The Adaptable Mindset of An Axistence Athlete

by Garrett Sylvester
co-owner: Axistence
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Times are always changing. Currently, things are changing fast. Most of us were unprepared. Bars and restaurants closed, then gyms were announced to close literally in the same day. Things are more unpredictable and uncertain than ever. The question now is what are we doing to do to adapt. What do we do now that we have been requested to shelter in? Does living an active existence stop due to the circumstances you were put in? Or does it continue because it’s a mindset that is always adaptable regardless of what is thrown at you?
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One of the unwritten qualities of an Axistence Athlete is adaptability. One of the biggest setbacks for us was the forced closure of our sacred training grounds. Overnight, we were no longer able to train in the places we loved. We are now trying to figure out how to stay strong, durable, and fit without our beloved training facilities. Some of you may have thrown in the towel and said that’s it until the gym reopens. The rest of you decided that you would not succumb to the circumstances. You looked for ways to adapt. Some of you immediately bought gym equipment to have at home. Others looked for programs and coaches to follow and train under. Some of you even decided it was a great opportunity to get your cardio up and you started running again (I will be the first to admit that I am not one of those). The point is you figured out a way to stay on top of your health by ADAPTING to the circumstances, not giving in!
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Here are some ways YOU can adapt to stay strong, fit and living an active existence!
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1) Find Odd Objects Around Your House to Train With
This is an opportunity to let your creative side shine! Are there rocks in your backyard? Pick them up and put them down (just be mindful when doing so). Maybe you have five-gallon water jugs laying around. Fill them up and use them as weights. Grab an old backpack and turn it into a sandbag. You get the point.
2) Create Daily Challenges with Your Community
This is a great way to get others involved as well. Get whoever you know to participate in a challenge. This can anything from doing bodyweight exercises to getting your steps in to doing goofy challenges. You and those involved will feel connected in times where we may be the most physically isolated. The bonus of accountability is thrown in there as well!
3) Get a Puppy
There is no better time to get a dog. With being stuck at home, this is the best time I can think of for you to have a well-trained dog. There is nothing like having little companion to go on walks or runs with. Your new furry companion will likely make you move a lot more too. 
4) Pick a Skill You Always Wanted to Have
Now for some of you, this totally could be another fitness movement. Want your first pull up? Find a program and get after it. Maybe you know deep down that you need work on your mobility (this is me telling myself to get on it). Go online and search for a follow-along yoga flow. On the non-fitness side, this is also a great time learn a skill. This could be drawing, picking up an instrument, learning a new language, or practicing survival skills. 
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Remember that the ball is still in your court despite the circumstances. The Axistence Athlete is always learning, growing, and adapting. Decide how you want to adapt, reach out to your communities, and create opportunities in this rare time in history!

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