The Journey of Training: Progress Beyond the Numbers
Training is a magical journey, an adventure into the uncharted territories within yourself. It’s a personal expedition where you discover new worlds of potential and resilience. CrossFit’s methodology—constantly varied, functional movement performed at high intensity—sets you on this path of self-exploration. Like any great journey, the path may twist and turn, intersecting with unexpected challenges or veering into unknown directions. Yet, no matter where it leads, every step forward is progress in a life-long endeavor.
Progress in a Life-Long Endeavor
Let that idea sink in for a moment: progress in a life-long endeavor.
Now, layer that with another thought. Imagine an explorer navigating a rocky trail. They might stumble or fall but inevitably rise again, determined to continue. It’s this continuation—the relentless drive to keep moving forward—that matters most. The focus should be on the journey itself, not solely the progress markers along the way.
Progress is often measured in numbers: how much weight lifted, how many reps completed, or how fast a workout was finished. CrossFit’s structure provides measurable, repeatable data, and that’s undeniably valuable for tracking improvement. But the true essence of training isn’t found in the numbers; it’s found in how it feels.
It’s All About the “Feels”
Too often, athletes measure success by the numbers. If no personal best is achieved, they consider the session a failure. If a required rep count isn’t met, they feel defeated. Numbers can get into an athlete’s head—before, during, and after a workout—casting a shadow over the entire experience.
Focusing too much on the micro-level battle with numbers blinds us to the progress being made on a macro level. Training is about more than just hitting targets; it’s about embracing the process, the effort, and the joy of movement.
Story Time:
When I was 38, I decided to qualify for Masters Nationals in weightlifting. This decision wasn’t driven by numbers but by my love for lifting and the desire to improve at something I enjoy. The weightlifting cycle began in November and culminated at Nationals on March 31st. During those months, I made gains in squat strength, overhead stability, speed, and proficiency in Olympic lifts.
But something was missing. The joy of training faded as I became fixated on expectations and numbers. The blessing of simply being able to pick up a barbell—something I once cherished—felt like a chore. I had forgotten the magic of stale knee sleeves, chalk-covered hands, and the thrill of firing off a lift, hit or miss. That joy, that passion, is what makes progress in training truly fulfilling.
The Smallest of Scales
Why do we place such harsh expectations on ourselves? Why do we measure our progress by arbitrary standards?
I’ve seen athletes disappointed by a five-pound increase in their back squat or frustrated by getting “only” three butterfly pull-ups. Yet, these same athletes have made tremendous strides—progress they once thought impossible. They forget where they started.
Remember the first time you said, “I’ll never do a double under,” or “I’ll never lift that much weight”? And yet, here you are, embracing the challenge of more complex skills and heavier barbells. Fitness is a constantly shifting scale, and so is your journey.
Your path might not lead to competitive Olympic lifting or adventure racing. It might simply lead to a more productive life—playing with your kids, enjoying time with your spouse, or feeling stronger in daily tasks. No matter the destination, the journey itself is what transforms us.
Packing for the Journey
As you embark on your fitness quest, ask yourself these questions:
- Why are you on this journey?
Your “why” may evolve, but it must remain present to keep you engaged and motivated. Without purpose, the resolve to continue fades. - What is your destination?
Having a clear goal gives you something to strive for. Start small—master a push-up or a pull-up before chasing a muscle-up. The little pieces build the bigger picture. - How will you get there?
Without a plan, you plan to fail. Structure your path to success with intention and strategy. - Who are your traveling companions?
Choose wisely. Surround yourself with those who uplift and challenge you. Their support will be essential to your progress, and as you succeed, so will they.
Measure Success Differently
In the end, success isn’t about absolutes or perfect scores. It’s about how far you’ve come from where you started and the attitude with which you approach the finish line. Celebrate the journey, the small victories, and the joy of simply moving.
Because in this life-long endeavor, progress isn’t just measured in numbers—it’s felt in the heart and lived in the moments that make us stronger.
