I don't even know where to start. This meet hit me on so many levels - deeper than just accomplishing my first single ply meet.
I had to hit the reset button a few months ago. With accepting that decision, I also had to accept that the leading months were going to be challenging mentally, physically, emotionally, and any other word ending in -lly. I didn't know what to expect. I still don't know what to expect. I'm still struggling. No matter how many times you fail or face adversity, each will be unique. You'll just have tougher skin when you come out on the other side (growth).
"There is no better way to fight weakness than with strength"
Training has and will always be a big part of my life. The truth teller. My fall back. My outlet. Cue in Henry Rollins. I took advantage of this opportunity to be my own coach and the responsibility of my training to travel and learn from others. It wasn't ideal (or should I say convenient) but it made me a better lifter/coach with fresh perspective and a more profound appreciation for having something to be passionate about.
Breakdown of training was simplified. I didn't need complicated especially in the short time I had. Raw training on weekdays. Geared training on the weekends. Again, I had a goal to hit a 1,000 total and worked down from there. Trained 2-4 times a week and slept a lot. Recovery was a no brainer but next time around I need to up my training - more volume period. Taking meet day into consideration, days run long and I am lifting substantial amount of more weight than I do raw. My conditioning needs to improve.
Meet Day
Months prior I asked Curtis and Lonas to be my handler. Check.
Training with Dave, he gave me some pointers to have gear to train in and gear for the meet. I ordered (smaller) gear. I had backup gear. I got spoiled. Check.
Staying at Jodie and Jabez's house made the commute to the meet shorter. I also know that Jodie is the ultimate caretaker and she cooked dinner and breakfast for me. Double check.
Weigh ins was not a concern for me and did not need to go in the day before. I gave myself enough time to check in, weigh in, and get my rack height. Alright alright alright.
Attempts:
360/390/no third attempt - 2/3
205/215/225 - 3/3
360/390/402 - 3/3
8/9 for a 1,017 total
My technique was off on my second attempt for squats. I wasn't utilizing my suit at all and needed to open up my hips more. I was gassed and my back was wrecked. I passed on thirds. I was immediately regretting that decision - the saying we regret the lifts we don't take. I had to look at the bigger picture and focus on the rest of the day. Video of 390 confirmed my decision. It was ugly. This is where I had to rely on myself for coaching.
Lonas was hands down one of the best handlers I've ever had. We are both laid back and that helps with easing off any anxiousness and pressure. He let me own every decision along the way without criticism. There was trust and when we had to regroup, I told him what I wanted/needed, and he came through every time. I can't thank him and Chloe enough for the support.
Competing alongside friends is always fun but nerve wrecking at the same time. Joe did an awesome job leaving everything he had on that platform. John got injured again but I was especially proud of him for setting aside ego and finishing the meet with bench and deads. He PR'd on both. It's always a work in progress. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it.
Some of the Union crew travelled to support. Thank you guys for coming! I can't wait to be back with you all.
The drive back home was emotional. I cried the entire time. Happy tears. Sad tears. If the meet didn't go as planned, I had to be ready for that too. Dave taught me something and I spoke lightly about this on my instagram. Your world could be chaos and falling apart but for 8 seconds on the platform, you have the choice to show up for yourself. Be who you need to be. I had that in mind the entire meet.
I still have so much to learn.
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