Slowing Down

On Friday I tore something in my back while deadlifting. It was an interesting feeling, as I felt something in my lower back pull and tear during the lift. With this, I was incredibly bullheaded and stubborn, and didn't drop the barbell. I committed myself to the entire lift, while feeling the strain and damage occurring throughout the lift.

I won't lie; it was a neat but horrendous feeling.

With this, I am reminded that I need to realize the extent to which I am training (with powerlifting and Kung Fu), and to keep a humble heart and swallow my pride. If something doesn't feel right...don't do it. Simple enough, but a concept that many people (such as myself) need to grasp fully. In addition, listening to your body is an integral concept that martial artists and athletes need to fully take to heart. Friday was an off day for me, and I should have listened to my body more. Fatigue and a lack of desire to train (because hey, we all have off days where gumption is at an all time low) was hidden by ego and a desire to lift.

So far, the back is doing well, and Range of Motion and strength is almost back to normal. Lower back injuries are no stranger to me...I believe this injury is an opportunity and blessing in disguise, forcing me to slow down at times and to swallow my ego and pride. Injuries are also a form of empathy training. A sudden loss of ability and comfort forces one  to open their mind, and instills a greater degree of respect for injuries and disabilities.

Still not a Happy Panda for not being able to actively attend classes on Friday.