Never Too Late

The group sessions are proving popular, currently running 2 sessions per week, one on a Monday at 1745 and another on a Friday at 0630.
Due to the popularity I'll be opening a time slot for another group on Saturday mornings at 0845.
These groups are open to people of all levels of fitness and skills. My job is to encourage and facilitate improvement in both, all while having a lot of fun.

I keep the group numbers small so get in quick, come along and train, have a coffee and go to the farmers market after :-)
Numbers permitting the Saturday group will start on Saturday 10th of August.

Well..... I did a thing

In the weekend I got to compete at a local powerlifting comp as a registered member of WPNZ (World Powerlifting NZ) with the goal of trying to qualifying for the Oceania champs in December.
Was not a great lead in, had been training well, finally broke the 200kg deadlift, squat and bench where feeling good... Then 2 weeks before the comp I caught one of the nasty bugs going round, hit me hard, couldn't train for over a week, and 6 days before comp day I spent 30 minutes mowing the lawns and couldn't do anything else.
Had to learn to park my frustrations, and think about just hitting the number to make sure I got the qualifying totals.

On comp day, still not feeling %100, coughing etc, bit bloody nervous, long story short...
Squat PB of 173kg, failed ego lift of 180kg on third lift, shouldn't have tried as took it out of me.
Average bench day, below par for me, got 110kg on second attempt because forgot to pause DUH!, the bloody ego again, failed third lift at 120kg

By this stage I think coach Marie was not to impressed with me LOL.

Only needed a easy deadlift at this stage to get the qualifying total so I was cautious and did a easy 180kg to make sure I got it, the did a comp PB of 195kg.... ego wanted to try a 200kg but coach told me not to do a third left as I was tanked and coughing again. After a little bit of a temper tantrum from me, I listened to her.

So.... the thing I did?
I qualified to represent New Zealand in the Oceania Champs (I think it's in the Old Fat F&*ker)

Funny thing is I'm happy... but not happy as I know I can do a lot better, but have to listen to my coach ! Hard thing to do what I often tell others to do🤣

Bonus of finishing late with the group fitness crew...
Bloody awesome

Need something to chase the winter blues away? Shortest day tomorrow so time to start thinking about summer... (I'm an annoying optimist) But the days will slowly be getting lighter.
So it's the perfect time to start, or continue, working on that summer fitness.
I'm opening up some spaces in the small group session that I currently run, twice a week, one monday Evening and one on a Friday morning. These sessions started out as a bunch of like minded Mountain Bikers working on there off bike fitness, but you don't ride to join in !
These sessions are open to all levels of fitness and ability as my goal is to make sure that you are doing the best that YOU can and that it works for you.
Always a lot of laughter, fun and good banter while working out.
The group is held in The Loft, see the video about myself and the space on NeverToolate.co.nz

Numbers are limited as I like to keep the groups at a level where I can keep a eye on what people are doing, and making sure it works for you.

Interested? Message me for more information.

🌟 Another Big Thank You and Welcome to one of our newest members of BNI Aspire, Kim from Purple Properties Management! 🌟

Thank you to Kim for your insightful presentation about property management. We learned so much about the complexities and importance of managing properties effectively. Your expertise and dedication truly shine through in the incredible work you do, ensuring stress-free ownership for property owners 🏠 and providing responsive, quality service for tenants 😁. It was also amazing to get to know more about you and all your creative background which adds to your talents in your job 🎨.

We’re thrilled to have you Kim, as part of our BNI Aspire Dunedin team. Looking forward to many more informative sessions. Welcome aboard!

If you or anyone you know is looking for a property manager we goes above and beyond Kim is who you need!

🌐 https://www.purpleproperties.co.nz/

Having a set routine when approaching a particular lift or exercise, a ritual you have, can help with the mental preparation for that exercise.
Something that a lot of people underestimate is how much your mindset plays in how well you perform that exercise.
This is something that I'm constantly working on for myself, and it has changed over the years, evolved.
When I was at my lowest with my mental health, deep in that depression and often had suicidal thoughts, I used a lot of anger and aggression in my workouts. As I worked my way out of that space I have had to change, anger is no longer there to use like that, so in response, I have had to find new ways to achieve that focus.
Can still be aggressive, but as my coach and friend said the other day, take the quiet assassin approach. So focused on the goal the movement that nothing else exists.
And to do that I need my rituals, the process where you physically and mentally get to that point.

