Try this 1 Rule for Instantly Better Training

Today is my 9th wedding anniversary. It also happens to be the 16th anniversary of the day my husband and I met.

Naturally, I’m in a state of reflection on the last 9-years of marriage. Plus, we’ve now been a couple for more than 1/2 my life – I think this fact, in particular, is fascinating and something that gives me a great sense of pride and accomplishment.

As any person in a long-term relationship can attest to, you develop a series of “best practices” for your relationship. These best practices help guide you through any number of challenges and victories. While these things are probably pretty informal, the really good ones can be the difference between misery and continued bliss.

While happily sitting in this state of self-reflection this morning, I realized many of these best practices can extend to other parts of life and even training.

But there is one in particular I think is a more unusual way to test the validity of your training:

Admit when you’re wrong.

Don't let yourself be this guy.

I may be vehemently arguing my opinion, but the instant I realize I’m wrong… I admit it. Believe me, it’s saved a bunch of time over the years.

Try applying this to your current training…

• Have you sought the input from industry professionals only to write them off with a “they don’t know what they’re talking about” after they inform you the best way to train for your position at attack on the lacrosse field is NOT based around running 5-miles every day? Could you be wrong?
• Are you a college athlete who is choosing to toss to the side a carefully planned summer training plan from her strength coach on the basis that INSANITY is soooo hard, it must be better! Hmmm…
• Have you written off weight training while you try to lose weight because you don’t want to get too bulky? (Will this myth ever die?) You’re wrong… I’ll save you the time trying to decide.
• Are you still insisting that [insert favorite fitness magazine here]‘s recommendation that all exercises should be completed with 2-10lb dumbells and a set/rep scheme of 2×15 is sound training advice? Is there room for error here?
• Have you got the sinking feeling that what you’ve been doing just isn’t helping you reach your goals? That sinking feeling means a change is in order.
• Did you really think you’d use that set of training system DVD’s you bought from an infomercial? Yup, you wasted money, because… just admit it… you were wrong.

I just threw up in my mouth a little.

It can be tough to admit you’re wrong. But, wow, it always gives me a reassuring feeling that my rational self is in the driver’s seat and not my emotional self.

So, take a few moments to consider where in your life (training, relationship, business, etc) you can admit you’re wrong or have been wrong in the past and then make a change.

Your training – or maybe even a more important part of your life – will instantly improve!

This picture is too large, I know and I don't care. Happy Anniversary, Ryan!