Getting Through the (Sweaty) Hurdles
How to be mentally tough during the workouts that don't feel so hot.
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Presented by LMNT:
Today I had a conversation with Aisha Praught-Leer about how to get through the tough workouts, which will be live next week in the Hurdle feed. I think it’s easy to assume that someone who is a professional athlete may not struggle from time to time as much as us recreational runners. But on the contrary, Aisha admitted that occassional sub-par efforts come hand-in-hand with a training schedule that gives her a day off every 90-ish (seriously).
The good news? Aisha has done tons of mental training to successfully navigate this ugh feeling and get her head back in the game — and she’s sharing her best tricks in an episode next week. Even better news? I’m dropping two of them for this week’s newsletter:
1. Learn to separate fact from feeling: We all have thoughts. A lot of thoughts, actually! Here’s the thing, though. That’s all they are. Of course we’re going to have less-than-stellar ones every now and again. But, if you can learn to quiet the mind and separate those feelings from what’s really happening, you have a fighting chance to beat the I-don’t-think-I-can-do-this situations. Of course, if something truly feels off — there is nothing wrong with having some grace with yourself and bowing out of an effort. One missed workout isn’t going to wreck your progress.
2. Mix up your training and paces: Sometimes when we’re in our own heads, a small shift can make all the difference. Feeling meh? Try mixing up the type of training you’re doing, whether that means integrating different types of workouts into your routine (yoga, interval training, cross training) or even just speed up for short bursts on a run that feels subpar. Sometimes that eensy change can help you snap out of a funk and be the thing you need to say to yourself “hey, I’ve got this.”
PROMPT: What’s one mantra you can tell yourself when the workout feels hard? My go-to is “you didn’t come this far to only come this far.”
Thanks to LMNT — an electrolyte drink mix with everything you need and nothing you don't — for supporting Hurdle.
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Head to DrinkLMNT.com/Hurdle to get a FREE LMNT sample pack, including two citrus, two raspberry, two orange, and two raw unflavored. You only pay $5 for shipping! To claim this deal you must go to DrinkLMNT.com/Hurdle — no code necessary.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
LISTEN: ON Purpose with Jay Shetty: “Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Perry ON: Healing From Childhood Trauma And Becoming Self Aware, Confident Adults”
Right off the bat, Jay tells Oprah “You made me believe that consciousness and purpose could reach everyone on the planet,” and Man, ain’t that the truth. Powerhouses teaming up on this episode, with so many golden nuggets that will make you think about the way you carry yourself in the day-to-day.
WATCH: Money: Explained on Netflix
Whether you’re looking for an education espresso shot or full on crash course, this limited series offers comprehensive and engaging content surrounding the various topics of money. From credit cards to casinos, scammers to student loans, the series delves into the how and why behind all things currency.
LISTEN: Sandra Oh on Asian Enough
I really enjoyed listening to Sandra’s conversation about exploring identity in her film and TV roles and speaking out against anti-Asian hate. Listening to her experiences — from growing up with Korean immigrant parents in Canada and aspiring to become an actress to ultimately becoming an Asian storyteller on shows such as Grey’s Anatomy and Killing Eve — was super interesting and inspiring.
WATCH: The Me You Can’t See on Apple TV+
This. Definitely catch the new docuseries co-created by Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry that explores mental health and emotional well-being with stories from people around the world. I caught the first episode yesterday, and was in tears on my couch hearing Harry talk about his personal battles and the trauma that surrounded losing his mother.
BUY: A Print from artist John Donohue
This former New Yorker editor and cartoonist draws facades of popular restaurants in New York and beyond. He’s currently donating 50 percent of all proceeds to support restaurant workers and owners impact ed by the pandemic via the Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation.
Thanks to this week’s Hurdle sponsors LMNT, Athletic Greens, and BaronFig! For a complete list of the show’s sponsors and some really great deals, check out the sponsors page, here.
HURDLE SESSIONS: Check out these past picks!
How to Start (and Stay!) Running
How to Take Your Running to the Next Level
Intro to Freelance Writing
Intro to Podcasting
How to Turn Your Side Hustle Into Your Main Gig
Finding Your Power Alone
How to Build a Social Media Presence
Media Strategy for Fitness Professionals
AND * 30-Minute One-On-One Consulting Call *
LEAVE ME A VOICE MESSAGE! Whether you just want to say hi or have a question you want to ask, I’d love to hear from you! Bonus: Your listener question could be answered in an upcoming episode of the show! No topics are off limits.
I want it more than I fear it.