When it comes to physical training, I think the mindset we take is critical and I like to break them down into two approaches: Training Optimally and what we can tolerate/endure. While both can lead you down the path towards achieving your fitness goals, they are a big difference between the two.

It’s important to remember our goals here, we might need to take a step back and really have a deep reflection on what we truly want out of our fitness. So back to the topic here, optimal training focuses on getting our body and mind to perform at their best, using evidence and relevant methods to increase strength, endurance overall general fitness. On the other hand, training to tolerate is more about how far can we push into, what I like to call, “the darkness” to build mental toughness and resilience.

So, which approach is better for you? Let’s take a more in-depth look here.

Optimal Training

Optimal training is really focused on evidence-based data, based on your physical capabilities and where you are currently with your fitness and developing a program that will maximize your physical potential. This style of training can focus on progressively getting you stronger and fitter over time with a focus on proper technique and recovering optimally to help you get the most out of your training.

So the name of game here is consistency, so we want to avoid injuries as much as possible. By developing a well-designed program, you can ensure that building strength and endurance in an effective and safe way. When we train consistently, we can have focused more on being efficient, and this allows us to get to our goals quicker.

When we are able to get to our goals quicker, through a thoughtfully designed program, we can start pushing our newfound strength and endurance to new limits.

So I do need to discuss this mindset or method’s drawbacks, it can get expensive ($$$$$). Hiring a coach and purchasing specialized equipment can up really quickly. Also, there can be a bit of rigidity to this method, as it requires the individual to stick to the program.

Training to be better!

Training to tolerate has a focus on getting the individual to push into areas of discomfort and pain to build up mental resilience. This type of training is often associated with individuals whose focus is on endurance. The focus here is to able to push through physical and mental barriers to achieve fitness goals.

One of the biggest benefits of training this way to is focusing on developing mental toughness. By pushing through discomfort and pain, you have the ability to develop resilience and learn to overcome barriers. This can be beneficial not just for fitness goals, but it can be applicable for other areas of life.

The cost ($$) can be less expensive, you most likely don’t need specialized equipment or a fitness coach to push yourself. This style of training can be more flexible.

One of the biggest drawbacks is that pushing through discomfort has a higher risk of injuries and burnout. Also, this style of training can be less efficient, and you may spend so much time pushing your limits without really seeing significant improvements in your fitness levels.

Which is the best option for you?

This choice is really up to you and your goals. If you are looking to improve your physical fitness, training with a focus on optimal performance is probably the best choice. However, if you are interested in building mental toughness, training to tolerate may be a better fit.

A really good option may be to combine the two approaches. You can focus on taking the best of both worlds. For example, you might use optimal training to build a strong foundation of strength and endurance, and then use training to push yourself to new limits.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward your fitness goals, click the button below to book a free intro call:

A really good option may be to combine the two approaches. You can focus on taking the best of both worlds. For example, you might use optimal training to build a strong foundation of strength and endurance, and then use training to push yourself to new limits. If you’re ready to take the next step toward your fitness goals, Book Your Free Intro Call .