Specificity of Training
The concept of training to attain specific performance is called specificity of training. The simplest example is that if you want to run a marathon, you run long distances for training, not 10-yard sprints. I think it’s more than that: the objective is to train the body to use physical activity, food, and rest in a way that creates better performance during specific tasks. Remember prepping for surgery or taking kids to the amusement park? It doesn’t have to be just an athletic event. You also have to be mentally ready for the task as well.
I define energy as the mental clarity to focus on any given task along with the physical energy to complete it. On Tuesday, I talked about a marathon speech that made it. Here’s an example of an effort that didn’t succeed.
Amazing Misses
Paula and I were watching The Amazing Race, which combines travel with completing tasks requiring focus as well as endurance. On top of that, this episode took place in a climate that was extremely warm. When one competitor who looked very fit was asked why he had to stop and rest while completing the tasks and was barely able to stay in the competition, he said he misjudged what would be required physically and mentally.
I don’t agree. I’d say he didn’t train properly to make sure he had enough energy to complete the tasks by manipulating exercise, diet, mental challenges, and physical challenges in his training. He had to know what it would be like; there are dozens of prior seasons he could have watched. Even though he said he was especially sensitive to heat, there are ways to prepare for that. He and his partner could have trained, anticipated the worst, and designed the training to sustain the ability to perform. That would include eating and sleeping during the competition.
The Bottom Line
Two extraordinary performances, one successful and one not so much. If you want to perform at a high level, regardless of the task, you have to train specifically for that task—an important speech, a road trip, even a vacation. If you want some help figuring that out, review your copy of the Optimal Performance program or purchase yours today.
What are you prepared to do today?
