EGO WON'T MAKE YOU STRONGER ⛓️
Don’t let your ego write checks your body can’t cash.
When you’re new to the game, pushing yourself into bad positions and grinding through awkward, ugly lifts builds raw, no-nonsense strength. It’s how you toughen up—both mentally and physically. But here’s the thing: there's an expiration date.
Eventually, those sketchy variations that got you strong could cost you. That’s where you have to draw the line. “If it hurts, if it’s putting you at risk for injury, it’s not worth it. Period,” he says. Training hard doesn’t mean ignoring your body. Ego lifting will catch up to you.
FOR THE NEW BLOOD: GO ALL IN (WITHIN REASON)
If you’re early in your career, take advantage of that window. Do all the hard stuff. Variations that put you in uncomfortable positions can make you an unbreakable, bulldog-strong lifter. But it doesn't last forever.
Build the base, then refine it as you get older and more experienced.
STRENGTH WITHOUT SACRIFICE
The longer you’re in this game, the smarter you need to be. Every choice under the bar should be deliberate. Is it worth risking it all for a 1% gain? Or could you achieve the same strength with something safer, even if it doesn't look as cool?
You have to know the difference between avoiding hard things, and being smart. It’s a delicate balance.
PICK YOUR BATTLES. LIVE TO FIGHT ANOTHER DAY.