Strength From Struggle

Just as weightlifting builds strength, difficult experiences build character. Bradley Berlin explores how stress is relative and attitude is everything.

I started CrossFit roughly a year and a half ago after watching the 2010 CrossFit Games. I was under the impression I could start training for a new sport and it would make me $25,000 within the next year or two. Great deal, huh? Yes, it would have been, but unfortunately my ego deceived me.

I walked into CrossFit Nasti/Cincinnati Strength and Conditioning and introduced myself to the owner, Stephen Flamm. I told Flamm I was interested in competing in CrossFit. I told him my goals were to go to the Games that year and win them the following year. I can imagine it was hard to hear my answers over the sound of my ego.

I went through the third foundations class with a friend and did not learn anything. My capacity to learn was turned off because I already knew everything there was to know.

At this point, Flamm told Osborn and I that he had a special workout for us.