The downside is that it I can get a little obsessive with it. Made the mistake recently in starting a new ritual when swapping out plates on the deadlift training. Started laying out the plates as I needed them, then realised they had to be nice and neat, or it felt wrong, but hell it worked 💪 😅

So what rituals and routines do you use when training??

Strength test week.
Have to trust the process, sometimes that's hard to-do, self doubt creeps in. Sometimes too much background "noise" in my head, thoughts, distractions etc. Always working towards that point of focus where you are just moving, that's all that's happening. Had a client one time describe it as active meditation, and that is the closest way of describing it I think I can come.
Broke my PB's twice on each of the lifts.
Squat now 172.5 kg
Bench 121 kg
And finally broke the magic number on the deadlift, over 200kg at 202.5kg.

More to come!

With GummyBear – I just got recognized as one of their top fans! 🎉

Talk about giving my system a shock, second social media post in a week.

In other news...
Trainers obviously know the right way to train, how to manage the loading on the body, moderate what is happening to get the most out of ourselves and our clients. However, as proof that sometimes our ego rules over what seems to be left of my brain cells I pushed out wayyyyyyy past my limit on Monday.
90 minutes of heavy weight training, squats, bench press and then more squats.... that was fine.
Mmmmm, nice day out, will head out on the mountain bike for a wee ride.... 90 minutes later.

But wait, there's more... The awesome group I train twice a week convinced me to join in with them, que box jumps, squat jumps, GTOH's some core, 100 bodyweight calf raises....

End result, stuffed left hip, a annoyed osteopath who spends a lot of time trying to fix me 🤣 and me struggling to walk in a straight line and having to postpone my next heavy session.
For me that's a lesson learned, honest... until the next time anyway.

P.S. the attached photo is a self own, it's about not taking life to serious and worrying about what others may think, just have a laugh ;-)

For the last 6 plus months I have been having a go at something different, well for me. Have posted about having a go at powerlifting, the last time I had any real structure aiming at a specific goal was probably 10 years ago for my second bodybuilding comp. Since then I have generally just enjoyed lifting for the sake of lifting. Often for how it not only benefited me physically, but also, and in some ways more importantly, my mental health.
Now its about some pretty daunting goals, I'm 57 in November and I'm currently lifting heavier in squats and deadlifts than I have ever before. But I don't pretend to know it all, as a trainer it's important to keep learning and extending myself. On that note I have a pretty bloody good coach doing the planning for me. Big shout out to Marie Soffe.
Looking forward to cracking the 200kg double, squat and deadlift.
Nevertoolate to aim for something bonkers...

Old saying "You can't teach a old dog new tricks"
Two points about that, I probably would want to identify more with a cat, you seen those mother%&kers stretch? How they can do that and not cramp...
I think I'm more "body wise" not old.
New tricks. First time trying box squats with a cambered bar. Never Too Late?
Ask my why I'm doing this;-)

Perk of the job. View from the loft while taking 2 clients through a training session.

Age.
Does it matter?
The reason I'm bringing this up is not because I'm old, lol. Hell, I'm only 56.
It because I had a chat with someone last weekend and was asking about their training, how they were going, what their goals were. And the reply not only had me saying WTF but shaking my head a bit. The reply was pretty much as follows "well, I'm trying to get as strong as I can now, as I'm about to turn 40 years old, and I know I will start loosing my strength and its downhill from then on"
Several points came to mind after the initial "Oh f #£K OFF" was as follows.
1) How does your body "know" you have had a birthday and reached a certain age. Hell, we made up the concept of time.
2) Who's to say at that exact point in time you suddenly get weak and frail.
3) Yes, we age, and our capabilities can change, but I'm doing a hell of a lot more now than I did 16 years ago.
4) Goal setting can include negative goals, saying you.
And finally it was also brought home that you whatever you're doing that day, you do it to the best you can... that day.

Never stop!

