Where Does Your Strength Come From?

German cyclist Robert Forstemann, http://www.mentalfloss.com
34" waist and thighs

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What is the missing word? Something that all need to some extent: power. Given the current political season, it is apparent that there are many who want a title, position and adoration that comes with holding an elected office. But let's not camp out on that topic. What if we look inward and define what kind of power we have - or lack - in our lives?

Some athletes are naturally gifted with larger muscles for explosive movements. Others are are born with a genetic disposition to have muscle mass or quick muscle twitch. Still more have a huge amount of power derived from their faith. Top racers have developed mental fortitude to drive the body to go longer, push harder and endure pain better than the average cyclist. Power foods are the secret weapon for some as well. Power is the desired source and outcome, isn't it?

Three Powers that you Can Not Ignore 

From Within
Whatever drives you and gives you courage and determination to handle the task at hand is a power at work in your life. Perhaps it is what gets you through a grueling work out. Maybe it is a religious belief. It could be something that a parent or grandparent instilled in you when you were younger. It could be a goal that is evading you. What motivates you to do what you do? Listen to the drive from within and learn from it. Follow it. Set a goal and strive to attain it - no matter what.

From Without
In the racing world it is said that "there will always be someone faster than you." How true! In the sport of racing of any kind that is a pretty big driving force, isn't it? Why compete if not to see who is the best? This is a huge external motivator for many. There could be a nay-sayer in your midst and you wish to prove them wrong. Quite possibly there is a record that you want to break, a specific race that you want the top trophy in or even a coach that you are trying to impress. No matter what the exact motivation is, it becomes a power in your life prompting a desire for action on your part. The external factor is what gives you internal motivation. Cash in on it!

From Hard Work
There is no denying that good old fashioned hard work pays off. If you put the time into plyometrics, sprint drills, interval training, squats, walking lunges and the like, you will most certainly gain more power in your legs. If you push yourself beyond your limits while on a training ride you will improve your mental and physical edge. Once you begin to practice the art of telling your legs to just shut up, you will develop a mental fortitude that can get you past a barrier in your performance.

Isn't this the kind of power we desire? We all possess a certain level of each of these three examples. However, let us not get comfortable with it unless backwards is where you wish to go. When the going gets tough - and it will if your goals are to keep improving self on and off the bike - you will do well to derive power intrinsically, extrinsically or from putting in the sweat. Look on the inside and outside, determine what it is you really want to do then put the hard work into it and watch your dreams become a reality!

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