Training With The End In Mind

During my master’s program at Colgate University, they always taught us to “plan with the end in mind.” 

I thought to myself…duh!  I paid something like 35 k a year for that bit of common sense?!?! (Thank you football tuition assistance!)

Of course, it took years for that knowledge to actually sink in…(Damn this thick head!)

Here’s what I am talking about when it comes to strength training and exercise:  What’s your end goal? 

Of course everyone should set milestones – ie I want to bench 405, I want to increase my vertical, I want to squat small houses….

That’s great and should be done, but….

What does that do for you? 

Think big picture.  I’ll mention two examples.

What will increasing your vertical get you?  Perhaps its a starting spot on the basketball team, recognition as a successful athlete, and other athletic successes.  Great that’s the end, now let’s plan backwards!

What else does it take to earn a starting spot, athletic successes, and recognition?  Agility, speed, a good attitude, and ball handing skills.   So plan your training backwards to accomplish those goals!

Other than a few pickup games, my basketball days are long behind me, but I still love to train like an animal!  Why?  well I started with my end goals and planned backwards.

I want to be a strong figure for my family, physically fit and healthy.  I want to see my first child (only about 4 months away now!) eat their veggies and take care of themselves from the get go.

I also never want to be defeated by a jar of pickles top and have to resort to the “uhh, my hands are slippery” excuse.   Those things are all part of my end goals!

Forget this and that damn hot water trick!

To accomplish those goals, I need to train the way I enjoy, perform lifts and movement for real world strength, and include mobility and recovery movements for longevity. 

I hope this brainstorm helps you out!

- Joe Hashey, CSCS -

PS.  Cool training announcement coming up next week!  Don’t forget to subscribe to the newsletter below to get first notification (don’t worry, its free!)

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