RossTraining.com

In the video below, you will see a man perform 50 consecutive pull-ups followed by 50 consecutive pushups.

I enjoyed this video for several reasons. First, it is obviously impressive to see anyone perform 50 pull-ups without swinging or kipping. The strength and endurance required to perform so many consecutive reps is no small feat. Most grown men would struggle to perform a fraction of the work.

Perhaps more importantly though, I viewed the video as a testament to consistency, hard work, and belief in oneself. It is one thing to set challenging goals, but entirely different to consistently work towards achieving them. A more common scenario is to set a goal, work towards it briefly, and then move on to something else when progress has slowed. Few people have the resiliency to see challenging goals out to fruition.

Many talk about what they would like to accomplish, yet few achieve what they set out to do. Achieving a challenging goal requires a consistent and diligent approach. You cannot become sidetracked by short term plateaus or setbacks. Such potholes are part of any challenging journey. A smooth ride will not bring you to the top of a treacherous mountain. Expect and prepare for arduous obstacles ahead.

Whether you are an athlete or trainer, you have likely spent time searching externally for new workouts, equipment, and routines. This outward search is commendable as I respect those who seek to improve. Unfortunately, many make the mistake of limiting their search to external sources. Often times, the greatest resources can be found within. A prime example is the relentless resolve to see challenging goals out to completion. Internal fortitude cannot be purchased online. It must come from within.

In the video above, we see a man who challenged himself to perform 50 pull-ups. He described this feat as his first and oldest physical goal (see here). Achieving that goal did not happen overnight or by accident. He did not find a routine online with step by step instructions. Many likely doubted that it was even possible. As a result, this man took it upon himself to not only perform the work, but to also figure out how to complete the goal.

When you perform something that has rarely been done, there isn’t a blueprint to follow. In many cases, all that you will find are people who doubt your ability to achieve the goal. You are left to fend for yourself. Fortunately, as evident above, there are people who do not place limitations on their ability. They don’t just set challenging goals. They are consistent and patient enough to see them through.

If you wish to accomplish something special, start working towards your goals now. Don’t wait for someday, as someday is not visible on the calendar. Make the most of today, and don’t become sidetracked if you struggle tomorrow. Life is often a battle of endurance. You cannot give up when the going gets tough. Embrace the struggle and use it to fuel the journey that lies ahead.

+++++

“Some of the world’s greatest feats were accomplished by people not smart enough to know they were impossible.” – Doug Larson