Recently, in fact from the middle of January to the latter part of February I ran a swing challenge. That is having a set time frame in which to complete a certain number of swings. In this case it was 10,000 in 5 weeks.
When running or participating in any challenge a number of questions come up. Probably the two biggest ones are ‘Why do it?’ and ‘What is there to learn from it?’
Both are great questions and both deserve a great answer.
Why did I participate in the challenge?
For me it was one way of giving me direction and structure in my training. I am usually planning everyone else’s programs but when it comes to me I tend to not be as structured.
I also wanted to try myself, see what I could do. I deliberately picked a bigger weight, one that would challenge my grip and my commitment. Because when the going gets tough physically, the mind has to step up and help you get through it. So a challenge helps forge your body and mind into a stronger version of yourself.
Commitment is tested when road blocks are thrown at you, it takes creativity to still stand by the word you gave others and more importantly yourself to continue regardless.
Another important point for me was to actually run the challenge. That took on another level of commitment because suddenly it wasn’t any more about myself but about everyone else participating. Thinking on my feet and offering ways to get around stumbling blocks or turning them into stepping stones became very important to help others overcome any doubts, setbacks or limitations they felt. One participant overcame a broken finger and completed the challenge. Another needed to work around the demands of a young child and yet another one discovered limitations they didn’t think were as big as they ended up being.
What did I learn from it?
I found that I developed a new level of strength in my grip and through my body. Since I trained hard I liked the result, but the greater joy was in the process, the journey. Each swing I preformed was executed with precision and I really worked on improving my already good technique. It was refreshing to keep learning.
Another thing I learned from the swing challenge was that I was getting stronger mentally. There has been times when even starting was difficult, let alone keeping going. Sometimes I just didn’t feel like it!!! The weather has something to do with that, it had been mostly warm and humid. My hands felt swollen, it was hard to get my rings off and the humidity was hard on the skin. But then, It is hard to use the weather as an excuse and expect to stand up
The sense of achievement was great once all was done. I felt strong and fit and felt I could take on anything.
But this carried over into all other aspects of my life as well. Decision making came easier and I found myself so much more engaged in general.
Having accountability to the group and leading from the front certainly kept me on my toes, but I like who I have become as a result of this challenge.
Would I recommend anyone participating in a challenge?
Absolutely. Pick the right one for you and go for it. Enjoy the ride and allow all the benefits to spillover over into all aspects of your life.