The encouragement and support Daryl gave me that day have stuck with me to this very day.

You see, I didn’t know this guy except for seeing him at the gym from time to time. Sometimes we’d say hi. Sometimes not. I certainly did not expect encouragement and support from him.

On the floor after burpees after getting encouragement and support from Daryl – not the actual day photo. How did I know two years ago I’d be writing a blog post about this? lol

I don’t remember the WOD for that day, but it did involve burpees and box jumps, I think. What I do remember is thinking, ‘I can’t do this anymore; I’m so tired.’ At any moment, I would collapse to the floor.

I was on my last round, I don’t how many reps I had left, and I was the last one working out in the gym, I wanted to give up! I was still new at this and had no idea how far and how much I could push myself.

Darryl walked into the gym, and the moment he saw me working alone he began to shout my name, yelling to me “You got this Gus!”, “GO” and “MOVE.” I have to admit I was embarrassed to be the last one still doing the WOD.

Encouragement and Support

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Daryl started burpees with me. As our bodies hit the floor, Daryl shouted, “You can do this,” “You are doing it!” and “Just a few more.” That was a powerful gesture. I didn’t have more energy, but I did feel like I couldn’t quit or die now; I had to push on!

It took a while before I had the confidence to encourage and support other athletes during WODs, but I did. Walking into a new environment, like a box, can be scary and intimidating. I realized how vital genuine, sincere encouragement and support is.

I make a point of welcoming new athletes whenever I see them so that they know they never are alone.

Two years on, I am about to compete in my 4th competition, the 2018 Festivus Partner Comp in October. Stay tuned for the pictures!

I’ll get started on another post right away, sign up for my newsletter to be notified when I publish a new post!

Comments are always appreciated; let’s start a conversation!

Augustin
I started on my fitness and nutrition journey when I was 53. Along the way, I became passionate about sharing my journey, hoping to inspire others to begin their journey.