Mom - A Great Example

MUSINGS FROM A COACH - 22 APRIL '25

Well, I’m sure many of us in the northern hemisphere have noticed that spring has arrived, given all the exciting events happening. We’ve witnessed multiple bike races, run races (including the Boston Marathon), triathlons, ultras, and even a Swim-Run race this weekend. It’s been an incredible year so far, and I can’t wait to see what 2025 brings!

With the season in full swing for many, I thought I’d review one of the core training philosophies that has been with Team MPI since its inception: consistency, frequency, and self-awareness. I’ll use my mother-in-law, Pat, affectionately known as “Mom,” as an example.

Mom has always been active but never considers herself a “jock.” Having started a family at a young age, she didn’t have much time for organized sports. Naturally, like most people living near mountains, she skied with her family during the winter and ran with her friends throughout the rest of the year, including participating in races.

Now in her “later years” (she’ll hate me for writing that), her exercise routine consists of walking, yoga, strength sessions, and a general commitment to movement on a daily basis. Let’s apply our philosophy to her routine.

Consistency: Mom makes exercise a daily habit by creating a routine in her life. She repeats these habits, which ultimately lead to consistency. A good 1-3 hour walk around Boise is her favorite way to get exercise. Weekly yoga sessions allow her to connect with friends and challenge her body physically. After that, she completes a strength session to add some extra challenge.

Frequency: As I’ve always said, the body loves frequency! Mom exemplifies this by walking every day of the week. She also incorporates yoga three times a week and strength training twice a week. This consistent frequency establishes a weekly rhythm of activity that she anchors each day on.

Self-Awareness: Mom’s self-awareness is truly remarkable. When she doesn’t feel well on a particular day (which is rare), she doesn’t hesitate to take the day off. Even when she starts a 2.5-hour walk and feels tired after only 30 minutes, she gracefully turns back. Her self-awareness is quite high, and she makes appropriate adjustments to her schedule weekly, if necessary.

How does Mom manage to stay so active, energetic, and healthy? There could be many reasons, but I believe one of them is her unwavering commitment to consistency, frequency, and self-awareness. These qualities work together seamlessly, and I aspire to emulate them in my own life, including in my “later years”! I think we can all learn from her example. Love ya Mom!

Gratefully,

Mark

CEO Team MPI