From the Physical Fitness Test at Torey J. Sabatini Elementary School (Madison, NJ) to post-collegiate football tryouts, one thing was very clear... IT WAS ALL ABOUT THE NUMBERS! With this topic, there are so many avenues to drive down. I've decided to make this a three-part post. Part one will explore the "Numbers Game" through childhood experiences through high school. Part two will dive into the "Numbers Game" of college recruiting and 'making it to the Pros'. Lastly, part three will be a Snellyville view of the "Numbers Game" of Health & Fitness as a Personal Trainer. So with that said, at the count of 3, let's jump back to '94! 1.. 2.. 3!
So it's my favorite class at Torey J... Gym Class! Mr. Katz, the physical education teacher, belts out "Time for the Physical Fitness Test!" For the next 45 mins all that mattered is how many pushups, pull-ups, and sit-ups that you could do in a minute. Fast forward a few months when spring has sprung. Mr. Katz is now even more enthusiastic! "Today we're going to time you in the 50-yard and 600-yard dashes!" While most would moan and groan, I matched Mr. Katz's enthusiasm. "How many tenths can I shave off last year's time? How many seconds faster can I run the 600?" Focusing on these numbers was definitely an early lesson of how to stay motivated and pursue a goal.
While this focus on shaving running times rendered early success in sports, I, quickly saw the toxicity of the "Numbers Game." Who said numbers don't lie?! At this early age, I mostly experienced this at track meets. Athletes were lying about PR's (Personal Record) while coaches fudged times to manipulate heat and lane assignments. There were even a few 'card-to-coach' double takes as I took the Seed Card. Anything for a perceived advantage, understanding that only a certain number of athletes can qualify to the next meet!
"Okay, Snellyville, enough of memory lane! What does this have to do with me?!" Great question! When starting on a fitness journey, I advise clients to start with activities and exercises that don't necessarily focus on reps, sets, and times. Rollerblading to a playlist, family bike rides, jumping rope, or exercising at a dance class are great examples of physical activity where you can just focus on enjoying yourself, friends, and family. No competition, no Timers! This way you are more likely adhere to a consistent fitness regimen. If you have a young athlete, direct their attention to the fun they had with friends, or that they got to visit a new place, instead of focusing on the hard numbers of the game! As you will see in Parts 2 & 3 - THERE WILL BE PLENTY OF TIME FOR THAT!
This was excellent!!!!! Very well written and said. You held my interest and I know the story is true!!! Amazing!!