>> Why Should I train?

“Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your mind off your goals”

There will always be more reasons not to engage in an exercise programme, training plan or session at the gym than reasons
to engage. There are simply more barriers. The burning question here is “why is training important?”

Physical fitness relative to the mountain environment or to any situation (physical and psychological) can have positive or
negative effects on the individual and the overall strategy chosen to accomplish a particular goal. To get fit is one challenge,
to stay fit and sharp is another and thereafter the cycle continues.

The goal of physical training can be summed up in one phrase - “to make yourself as indestructible as possible.”

Physical training produces physical memories – not simply muscle memory but a psychophysical imprint. This becomes instinctual,
meaning once tested, muscles react to memory as opposed to requiring actual thought. This can only be programmed through
physical training and muscle engramming. Automatic actions and reaction is always faster and more energy efficient than
intellectually induced action. Simply put, through training we can then learn to think about what to do next as opposed to what your
doing at the moment. As an illustration, take a closer look at Slalom ski racing. There’s already plenty to think about when each gate
is coming at you at speed. Any response which does not require conscious thought spares intellectual energy for split decisions and
actions that do demand it. This is by far the biggest reason for physical training, as it’s not simply
about what you know, its about what you do. Training should be to the point that particular actions and responses may be executed
automatically.

Psychologically, training breeds confidence, where any deficiency affects confidence. When an individual realises that they do not
have the fitness and therefore the ability to make skillful movements to accomplish a task, or that they cannot use their tools (skis)
to their utmost, self doubt creeps in, which in turn demands intellectual thought, which as described above, weakens the ability to
make decisions. Confidence is a precursor to performance.

Having looked at why training is important maybe this will dismantle the barriers to choice. Barriers can be overcome with effort and
hard work where the results are more than those gained by taking short cuts.