Exploring Your “Red Zone”

Have you ever wondered what your limits were? During training, that place where you’re completely focused, slightly uncomfortable, and working at your maximum effort is called “the Red Zone.” Whether you are running or lifting weights, it is often difficult to tell if you are working as intensely as you could or should be. Unless you are among the fit elite, I would argue that you haven’t the slightest clue how powerful you (Yes, you!) really are.

Many of you may be saying, “But, I don’t necessarily want to know my limits. I just want a good workout!” Well, there is a reason we train with intensity and it has to do with the type of response we get from our bodies. As we begin to train closer to that threshold of our work capacity we, in a way, are forcing our body into a corner. In that corner, it will  adapt or die.

Sounds scary, huh?

The good news is, this won’t kill you. The better news is, you body sure will adapt! The goal is, in fact, to get our bodies to change, isn’t it? Performing safe movements at high intensity, especially under the watchful eye of a coach or two or three is a wonderful recipe for success.

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Managing that fine line between working in your “Red Zone” and losing control is quite an arduous task. It’s often the difference between a personal best time or a uber-productive training session and going in the tank, or puking. It is important to remember that it is a skill to know how fast is fast enough and how fast is to fast. Honing in on this skill may come at a cost such as some post workout light-headedness or even a visit from “Pukie.” Mastering your intensity, though, means mastering your results.

You are the driver! Learn your body, and learn your limit. The hardest part will be knowing that place and being willing to go there again…. and again….and again!

Logan Gelbrich

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AMRAP 7

7 KB Thrusters

7 Sit ups

-Rest 5 min—

AMRAP 7

7 OHS (PVC)

7 burpees