 | | In today's edition, Joe shares: - How Your Circle Should Push You
- A Strategy For Bad Joints
- Cold Weather Training Tips
| | | DO HARD THINGS TOGETHER | Spartans!
I've done a lot of hard physical challenges in my life, like the Spartan Death Race, a ridiculous amount of ultra marathons, and even the Iditarod by foot. All miserable experiences at moments, but never lonely.
During these journeys, I have learned that you can't go The Hard Way alone. We all need family and friends we can rely on for encouragement, support, and an occasional kick in the ass.
My circle includes my wife (one of the best soccer players in Penn State history), my kids, and an assortment of Army Rangers, Navy SEALs, scientists, doctors, and business professionals.
This group elevates me beyond my physical and mental limits through their encouragement, prodding, and overall help in keeping me accountable.
An example: I needed a challenge to end 2023, so I created a group text and asked everyone in it to ride the Air Bike for 10 straight days. We pushed hard to see who could log the most miles before the end of the year.
Now, I've tackled thousands of miles on road bikes, mountain bikes, and Air Bikes, and I knew I could crush it, especially with a little "friendly" competition. But as usually happens in Type A group settings, things escalated quickly.
One member of our group hit 20 miles a day, then 30, inspiring others to follow. The competitive juices began to flow and another member hit 40, then 50, and at one point, someone knocked out 100 miles in a day.
Each day that we added mileage, we redefined what was possible for one another.
The lesson is clear. Alone, our motivation and discipline hits a ceiling, but together we are unstoppable, even unbreakable. This synergy is why we've built a community of 10 million strong across all Spartan brands — to offer each and every one of us the opportunity to come together and conquer our own personal limiting obstacles.
Here's to The Hard Way!
Joe | | | You Ask, Joe Answers | Q: Hi Joe, My 45 year old Dad wants to get back in shape, but doesn't know how because of his bad joints. What is your workout and nutrition advice for him?
–Jonathan P., Manchester, MA
A: Hey Jonathan, Your dad should focus on what he CAN do at his level. If all he can do is stand, then stand while working, making dinner, or talking on the phone. If he can walk, then walk (a lot!). Every micro step forward is important as he gains confidence in what his body can do, and his joint pain eases up.
Once he can tolerate longer exercise, start with low-impact activities like biking, swimming, and walking. Even hobbies like gardening and hiking can improve his mobility.
As for nutrition, slowly cut back on sugary drinks, baked goods, and processed foods, which cause inflammation and can further irritate your dad's joints.
In their place, add whole foods like fish, grains, fruits, and vegetables.
The Spartan community is cheering your dad on. He can conquer this!
Aroo!
Question for Joe? Want to tell him what you think of The Hard Way? Email him at thehardway@spartan.com. | | | | They Said It | | "Continuous improvement is better than delayed perfection." | | –Mark Twain | | | EMBRACE THE COLD | As the chilliest temps of the year arrive, take advantage of cold-weather training benefits.
Studies suggest that exercising in the cold can activate brown belly fat — the kind that burns more calories than white fat and helps to regulate your blood sugar.
You may also find your endurance is improved in cold weather, helping you hit new milestones.
Sure, most of us would prefer a warm, cozy bed than a frigid slap in the face. Get over the mental hurdle by recognizing that a little cold won't kill you (unless you get hypothermia, so avoid that).
Then, gear up properly. That means hats, gloves, and warm base layers that are made of synthetic material, not cotton. The key to not feeling cold is to actually start by being cold. You'll want to dress so that you feel chilly when you first step outside. As you move, your body temperature will warm up, but you'll avoid excessive sweating that will only make you colder.
Think you can take on the ultimate exposure test? Check out our Winter Death Race that takes place on my Vermont farm each February. | | | The Hard Way Podcast | | | "The opposite of victim mentality is accountability. When you can be accountable for your decisions in your life and realize that you are in control…that puts you in a powerful position because you are now leading and dictating the future of your life."
–Craig Levinson | | | | | | Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up here. | | | WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THIS NEWSLETTER? | | | | | |
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