Are you fit for the chase? What chase you ask? Well, it all depends on what your profession is. Law enforcement protecting our streets? Military personnel waging war against those who want to decimate our great country? Competitive shooters running through various competitions and courses? Avid hunters dragging game back to base camp? Or maybe it’s just the occasional shooting on random weekends. The fact of the matter is, as humans we have this deep innate desire to be good at whatever we are doing and ultimately the best in our perspective category.
To achieve the goals we set out in front of us it takes physical and mental determination. Make no mistake the physical and mental aspects are of equal importance. If we don’t have the mental tenacity to push through aches and pains then we can’t physically adapt to the added stress. I refer this part as “the grind” of the day-to-day preparations and training so that we may stand victorious on that given day where we leave nothing behind. The very next day begins the next cycle of “the grind.” Most just want to bask in the glory and be constantly affirmed of what they did. Then there is a select few that find the enjoyment and pleasure in “the grind” only to test themselves with new mental and physical challenges. It is critical that we find that “happy place” in the midst of chaos and pain as this is what separates winners and losers and in some instances life and death.
So how do we get “fit for the chase?” The starting point for everyone will be different. Some people can run five miles with a sub seven-minute split and others over a ten minute split. Some can do 100 pushups and others only ten. Some can do 50 pull ups and some only five. The list can go on and on but the starting point doesn’t really matter. The most important part is reaching the end goal and striving to be better than what we were before the last workout or event.
If you are not currently following any type of workout routine then the one below might be one you can start with. Keep in mind the day-to-day battle is not about perfection, it is about progress. Stay committed to the plan and see it through as it will definitely have its rewards. Be realistic with your goal settings as being healthy is a marathon and not some quick fix. Essentially any workout routine and healthy eating plan is setting yourself up for your future self. We have 1 opportunity here on this great Earth and I don’t know about you but I don’t want to spend it sitting on my butt getting out of shape and overweight with all sorts of health problems and watch other people enjoying life to the fullest by staying active and healthy.
Depending on your fitness level, don’t worry about how much weight you are doing. Same goes for bodyweight exercises, make sure that each and every rep counts by doing it correctly (no one likes a cheater and it actually sets you back in the long run). Form is the crucial part of exercising. The same goes for shooting; we start with a solid base and make adjustments and improvements from there.
Whether you decide to follow the workout routine provided or you are currently following an exercise routine, make sure you have your goals clearly stated and written down. We often measure our success by achieving the goals either we have set for ourselves or are implemented by someone else. Do you know your goals?
Always consult your physician before beginning any exercise program. This general information is not intended to diagnose any medical condition or to replace your healthcare professional. Consult with your healthcare professional to design an appropriate exercise prescription. If you experience any pain or difficulty with these exercises, stop and consult your healthcare provider.
By Joel Jansen. Originally published in the July 2015 issue of GunUp the Magazine.
