It’s time for another edition of “words of wisdom from ICA.” This post has been a long time coming. It’s a post I never thought I’d have to write, but here goes.
No one likes to be the last one done. Growing up, we fear being last. The last one to cross the finish line, the last to get picked for a dodgeball team, the last to turn in your math test in school. One of the things I love most about the CrossFit community is it has changed what it means to be last. In CrossFit, the last person working is cheered for the loudest.
CrossFit WODs are painful. Whether we are the first one done, we’re in the middle of the pack, or we’re last…. we all end up on the floor in a puddle of our own sweat. And as the pain starts to fade, it should be replaced by a feeling of accomplishment. But, have you ever been the person still working when everyone else is done? They’re all sitting there, drinking water, chatting and recovering. Their pain is over, but yours is enduring. You want to stop, just quit, so everyone isn’t watching you. The pain of being the last one done can hurt worse than the physical pain from the workout.
We are a team, and it’s our job to cheer our teammates to victory. Recognize that the last person on the floor has been working harder and longer than everyone else in class. Celebrate them, cheer for them, help them get to the finish line. Show them you believe in them and you’re proud of them.
The CrossFit Games start this week, and I encourage you all to watch some of the competition. You’ll see the most amazing thing. The best athletes in the world finish their workout, turn around, and immediately start cheering for the person next to them. At ICA, we should be doing the same thing. No cleaning up your barbell, no chatting with a friend. Finish the WOD, take a few deep breaths, and show your support!
This Post Has 9 Comments
excellent post “we are community”
And this is why I like coming to ICA.
BRAVO!!!
Amen!!
Well said! Words to live by.
Well said! Thank you!
Yes!
Pingback: WOD 7.25.2014 « CrossFit Delaware Valley
One of my favorite, ever. I guarantee this is worth the read:
http://www.competeeveryday.com/2013/09/crossfitters-eat-young-time/