My first thought waking up before the sun rises is always how is my leg feeling today and how will I attack the day. After I assess the condition of my leg that day, usually swollen, numb and tingly or swollen from lack of blood circulation, I get acclimated to the day that I have ahead.
I am out of the house by 5:20 a.m. and off to Beast Athletics to begin setting up for classes. I think about the workouts and go over movements mentally and physically. Then, I think of any questions or adversity my clients may encounter with the exercises.
I’m always thinking of how I can be prepared for any and everything. After four classes in the morning, I begin my own workout focusing on my legs. Anytime I am doing lower extremity workouts I am highly focused on the neuromuscular (mind to body) connection with my left leg to try and get better nerve and muscle stimulation. Having torn the ACL and MCL in my left knee is not the best mix with nerve damage I deal with from my post-gun shot wound.
A lack of feeling in my left leg is a challenge with dynamic movements such as lunges, step-ups, and plyometric exercises because of the impact on my left knee and its instability. I never let this be an excuse for me not to exercise or train my legs. I am on a mission to get it back and better than before.
After lunch and a short rest, the second half of my day begins. Back to the Beast Athletics facility to begin one on one personal training and small group training followed my evening classes for members. The afternoon sessions consist of a college-bound football player preparing for Indiana University football and a high school group of volleyball players preparing for a weekend tournament. These student athletes always give great effort and work towards getting better in their sport.
Evening classes begin at 5 p.m. with a highly energetic group ready including a new member coming back for her second class enthusiastic to get stronger. Followed by a very hyped group coming in for a 6 p.m. advanced class that consists of higher progressed exercises and movements. Attempts at first barbell RDL (Romanian deadlift) proved great understanding of the hip hinge movement. The 5 & 7 pm class is a introductory class that focuses on weight loss and the understanding of general exercises and strength movements. The 7 p.m. class was a big group that pushed themselves to the limit and definitely got better! Facing adversity is a true test of one’s own self-discipline and mental fortitude.
Home to good food, basketball games, and review of the day. I always take this time to think of how to tackle and improve upon myself for whatever may come next. I enjoy this downtime as I write my thoughts before getting some rest to prepare for another day to improve and be great. ✌️