Know your Limits

June 22, 2011

Practicing limits (or boundaries) in physical fitness and mental fitness keeps us safe.

We need to know how much weight we can lift before we make a goal to lift more. When we know our body and what it’s capable of, it’s easier to create a plan that will foster physical growth. If we come in to the fitness center and attempt to lift weights that are far too heavy for us without preparing our body first with smaller weights, good nutrition, ample amount of rest, and consistency, it will be impossible. We not only have a high risk of injury by doing this, but we also look like we’re trying too hard to get somewhere with no positive outcome. We can find our limits by testing various weights and techniques that push us toward our maximum capacity. Then move safely into productive, healthy changes.

We also need to know what our limits are when it comes to keeping our mental self fit and healthy. Knowing our boundaries keeps us within the parameters of practicing our knowledge and skills, safely. If we are trying to grow our confidence, for example, it may be too much to ask to perform a public speech in front of hundreds of people. However, small steps of speaking to small groups (like gradually increasing weight increments while lifting for strength) should be taken to feel stronger and more confident, little by little, to perform well.

Knowing your limits, and practicing within them helps you not only stay safe, but insures that when you’re ready to push your limits toward change, you’ll be ready with strength and confidence.