, what distance, and what reps must you show up to find out! Therapy!!!
ENGINE
Building those engines with a partner, which means shorter higher intensity intervals across machines and body weight exercises
GYMNASTICS
This week, we will focus on TTB progressions, followed by gymnastics-focused strength work.
HYROX
40 mins of Hyrox interval work. The faster you go, the more rest you can earn.
MOBILITY
Stability/activation has been showing up as a big weakness in mobility classes, so this session's primary focus will be on these on both the upper & lower body.
PURE STRENGTH
This week in pure strength, we kick off a new training block, transitioning from high-volume speed reps to heavier weights and less volume. On Monday, we are hitting a paused bench press, followed by some upper-body bodybuilding. On Wednesday, we start a progression on box-front squats with a hearty dose of single-leg work.
WEIGHTLIFTING
This week, we will spend time overhead in weightlifting. Moving onto a classic lifting complex, ‘clean + front squat + split jerk’. Finishing off with some clean pulls
Monday Ride
A skills and fitness based ride at the BikeDXB track in Dubai. Some simply structured intervals to enhance cycling ability.
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.
Start time: 05:59 am
Session Length: 1.5 hour
Entrance fee: https://isddubai.com/athletics-venuehire/
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oomJAa31vKy3hQNG6
Wednesday - Coffee Spin
With Muscat 70.3 on the weekend, today is an easy spin out with a coffee at the end.
Start time: 05:59 am
Location : BOTS - https://goo.gl/maps/6AwtJXW8nA45Cy9H8
Friday - Coffee Run
Our weekly tempo run. This run is currently gearing run fitness towards the incoming half marathons. Sessions are built on an RPE scale and accessible to all levels of runner.
Brief time: 05:54 am
Start time: 05:59 am
Start Location: Common Grounds
Saturday Ride
An endurance ride with a mixed group of road cyclists and triathletes. There is an option to do 85 or 105km. Speak to coach Rob Foster if attending, rf@innerfight.com
Start time: 05:59 am
Location: BOTS - https://goo.gl/maps/6AwtJXW8nA45Cy9H8
Sunday - Burj to Burj
https://www.burj2burj.com/about
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