training, on the go

For most of us, an important part of training is routine. Some work out before work, others after. Some arrange their workouts around meals, class, or whatever gives structure to their day. But whenever you work out, it is probably a part of a routine.
Not only time, but location is another important part of our daily training routine. The damp smell of your home gym, or the familiar sites at the local park can be an essential part of your workout, something that helps you clear your mind and focus on the challenge ahead. Finally, our equipment is a part of the routine. When I go out into my backyard, I know exactly what my weight bar feels like, I know that my pull-up bar spins because I never mounted it correctly, and that the homemade rings give a little because I need to tighten the knot on the rope that runs through them. This is my gym. This is home.

So what do you when your entire routine goes up in smoke?

I'm at my parents house right now, trying to see everyone before school starts back up again. I feel like training has become a lifestyle, so instead of taking a break while I'm here, I'm continuing to work out. Yet there is a whole new challenging aspect to this, I have no schedule, no set place to exercise, and limited equipment means.

I'm sure everyone who works out regularly runs into the same problem. Unexpected things happen, forcing us out of our set schedule. In order to continue to train, we are forced to be imaginative, flexible, and dedicated.

I have a couple dumbbells here, no pull-up bar, and there's a YMCA down the road. I tried the Y, but there isn't much to work with. It was crowded and uncomfortable; I couldn't do the workout I had planned for the day because they didn't have the proper equipment. Instead, I did the "CrossFit Total", maxing out on shoulder presses, squats, and deadlifts, which isn't something I have done before. I also worked on back extensions, something I know I'm lacking in.

Today I was going to try the Y again, but it was about to close. Frustrated, I made up my own workout: 21-15-9 one-legged squats, each leg, and hindu push-ups. it ended it being a pretty good workout.

I've learned from this that when your workout routine goes out the window, you have to "go with the flow", and not get frustrated. Try something you don't usually do, or haven't done in awhile. Come up with a routine you haven't done before; a novel progression or combination of exercises. And even if you're in an unfamiliar gym or a backyard with no equipment, plow through your workout like you always do. you'll be a better man (or woman) for it.