Nemesis vs. Love-Hate

Today we focused on strengthening my quadriceps and pectoral muscles.

To continue strengthening my quads, Lei had me use the leg extension machine for the first time. Unlike the “box,” which is my nemesis, the leg extension machine is more of the love-hate variety. Since I’ve been consistent with kettlebell goblet squats (upgraded to 10 lbs. today!) and squats without weights, I could feel and see my sprouting quads! It was a proud moment for me.

The box is my nemesis because I still need assistance to do the steps while burning my quads. The leg extension machine also burns my quads; however, this machine I can use without assistance.

My nemesis, a.k.a. “the box"

My love-hate, a.k.a. the leg extension machine

Likewise, when I was doing a few bicep curls, I upgraded to 10 lb. dumbbells. All this after only two weeks, hitting the gym four times a week for an hour (with Lei coaching me through two of them).

We wrapped up today's session with the mid cable chest fly to work those pecs. I'm "flying" at 7.5 lbs. each arm right now.

It’s amazing how we can transform ourselves once we get out of our own way. I was my own worst enemy, creating a narrative about gyms that supported my pre-conceived negative views. What finally forced me to do something different was being unhappy with the body reflected in the mirror. That wasn’t the body I had four years ago, and it certainly wasn’t the body with which I could continue.

Looking and feeling my best takes work. I always thought the only way to work up a good sweat was running. This pre-conceived idea was shattered as I find myself sweating and working harder than I ever have in building and strengthening these muscles.

Why am I doing this? Because this body needs to sustain me for the next half of my life, and I want to do it with strength and grace.

At my gym, I see people of all ages pushing themselves (safely, of course). On this intentional fitness journey, I’m realizing, it's more a mental game than I ever imagined.

What preconceived ideas do you carry that hold you back from being your best self? What will it take to overcome them?