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"Roll with the punches."

As a former wrestler and Jiujitsu competitor, I've always been drawn to the tactical finesse of combat sports. It's fascinating how two opponents can strategically play to their strengths and mitigate their weaknesses, much like a chess match within the confines of a ring. One of the defensive techniques in boxing is to “roll with the punches,” where fighters pivot and move to reduce the impact of incoming hits. It’s about quick thinking and quick moving, absorbing the shock with grace, and continuing to fight.

This idea resonates deeply with the ultrarunning experience. Ultras challenge us not just physically but mentally, often throwing more at us than we could anticipate. Rarely does everything go to plan, and we learn to adapt—effectively rolling with the punches:

• Stomach upset from hydration? Switch your fluids and move forward.
• Get off course? Correct course and move forward.
• Blisters? Clean, drain, tape—and move forward.

Every unexpected obstacle is an opportunity to grow in our ability to endure and persist.

Time to practice what I preach:

I had grand plans to tackle Mace’s Hideout 100 in June and High Lonesome 100 in July. However, life just threw me a curveball….or an uppercut - to keep with the fighting analogy. Recent discussions with my doctor revealed that my knee requires surgical attention, which means no running for weeks post-surgery, starting with crutches (hopefully for only a few days). Well, that wasn't in the plan.

So, how do I roll with these punches? How do I keep moving forward without letting this set me back too far physically....and mentally? What’s my plan? Well, here's what I've got so far:

• Family Time: I'll seize this chance to spend quality time with my family and perhaps enjoy a real vacation—one not centered around running.
• Strength Training: With running off the table, I'll focus on strengthening my core and upper body at the gym. Yeah, we use those in running. :) Those who track my activities on Strava will notice my increased presence there—still making progress, just in a different way. Moving forward.
• Coaching and Sharing Knowledge: I'm excited to expand my coaching, taking on new athletes and using my experience to fuel their ultrarunning dreams. Helping others to move forward.
• Volunteering: When I'm not cheering on the sidelines at my daughter's softball games, I plan to volunteer at races, supporting and encouraging others as they push towards their goals. Helping others to move forward.

It's tough to be sidelined, but with a solid plan, I'm mentally prepared to handle this setback. Rolling with the punches: I'm using those punches to propel myself and others forward.

Now it's your turn:

What challenges are you currently facing? How can you apply the principle of 'rolling with the punches' to keep moving forward? Is there someone you can help along the way?

Together, let's face our challenges head-on and continue pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve.

On the journey,

David

​http://www.theriot.run​

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