Group dynamics are always an interesting experiment. When you add on an intense fitness testing elements the dynamics become much more apparent. I live my life inside this physical experiment. Long hours watching people struggle though tough workouts has really opened my eyes to many personality traits of an athlete. Here are a few observations I’ve made and I hope you can identify yourself and have a little laugh.
#1- THE ROOKIE
- The “nervous pee” is a true sign of a rookie
- Sometimes shy, guarded and in need of a hug after a hard workout
- Takes direction well, but often forgets to count reps
- A little tentative about what intensity really means?
#2- THE SPEED DEMON
- Main focus is to finish first at all costs
- Movement standards are secondary to the need for speed
- Only lung burning sweaty workouts matter to the speed demon
- Rest “whats rest?”
#3- HAWK EYE’S
- Focused on the group
- Pacing the workout off others speed and intensity
- Monitoring others standards
- Always looking at the leader board/white board
- Comparing oneself to others performance and abilities
#4-THE MATURE ATHLETE
- Comfortable with the uncomfortable
- Understands when to increase and decrease intensity based on overall well being
- Supportive of others
- Priority is quality movement and getting better every day
#5-THE MASTER
- Understands the difference between training and testing
- Moves with grace and upholds all movement standards
- Is willing to work the weaknesses even if it means slower times
- Enjoys a challenge and willing to learn
- Supportive of others
- Humble and happy
The most important thing to remember is that we all just want to be recognized for the good things we accomplish and we all need a hand when things get a little bit tough. If we all keep our ego’s in check, stay comfortable with the uncomfortable, try not to compare ourselves to others, learn to slow down sometimes and most of all make sure there is a abundant supply of toilet paper we all soon will be masters of fitness.
