Break your weakness with a hammer. 

It is official, I will be accepting guest posts from now on! 

Due to the extreme time constraints on me, I have decided to accept guest posts from now on as long as they go with the message of this blog. 

I will link and give full credit to the original writer of the article, if you are new to the blogging world and want to kick start your own blog, I would gladly help you do that. 

Send your guest post to ask.johndeus@gmail.com, It would be best if you could send me a short introduction first on what kind of topic you would like to read so we could both save each other time and effort, looking forward to working with you guys! 

This article comes from Mathews McGarry, Editor at a very cool fitness blog Ripped.me, go check it out, they got amazing health and fitness articles. 

Hope you guys enjoy the article, would love to hear your feedback! 

Break your weakness with a hammer 

Uncovering physical weakness is the worst nightmare of us men. After all, strength is seen as a crucial component of manhood, a testament to our worthiness in this world.  Alas, even the meanest bodybuilders have their weaknesses, so what can we “lesser mortals” hope for? Well, the path to true strength is paved with blood, sweat, and tears – not daydreaming and remorse. Weakness is not a reason to feel ashamed, but a signal that you need to fill yourself with determination and work on it.

It’s hammer time

First, we are going to hit weakness with a hammer, quite literally. Our weapon of choice is a good old sledgehammer, and apart from that, we also need something to pound on— tires, old logs and tree stumps should do the trick. There are many ways to swing this tool, but the “wood-splitter” and “wood-chopper” techniques work like a charm. Pay attention to the flow of movement and control the hammer. Switch hand position and keep hitting until you feel tired.

It is all about the speed and power you are able to apply. More importantly, the purpose is to set yourself in the right mood to tackle your shortcomings and give yourself a taste of the mental ability to absorb punishment. Therefore, make an effort to envision weakness at the receiving end of the hammer. After breaking some sweat, it should be easier to find composure:  this is the sort of preparation you need in order to face the real enemy— yourself.

Test the uncharted waters

People have a natural gravitation towards things they are good at. This starts in childhood when kids first display deftness in a certain sport. They stick to it well into adulthood, and as a result, a single set of skills gets developed, whereas other capabilities remain underdeveloped. Often, fuel is added to the fire as people persist in being their own coaches, instead of actually seeking professional guidance. Well, this is irrational since coaches are paid to have your best interest in mind, and help you accomplish fitness goals.

Furthermore, you need to make a realistic assessment of your body. Get out of your comfort zone and try out a sport you are not gifted at. Doing the same old same old is appealing, albeit not overly useful.  Fortunately, there are simple tests to determine your shape. Try to get up and down off the floor, touch your toes while standing, squat with your feet flat on the floor, and do pushups while keeping the entire body in a straight line. Difficulties while performing these exercises are a signal you have some work to do.

For example, the squat test may indicate that you lack a range of motion. Failing at the floor test, on the other hand, means you have lost primitive moving patterns. But, it is not the end of the world. Do not compare yourself to others, for the only purpose is to get to know yourself better and visualize the path to prowess. If the expected results do not come, modify the tactic, and seek personal trainers or training partners. There is also a plethora of free online resources you can use to educate yourself on effective training methods.

At last, bear in mind that hurdles are often encountered when you lose sight of other aspects of your life. First and foremost, nutrition plays a vital role in any physical activity, supplying you with the energy and building materials for muscles. Supplements can also be of help. Yes, the market is teeming with false claims, but many trustworthy products can also be found, that can help us obtain essential nutrients. There are also pre-work supplements that act as powerful fat burners and performance-enhancers. Use any tool at your disposal, provided that it does not undermine your well-being in the long run.

Forge of greatness

In all of us lies an inner weakling and that is not a reason to fret. Face your weaknesses head on and wield weapons capable of shattering the shadow of doubt and defeatism. You have only one body, so listen to it carefully, whether it is sending you signals of agony, pain, discomfort, or pleasure, pliability, and potency. Unlocking the core of masculinity does not involve resting on your laurels, but stepping up and getting to the bottom of your predicament. Real strength is forged only in the grand, everlasting fires of physical trials and tribulations.

By Mathews McGarry

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