Coping with Unproductive Stress

Matt and Scott reflect on the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic and how it impacts everyday activities, including training.

Episode Summary

Recorded in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, this episode has Matt and Scott reflecting on how the pandemic affected everyday life and training, and how to cope with the kind of stress that doesn’t help you get stronger.

Topics covered

• The difference between productive stress, like training, and unproductive stress.
• How disruption to routines affects training and recovery.
• Ways to keep training going when circumstances change.
• Keeping perspective during uncertain times.

Training is a form of stress the body can adapt to and grow stronger from. Worry, poor sleep, and disrupted routines are also stress, but they don’t produce anything useful, and they draw on the same recovery resources.

When life gets chaotic, keeping a simple training routine can provide structure and a sense of control. It may mean training at home, using lighter weights, or doing less volume for a while. The goal is to keep the habit alive and come out of a hard season still training.

While this episode was recorded during the pandemic, the principles apply to any stressful stretch of life.

Key takeaways

• Not all stress is productive; training is, worry isn’t.
• Both kinds of stress draw on recovery.
• A simple training routine provides structure in chaotic times.
• Adjust the plan as needed, but keep the habit alive.

Episodes like this one step back from sets and reps to look at the habits and values behind a strong, healthy life. Use the ideas here as prompts: pick one that fits your situation and try putting it into practice this week.

Ready to build strength that fits your life? Learn more about Barbell Logic online strength coaching.