Mr. America Doug Brignole’s Training, Part 12

Here are some random thoughts from Doug on the “zen” of training—from our correspondence and discussions…

I REALLY like working out alone. I had forgotten how much better the workout can be without any distraction, and without having to explain little adjustments I make along the way, as I feel are appropriate for that moment. I totally go into a zone.

There’s a conversation going on in my head about whether that last set was close enough to failure, or if I should use a lighter weight, or whether the tempo of the set was ideal, etc. And, as a result, the workout almost becomes transcendental.

Could I explain to anyone what I’m thinking and the numerous micro adjustments I’m making along the way that all make the workout better? It would be nearly impossible. The adjustments are so subtle and spontaneous.

It’s probably much like a musician who’s in the middle of jamming. If you asked him to tell you what he did at various moments, he probably couldn’t tell you—too spontaneous. But he also can’t stop in the middle of the jam to explain it because it would disrupt the flow. He probably never plays that song the exact same way each time. It’s not a robotic thing he’s doing; he just gets lost in the experience, and the experience takes a mind of its own.

That’s kind of what happens when I train. Each workout is an exploration and an expression—no two are alike. 

Ironically, I suspect much of the success that some people have with their particular endeavor (music, sport, etc.) can be attributed to that subtle, spontaneous, transcendental expression that occurs without any deliberate thought. Ask Michael Jordan, “What do you do with your left leg when you’re flying to the hoop from the top of the key?” He couldn’t tell you. Yet, it probably contributes greatly to his ability to fly. 

Some things just happen in just the right way, in the moment, and cannot be taught nor replicated by someone else in any sort of intentional way. The singer, the dancer…may be performing something that has been scripted and practiced, but it’s mixed with a hefty dose of instinct and impulse that cannot quite be identified nor explained.

This is what happens to me in a much more dramatic way, when I’m left all alone, often intentionally without music, so I can hear the sound of my breath, and not have my drifting thoughts be invaded.

Thanks, Doug. I too prefer to train alone now. It’s almost a meditation with on-the-fly workout alterations. If I were training in a commercial gym, I’d probably have in earbuds with white noise to block out any distractions.

Note: For info on Doug’s Build & Burn program, go here: https://buildburn.smarttraining365.com/combopack

Till next time, train hard—and smart—for BIG results.