On Weightlifting: A Personal View

Chapter 4

ON THE BENEFITS OF SUBORDINATE EXERCISES

BOTH IN REGARDS TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE BODY AS WELL AS THE WELL-BEING OF THE MIND

BY DONNY SHANKLE CPT

“Familiarity Breeds Contempt.” Anonymous 

14

WALKING

If you did not know this already your body was made to walk and likes walking. I did not say running or force marching, which for a weightlifter who is training everyday to compete is probably not the best of ideas. In between training sessions or active rest days is a great time to get outside in the sunshine and go for a leisurely stroll. Walking clears the mind and is a way to recharge your batteries. At times training can be very stressful, not just on the body but, on the mind as well. Anyone who has trained with other competitive weightlifters knows the kind of intense, aggressive, and demanding competition weightlifters bring against each other during practice. Going for a light walk on your own, with a friend, or with your team will help to invigorate your spirit and act as a form of meditation. People have been known to cover vast distances walking and I myself at one point have force marched 25 miles in one day. This, however, is not your goal when you do go for a walk as a weightlifter. Instead, keep it short and at a comfortable pace in a place which offers some great scenery. If you find yourself huffing and puffing then you are more than likely pushing yourself too hard. Save your energy for the platform and use this subordinate exercise as a chance to relax.

REPS: N/A

SETS: N/A

ADVANCED WAY: N/A

DURATION: 20-40 minutes

PLACEMENT IN TRAINING: In between sessions or active rest days