Nowadays we are very influenced the “grindset”, which is great; because it helps people get active and stay active. However, this can also lead to a mentality that promotes shutting off the internal rational voice when your body is signaling that something is wrong and needs to recover. A lot of people will refer to that voice as “the inner bitch”, but frankly I am of the belief that there are really two voices that live within. I like to look at it as most movies would: the angel vs devil on your shoulder. The inner bitch is the devil, a voice that makes excuses and rewards negative feedback loops. Then you have the angel on your shoulder, the one that is looking out for the health and safety of your meat vessel (your body). Don’t get me wrong, there is a time and a place to turn off the angel voice telling you to stop, but training is not typically that time. In your gut, you’ll know which voice is speaking to you; listen and act in kind. Don’t let the devil make excuses, but also don’t let him injure you in the name of “being hard”. In case it’s unclear, I am not putting down the grindset, and certainly not diminishing the notion of “being hard” (pause). I love David Goggins, he is one of my biggest inspirations in the world of fitness and mental fortitude, but he is also the best example of what not listening to the rational voice does to your body. Train hard, but train smart.

I had no expectations due to my knee injury and lack of usual training, but it went very well. Seem to keep hitting new PRs no matter my knee issue and I'm LIVING FOR IT! Unfortunately will take a break from running, but definitely keeping up my streak of running with the ArmyRun or the NavyBikeRide next year and going forward! All together, great experience and appreciate the Army's service and support. ⚔️

Fun times