The Folly of “The Way”
A popular sci-fi series show that is currently on streaming services features a set of characters that are fond of stating “this is the way,” when asked about certain aspects of their customs. But never removing your headgear really does not make sense to those of us that enjoy sun on our face and wind through our hair.
In the world of fitness and self-defense, there is often a common misconception that there is only one way to achieve your goals. Whether it is gaining muscle, losing weight, or learning self-defense techniques, many people believe that there is a single formula that is guaranteed to work for everyone. This belief in “The Way” is a dangerous fallacy that can lead to frustration, injury, and failure.
The problem with this belief is that it ignores the fact that human bodies are complex and unique. What works for one person may not work for another, and what is effective in one situation may not be effective in another. The idea of “The Way” implies that there is a single, correct way to move, lift, or strike, when in reality there are numerous variations and nuances that can make a significant difference in the outcome.
In fitness, the folly of “The Way” can lead to injury, burnout, and frustration. For example, someone who believes that the only way to build muscle is through heavy lifting may push themselves too hard and risk injury. I spent many years believing that if I could perform eight reps with a weight, it was too light, and I required more. And my joints paid the price for it! I hurt constantly for years! If you believe that the only way to lose weight is through running or treadmills, you may neglect a host of other important drills and techniques that can aid and improve your cardio.
In self-defense, the folly of “The Way” can be even more dangerous. Someone who believes that there is only one way to defend themselves may be unprepared for unexpected situations and may be vulnerable to attackers who use different techniques or weapons. This belief can lead to a false sense of security that can be shattered in a real-life confrontation. This can be especially dangerous if you are confronted with something that you have never seen or experienced before.
Instead of embracing the idea of “The Way,” we should recognize the importance of individualization and adaptation. Fitness and self-defense should be approached as a process of discovery, experimentation, and self-improvement. By recognizing that there are several ways to achieve our goals and by being open to trying innovative approaches, we can create a more holistic and effective practice that considers our unique needs, abilities, and limitations. It is human nature to want to stick with something that worked for you, and to an extent there is nothing wrong with that. But sticking to “The Way” to the detriment of your own advancement will lead to plateaus, injury, and a general loss of excitement, all of which can stall or even kill your training.
The folly of “The Way” lies in its assumption that there is a single, correct way to achieve our goals in fitness and self-defense. Instead of embracing this fallacy, we should recognize the importance of individualization and adaptation. By being open to trying novel approaches and recognizing our unique needs, abilities, and limitations, we can create a more effective and holistic practice that leads to greater success and fulfillment.