Three steps forward, 2 steps back

Game of chess

​If physical training were a game of chess, on good day, you move 3 steps forward. On average day, you move 2 steps, and even on a bad day, pushing through might still get you half a step forward. As for rest, it might look like standing still in the moment, but looking at the bigger picture, it helps us to restore and get ready for a jump.

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Acknowledging the signals

​Some say resting allows us to go further; others say rest is just for rest itself. Either way, whether your body or your mind feels exhausted, we shouldn't ignore the signals calling for a break.

​I consider myself a fairly disciplined person. I hold high standards for my own workouts, teaching, lesson prep, and follow-ups. While I don't foolishly expect to take 3 steps forward every single time, human nature is naturally ambitious, and I can easily overwork myself without realizing it. Yet, injuries and illnesses always serve as a reminder to pay attention of taking rest.

Falling sick isn't just standing still

​Although flu seasons or changing weather make us more vulnerable to catching a cold, much of this is predictable, and we can prepare ahead of time to minimize the impact. When you find yourself crawling forward at just 0.5 steps for several days in a row, it's no coincidence, it's rather your body's warning system. Falling sick isn't just standing still; it's actively taking steps backward. We have to learn from these mistakes.

To go far doesn't mean to go fast

Training smart requires strategy and knowing when to push or pull back. Training is just like life: we should embrace the philosophy of taking "three steps forward and two steps back." Be wise, be harmless.

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