Failure – Double Unders Bring it to Me in a New Way [VIDEO]

There is more than one type of failure.

In workout terms, 'failure' can apply to reaching a point where you can no longer do an exercise. That means you are done. With that set at least. It's used to take us to new levels of fitness, and it feels pretty good.

Then there is the 'I don't know how to do that' type of failure. Doesn't feel so good, especially when the order of the day is to do that thing.

The last two workout programs that I've tried (Crossfit and Tribe at Miramont) both have required me, or have at least had as an option, double unders. They are very hard to do. I have yet to become proficient at them, and honestly, when it doesn't work, it hurts. The jump rope slaps my toes, or foot, or shin. It hits my wrists and hands, and it can sting.

I was surprised at first to have my trainer tell me to do something that could cause me any physical pain besides that of strenuous pain. But, as I considered it, I began to wonder if this was supposed to be my reaction. When I couldn't just do it, like I can most other physical pursuits, I was forced to dig deeper, to feel humility, to really think of why I am not able to accomplish this. That's not the normal "I crushed it!" feeling I am used to leaving the gym with.