We all like a good underdog story. We all appreciate the extra sacrifices that these uniquely unqualified individuals make in order to overcome the odds and climb to the top of their competition. It really is an appealing idea that in all actuality, it is possible for anyone to rise and conquer.

One story comes to mind as a immensely impressive underdog story. I had to opportunity to meet this man, Rulon Gardner. A Farm-boy wrestler from Montana, he came into what seemed a losing battle. In the 2000 Olympics,  Aleksandr Karelin a.k.a. The Russian Bear was going on a 6 year streak of matches with not even conceding a single point and consequently 6 years undefeated. It had appeared that he was well on his way to continuing this streak, until Karelin came upon something that had eluded him before, someone stronger. Gardner, credited for his immense strength from the farming chores he had to do on a daily basis at home, held off every attack and move Karelin brought on him. Mid-way through the match, Gardner accomplished the impossible and with an awesome reaction, scored a point, ending Karelin's 6 year streak. This point would end up becoming Karelin's demise leading to an incredible victory for Gardner.

Just because of my roots, who can forget the Cinderella story of Boise State vs. Oklahoma? The undersized, over powered and over looked football team that stood toe to toe with a colossus of college football teams leading most of the game and winning off of a last minute perfectly executed statue of liberty trick play. Still considered one of the greatest football games of all time, it is a reflection of the importance of discipline and mental toughness coupled with athleticism and power.

The stories are endless. There will never be a day when the underdog ceases to amaze and astound us in the realm of sport. One thing is certain, that there will always be that one athlete who finds something else within themselves that no one else has found.

Why can't that athlete be you? What is keeping you from reaching that next level? What steps are you taking to overcome the competition that has knocked you down? The human body is an immaculate machine capable of incredible feats, the body itself doesn't accomplish these victories. The will and determination buried in one's mind and soul is what drives champions to the podium. The only thing holding anyone back is a true commitment to being better. Commitment is the key. Commitment isn't just a promise that you'll workout more, or that you'll compete harder... a TRUE commitment is a pact made for yourself that alters your perspective and adapts your focus. It's a feeling of pain and motivation when you don't fulfill your end. With a true commitment, there is no limit.

Commit and Being Your Course...

Pull-up/Push-up Super set 4x??
Chin-up 3x??
Dips 3x??
Incline Push-ups 2x failure
15min Ab circuit

Every Day... A Little Stronger