I watched part of a documentary last night about sports performance. One of their conclusions is that it is challenging if not impossible to break a world record without being in an actual competition – the nerves, the cheering crowds, the athlete next to you… Now I know that it’s unlikely that you are trying to break any athletic records, but if you’re reading this, I will bet you are interested in improving your current fitness level and being the best version of yourself.
The past few years have changed our world in countless ways. Many of us now have fitness equipment at home, including me. While it certainly helps in a pinch some days, nothing beats physically going into the gym. Why then do only 16.67% of Canadians have gym memberships?
With respect to intensity, it’s too easy to slack off or make excuses during home workouts and pushing yourself to your limits is hard to do. At Blended, while pushing yourself can still feel like a grind, the energy of the other members – that athlete beside you – and the watchful eye of the coach can carry you so much further than if you were alone. You tap into that extra gear by completing those extra reps or picking up that slightly heavier dumbbell. And that is where the fitness magic and big gains happen. In fact studies show that runners report feeling greater motivation when a rival is present, and results in better running times – one study found runners produced a 25-second advantage over a 5km race, compared to races in which a rival was not present.
With respect to technique, at Blended, you are surrounded by qualified coaches whose job is to help you move better, and even the most seasoned athletes have room for technical improvements. Whether it’s body alignment, helping discover your weak spots, or learning how to brace and use your breath, the highly trained coaches at Blended can help you. Injury is often the result of training or technique errors, so doing movements too quickly or repeating poor movement patterns over time. You can’t fix what you aren’t aware of, and coach feedback is vital to getting better.
I’m almost at a loss for words on this one concerning friendship and community. Blended staff and members care about each other, support one another, and respect one another. Despite the sounds of wildly intense fitness at times – dropping barbells, grunts and groans, clanging and banging, loud music – it’s one of the warmest and friendliest spaces I know. You don’t find those unique and special relationships often, and you certainly won’t find them when you’re working out by yourself at home.
Fitness memberships are expensive, yes, but I don’t bat an eye to pay my monthly fee at Blended. For all that I get in return, it’s a thousand times worth it.
-Max
