Why 
do I compete if it’s not to “WIN” or turn PRO?
The way I live my life is my statement to the world, representing by living values, beliefs, and aspirations. I’m defined by three core values FAMILY, COUNTRY & HONOR.
Many things are within control, and some things are out of my control. Knowing the difference gives two options: Surrender or die trying.
One and a half months out from the Governor’s Cup my knee gives way during a lateral movement. An MRI and Ultra Sound Reveals a meniscus tear and ACL Tear. The pain is disabling and I’m no longer able to use my legs for Cardio and leg exercises. That should have stopped almost everything (military duty, hobbies, and my prepping for a Men’s Physique show. I could have sat down in awe of my injury, and unhappy with how unfairly life is treating me. Instead, I gather my thoughts, and an amazed with all that I was blessed with. All it takes is a positive reaction, and knowing I am in control.
Competing is simply a challenge to myself, and enjoyment in meeting new people around the fitness community. In my life, good company surrounds me. I draw positive energy from my family, shipmates, and friends. No matter where I am in life, having them by my side ensures I can get through anything.
As the days progress, I realize I may not come in with the best physique for the show, but the thought of possible failure was out the door. It’s not about a trophy, pro card, society’s approval. It is all about the idea of finishing and putting forth the effort to conquer this new obstacle. If things don’t end up the way I have planned, I’m content with the progress I’ve made. No matter how many times I fall, lose, and find myself questioning why I do it. I’ll remind myself to keep marching forward with the warrior mentality that I will not lie down and surrender. No matter what obstacle is presented to you in the journey of life, you can always give each moment a positive spin. There are so many roads and paths you can take to get to where you want to be.
This is no more than a challenge in discipline. Discipline is about knowing what must be done and doing it no matter what it takes. Discipline allows us to be in control of our life. Discipline starts with you.
How did I make adjustments due to my knee injury?
One day I realized I could start swimming. Swimming is something you could probably do for your entire life without risking injury. Strength training, and running always presents a risk of injury. Swimming of course lowers your body’s weight when submerged in water. This lower weight gives my knee joint relief without too much pressure. At the same time, water is much denser then air and with each kick, push and pull there is resistance to the whole body. Unlike steady state cardio where the metabolism slows down as soon as you hop off the machine. The body continues to burn calories like wood in a furnace due to the mini-resistance of the water. Swimming requires every muscle in the body to work in sync to keep motion and afloat. Think about it!
The same principles of any cardio routine on the treadmill, bike, ellipitical etc requires: warm-up, workout, and cool down.
My typical swim workouts ended around = Total 2,000 yards for 30 minutes
From one end to the other end of pool = 25
Warm up 300 Yard freestyle easy
200 Yard kick easy
Workout 10x25 Yard sprint 15-30 Sec rest
8x50 Yard sprint 30-60 Sec rest
6x50 Yard Kick Board sprint – 30 Sec rest
6x25 Buoy between leg sprint – 30 Sec rest
Cool Down100 Yards freestyle easy
100 Yard easy
My goal is simple – continue to train and step on stage at my best despite the challenge of the knee injury.
I will have to sacrifice, put fourth effort, and endure the struggle. Nothing worthwhile is ever easy. In the end, I’m not sure what comes out of me continuing on with the show despite my injury, but I know I’ll come out a better man.
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