As we said in previous post, all natural phenomena have a Gaussian trend: our physical performance can’t be an exception.
When we engage in an activity of a certain intensity, we must relise that we can’t suddenly reach our maximum potential.I offer, below, three variations, from different standpoints, of the same phenomenon:
- if it is exercise or physical activity, our power increases over time, and is stopped by fatigue;
- if it is a manual skill, our ability will increase after a certain period of practice;
- if we take a step, we will reach our maximum speed after a few seconds of acceleration…
- and so on.
To make the most of an activity, we will find that the most effective strategy is to gradually prepare ourselves for the effort.
The muscular system and joints, the circulatory system, the mechanisms of energy production work much better if prepared gradually before tackling the ultimate commitment. You will have a greater range of motion (more amplitude of movements) when you warm up and stretch the muscles gradually, you’ll certainly run faster if you run slowly for several minutes before the race, if you are carrying or lifting weights make sure that the spine, the back muscles, joints, tendons, legs and arms are prepared. It’s better to do some preventative movements, and massage those parts that will have to work harder. Conversely, you notice you feel less fatigue if you do not interrupt an intense effort all at once. For example, after climbing the stairs, don’t throw yourself down on an armchair on the 13th floor. Although it may seem harder, you will see that it will be much more pleasant and balanced to stand, keep your legs moving to prevent them from going numb, continue to breathe heavily and move around the room, even at a slow walk. If you sit only once your breath has calmed down and your muscles are no longer numb, you will find that within minutes (or the next day) you will feel better and less tired. Even a mental performance may be better if well prepared, although the mind, pleasure and desire have much faster and stronger dynamics, as they are fuelled by the heart and its muscles! Of course, the subjects we brought up today call for a series of insights, which I will provide with pleasure in the days ahead :) [Translated from Italian by Hayley Egan]
Image courtesy of cronyinfotech.com
