Back in 2007 I was lying on a hospital bed hooked up to some monitors and an IV. Probably sounds like a dramatic story coming, huh? Sorry. Just a routine hernia surgery. In and out in no time. Running again within a few weeks.
In 2006 I had run a marathon and I had continued my fitness into 2007 so I was in pretty good shape. Not world class. My marathon time wasn't exactly remarkable but I did complete it.
As I was lying there, the doctor asked if I exercised because my heart rate was pretty low. My resting heart rate when I'm in good cardio shape is in the 40s, often the low 40s. That's only OK if you are exercising. It's a concern if this is normal without exercise. So, all good. Then he makes a comment that has stuck with me. "Tony, your fitness is making my job easier AND your recovery will be quicker." That's good news when a surgeon is telling you this. I certainly hadn't planned on having that surgery but my preparation sure helped out.
Pro athletes, Navy Seals, actors... They all train hard and they train for the unknown. It's too late if you find yourself in a jam that you haven't prepared for. Reminds me of the movie Captain Philips. 3 Navy Seal snipers take out 3 pirates with 3 shots (one shot each) simultaneously. Precision was an absolute must. If any of the 3 had missed their shot by even a few inches, the hostages would have been likely killed. Oh, and the sniper shots were taken from a boat at a boat that were both rocking in the waves. Did those snipers know they'd one day have to perform this scenario? I doubt it. How often do you hear about these things? There is a reason this was turned into a movie... What if they hadn't prepared for this unknown?
What does that look like? 3 For 3. Regular workouts to develop Mental, Relational, and Physical fitness. In order to develop a Strong Work Ethic, Relentless Pursuit of Excellence and A Servant Mindset.
Mentors, books, podcasts, walking, running, pushups, healthy foods... You probably won't reap the benefits of all these immediately BUT they will prepare you for opportunities that come down the road. If those Seals had waited till this emergency to train on the skills needed to execute the mission those hostages probably wouldn't have survived.
What are you preparing for?
