The Power of Shared Experience

MUSINGS FROM A COACH - 10 SEPTEMBER '24

"We have the luxury of looking after ourselves. We have the honor of looking after each other." -Simon Sinek

After a big weekend of racing for Team MPI and Team USA, I found the above quote (thanks Jennifer) serendipitously on point. There can be an inherent "aloneness" associated with endurance sports. As athletes, we often spend much time by ourselves both in physical training and in our heads. This is often the attraction to this world - solitary time with oneself creating new goals and discoveries.

It's when, in these individual endurance sports, we spend time with others that we share in the full breadth of experiences that these sports bring us. From the support of family members to the community of training and racing partners, sharing the experience of these activities with others can bring immense joy. And we can even include the athlete's team (coaches, dieticians, sports psychologists, etc) in this as well.

I have been a part of three Paralympics as a Team USA Coach and have found incredible benefits of experiencing endurance sports with others. From emotional support, inspiration, validation and even healthy competitiveness, being a part of something special with others can and often does make a positive difference. It's exactly for these reasons that I often recommend group training for many athletes.

Once we realize the power of these shared experiences, we then can recognize the gratitude we have for them. Looking after teammates and training partners and being looked after by them is something special. And that's why I found the above quote so applicable. We do, "...have the honor of looking after each other."

Gratefully, 

Mark CEO Team MPI