Crushing Iron: What it Means to Me

When I was contemplating this blog and what I would call it, my first choice for a name was “Chasing Iron,” but it was already in use.  I was a little bummed, but thankfully Crushing Iron popped in my head.  At first I thought was a little cocky, but Jim assured me it was “confident.”  I usually trust Jim’s opinion, so the rest is sorta history. 

I had a few things in mind when I started this blog. 

1.  I wanted a blog that lasted more than 10-15 entries like many in my past.  To date I’ve published 222 posts.  This was the first. 

2.  I believed that writing out my thoughts would help me focus and better understand the nuances of training.  I think this is without a doubt the most underestimated benefit. 

3.  The blog would serve as an outline for the documentary.  By the time we get to the race I will have averaged nearly a post a day and I think the words will be valuable memories. 

4.  I believe you have to be confident to succeed and “Crushing Iron” in the purest definition is empowering.  But, it means whatever you want it to mean.  I’m still not sure what “crushing” Ironman would mean to me.  Some days crushing it would mean to simply finish.  Other days, I dream about the perfect race that moves me through the finish line in under 12 hours.  Some days even less. 

I have started a zillion projects in my life and Crushing Iron is certainly one of the most “successful” simply because I am still writing, dreaming, and training.  The blog and the brand began in selfish roots, but so many people have reached out and claimed they’ve been inspired that my mindset has shifted.  It’s truly a lesson that everything is better when shared.  I’m fortunate to have met tons of great people, both in person and online, and I hope that everyone of them gets a little something from the blog.

Crushing Iron has become a lifestyle.  In many ways it has taken over my life and some of the changes have been difficult.  In order to change you have to be willing to come apart, and on many occasions I have.  I broke a very destructive habit of going to the local Pub more often than not after work.  I have “lost” many friends on this path because I simply don’t see them.  I have turned down a social lifestyle for the often isolated journey of searching on the inside. 

But the nature of my challenges is changing.  Going to the Pub doesn’t even cross my mind now and I’m not sure I could ever see that coming.  I haven’t “quit” drinking, but I don’t use it as a crutch, and I’m not sure you can put a price on that victory, especially after 30 years of practice.

Crushing Iron started as a catchy name for training, but it has been the impetus for change.  I can literally feel the sludge seeping out of my joints and a resurgence of youth that is undeniable.  Hopefully you’re crushing a little iron yourself.