At the start of February 10 years ago, 2014, I walked out of a job I had been in for 19 years for the last time. 3 days later I was in a completely foreign environment, anxiety through the roof, scared, excited, wondering if it was the right thing after all, the unknown in front of me. That first day at the sports institute, is something I will always remember, little did I know what was ahead over the next few years, some incredible highs, fantastic people, teachers, and class mate's. But also some very scary lows, battles against my fears, and mind. Going from what was supposed to be one year, to doing a degree, the start of the 3rd year I hit the lowest I have, and had, ever been, contemplating putting myself into the warm forever darkness. That low needed to happen, something I had buried for decades, came out in the right place and time, as the support was there.
The trigger for this post is in the picture with this post, something that the person I love the most, my wife, did for me. A pictorial diary/record of some of my journey, and finding it again, as well as one from the previous year, 2013, reminded me of the start.
All the experience during that transition, and everything since has kept reminding me that it was the right choice, the name I chose for what I and my business represents, it truly is Never too Late.
Something I forgot at times last year. I have, and do, get to work with such a huge range of people, helping where I can to help them make a difference for themselves.

I believe in what I do and what I have to offer, while acknowledging I do not know it all, and will never pretend to. As if I think that, I will have stopped being willing to learn.
Here's to many more years, of hard work, laughter, tears, joy and being me.
And thanks to all my clients and friends who remind me how important that is.

A face even a mother would struggle to love lol.
But worth it, even with Jeremy Hall spotting behind me 🤣
Was an awesome day, with a lot of people who inspired me to keep going, and see how much more I can push myself.

Last Sunday I had the privilege of taking part in the Masters Powerlifting event, as part of the 2024 Masters Games. I say a privilege as there were some pretty inspirational people there, of all ages, giving their all. They are the living embodiment of, for me, what never too late means.
There was a lot of shouting, cheers, and laughter, but above all we celebrated everyone doing the best they could on the day. Looking forward doing more :-)

Powerlift comp check in done, now for a pre lift coffee and food lol

Time to step up and live my motto, and Business name. Never Too Late.
Been enjoying the change of training, learning more, not only with the training program itself, but also the improvements I technique.
Big thanks to Marie Scoffe for the training plans, the advice, and the coaching.
Something I'm happy for admit, is that I do not know it all, so I'm always willing to learn and challenge myself.
Get out there and do it!

Why you should train off the bike, as well as on.

Strength training plays a pivotal role in optimizing a mountain biker's performance, with a particular emphasis on the often-overlooked areas of core and upper body strength. While lower body strength is crucial for powering through climbs and rough terrains, a robust core and upper body contribute significantly to overall control, stability, and injury prevention.

One notable benefit of incorporating core training into a mountain biking regimen is the improvement of balance and stability. A strong core provides a solid foundation, allowing riders to navigate uneven terrains and execute precise movements with greater ease. Core strength is especially vital when tackling technical sections of a trail, where maintaining equilibrium can be the difference between a smooth ride and a potential fall.

Furthermore, a well-conditioned core enhances posture, promoting a more aerodynamic and efficient riding position. Proper posture not only aids in reducing wind resistance but also alleviates strain on the lower back and neck. As mountain bikers often spend extended periods on the saddle, a strong core contributes to sustained comfort and minimizes the risk of overuse injuries in the lower back.

Upper body strength is another essential component of a comprehensive strength training program for mountain biking. The arms, shoulders, and back play a crucial role in handling the bike, steering, and absorbing shocks from the trail. Developing strength in these areas improves overall bike control, allowing riders to confidently navigate challenging descents and maintain stability during technical manoeuvres.

Additionally, strong upper body muscles contribute to better shock absorption, reducing the impact on the joints and minimizing the risk of upper body injuries. As mountain biking involves navigating through rocky and unpredictable terrains, having a resilient upper body is key to withstanding the jolts and vibrations that come with the sport.

Injury minimization and prevention are overarching benefits of strength training for mountain biking, encompassing both lower and upper body strength. Strengthening the muscles surrounding joints, including the knees, hips, and shoulders, provides additional support and stability. This, in turn, reduces the likelihood of overuse injuries and strain during prolonged rides or intense trail sessions.

Furthermore, a well-rounded strength training routine that incorporates flexibility exercises enhances joint mobility. Increased flexibility not only aids in preventing injuries but also contributes to a wider range of motion, allowing riders to maneuver their bikes more effectively and respond to sudden changes in terrain with greater agility.

In conclusion, while lower body strength is fundamental for powering through challenging trails, the benefits of core and upper body training in mountain biking should not be underestimated. Strong core muscles improve balance, stability, and posture, while upper body strength enhances bike control and minimizes the risk of injuries. Ultimately, a comprehensive strength training program tailored to the demands of mountain biking is essential for optimizing performance, ensuring rider safety, and fostering a more enjoyable and sustainable experience on the trails.

Want to know more?