Why I’m stronger and more tired than ever
Does being stronger than ever conflict with being more tired than ever?
I’ll show they don’t conflict.
My six-day exercise cycle means that every other day I either do full-body weight-bearing exercises (Turkish get-ups, kettlebell swings, and farmers walks), three sets of six lifts (two leg, two push, two pull), or a cardiovascular exercise. Other days I recover, though on all days I still do my burpee-based calisthenics.
On recovery days, I’m tired and sometimes sore. On those days I think to myself, “I’m so sore, I should take it easy tomorrow,” especially when the next day is a lifting day. I think I should use lighter weights or do fewer repetitions. I also think of how I’m older than when I started.
Then, nearly every time, before lifting I get psyched not to let up, but to do a full workout, as challenging as the last time. The result: I nearly always do the full workout. I’ve done them enough that I don’t injure myself. I do them consistently enough that my muscles can handle it, even if they’re tired.
The result: From lifting the weights, I keep getting stronger. From almost never taking a break, I’m always recovering or sore. I’m as tired as ever while also being as strong as ever.
Read my weekly newsletter
On initiative, leadership, the environment, and burpees