Today’s post is quick and simple. Enjoy!
Do what you suck at.
That is a popular suggestion thrown around the strength and conditioning world, and I can understand why. Too many people completely avoid things they “suck at”, whether it’s working on mobility, flexibility, single leg exercises, and any other number of things that comprise a training program.
And let’s face it; we all know it’s easier to mess around on weight machines than get under a heavy barbell. For instance, using the leg press is a lot easier than putting a heavy barbell on your back and squatting. But we all know (hopefully) that squatting is better if you want a bigger bang for your training buck.
Another example: many people have terrible mobility and muscle imbalances, and for those individuals some single leg work could help correct those issues. They probably “suck” at single leg exercises, but they should do them nonetheless.
So using those examples, it makes complete since to follow the “do what you suck at” mantra.
However, I think sometimes we should focus on what we are naturally good at doing. For me personally, I am a great deadlifter – it is by far my strongest lift. I have long arms and great leverage, so I’m naturally better at deadlifting compared to other lifts.
On the other hand, I am a terrible squatter; my best squat is terrible compared to my best deadlift. My best deadlift is 315 (2.625 times my bodyweight), and my best squat is only 180 (1.5 times my bodyweight).
So in many peoples’ opinion I should focus on squatting, because I “suck” at it when compared to deadlifting.
Well, right now I think something different.
I would rather be a great deadlifter than a good squatter. I love pulling heavy weight off the floor and setting new deadlift PRs really keeps me motivated. So I’m going to continue to improve my deadlift and do what I am already good at doing.
So . . . what is the point I am trying to make? Simple – take a few months to focus on getting better at something you are already good at doing.
Not only will it be fun, but you’ll set some PRs along the way.
Give a try and let me know what happens!