Modifications and why they are a game changer!
Yesterday I had a member discuss with me after class her back pain and weakness in her core. I had noticed she was trying to do all the most challenging options of every exercise during our workouts. I suggested taking a step back and doing the most basic, modified version of every exercise first. Then, if/when she feels she needs more of a challenge, to move up to the next level of the exercise. Today, she listened! She came in and did ALL of the modified versions of EVERY exercise. I was SO PROUD of her! Why you ask? Because that takes humbling ourselves and choosing to work smarter, not just harder to get the results we want!
See, often times we are caught up in the challenge or competition and want to do the hardest of every exercise regardless if we are actually ready! I get it. But this leads to incorrect form, incorrect muscle recruitment, compensation and possible injury.
My mentor, Cori, often says, “You need to REGRESS to PROGRESS.” Exactly! By regressing when needed, we actually WORK the muscles we NEED to work and get STRONGER! So, then when we do the most challenging type of exercise, we are actually doing it correctly, recruiting the correct muscles for the job and preventing injury.
The most challenging exercises have to be EARNED! Does it take time? Yes! Do we need to humble ourselves in the process? Most likely! But then when the time comes when you do the full burpee or full push-up chest to deck or plank on your toes without needing your butt in the air, YOU’VE EARNED IT!! And that feels AMAZING!!
Everyone has their own areas of strength and weakness. Where you are strong, GO FOR IT! But, where you are weak, be smart and REGRESS TO PROGRESS!! Trust me, it makes your coach HAPPY because real progress is being made!
~ Nikki
PS. If you aren’t a part of NUMA and are interested in getting started with us in a fun, challenging and safe place, message us!
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