Oh now I get it ... accountability

Loving and holding each other accountable

As Kelly and I have mentioned we are recently married.  Our first year of marriage has been pretty good, every day we grow together and love each other a little more.  Yesterday, we had a discussion regarding eating meat.  I was feeling a bit despondent about it and I shared that with Kelly.  We talked for a bit about my despondency and then Kelly said something that was extremely important for me to hear:

"If we don't ask each other questions, and hold each other accountable, who will? It's our job."

I have forgotten her exact words, but it is essentially what Kelly shared with me.  For me it was a turning point in the conversation.  That statement is also key to fitness.  Sometimes we need someone to help push us along. 

Every Wednesday I am awake at 4:30 AM to teach a 5:30 AM class, usually I go home immediately afterwards.  Today, though, I did something different.  I worked out. I spent 30 minutes doing today's workout.  I also asked my coach, Jamie Fiddler @ Crossfit Renegade, to help keep me accountable on doing a workout Wednesday mornings.  

As my coach Jamie keeps me accountable at the gym, Kelly keeps me accountable when I am at home.  What I eat, where I eat, and how much extra exercise I do all are managed with the feedback I receive from Kelly. Together, as our married team, we help make each other into better people.

 Who can keep you accountable to your fitness goals?

Yoga for Men: Lesson from Wanderlust

My wife Kelly loves yoga. Really loves it.  So a few weeks ago Kelly and I went to Wanderlust #wlbc.  Wanderlust is a four day music/yoga festival that culminates in a giant explosion of activity.  I like yoga but I have never really respected it as a "tough man" activity.  After Wanderlust and five classes in two days, I have changed my mind. Yoga is an excellent way to develop core strength, at least that is what my sore muscles tell me.  

My beginner downward dog, a work in process.

We have been practicing yoga a couple times a week since the festival and my flexibility has already improved! This is something that I, and men in general, often have difficulty with. My shoulder mobility has increased which has greatly improved my overhead squat. Plus I can finally touch my toes! That hasn't happened since high school! 

Try this pose:
For guys, doing downward dog is a great way to increase shoulder flexibility and  lengthen the hamstring.  The shoulder mobility will increase your ability to lift heavy overhead.  Increased hamstring length will allow you to go deeper into your squat.