Operation Muffin Top

As was previously posted here in the OMT blog, this past Tuesday, the TODAY show made a visit to Carozza Fitness to film a segment on the importance of strongman training for women.  It was an unforgettable morning for me, my staff and several of our female clients, who gave it all to demonstrate why our functional approach to fitness trumps more conventional workouts.

Now, when you see the piece (to be aired at a later, to-be-determined date), you will see what I mean when I say that these women gave it their all.  To be clear, this group of women typically always does, but the morning of the taping was different.  They all kicked it up a notch, digging deep for that extra push, moving through the circuits with energy and speed.  I joked that I should have cameras in class more often, because as their ramped up workout proved, hard work takes on a whole new meaning when someone else is within view.

Think about it.  Most of you have probably tried several approaches to working out.  You may have a gym membership, equipment in your own home or have taken a fitness class or two.  How hard would you say you work when you’re confined in your basement watching some TV while doing bicep curls?  I’d bet it doesn’t compare to the sweat you produce when you’re in class with others or working in front of a trainer at the gym.

Because when other people are present, our inner drive to impress and please kicks into gear.  The result?  A surge of adrenaline that fires us through our every move.  We get stronger, faster and may even accomplish things we were previously unable to do.  After all, giving up becomes less of an option when someone else’s eyes are on you.

Of course, I wish that we all had the ability to push ourselves to that extent even when alone.  But the truth is it doesn’t happen, because we typically don’t think twice about letting ourselves down (it’s all too easy for us to give ourselves a pass).  So while cameras in your living room may not be an option, taking your workout to a bigger stage with a trainer or group format is.  Try it and watch what happens.  Bet you’ll redefine what it means to work hard.