Maybe I just do not understand.
Why (maybe I should say "how") do athletes tend to always go for the money when it comes to building a new contract?
I know. You might be thinking, "why not for go for the big pay out?" So, you mean that the big pay out is more important, more trustworthy, more potent, more exciting, more optimal, and more than playing or winning a "world" championship?
My beef is that players make the wrong decisions almost 100% of the time. There have been a few occasions when professional athletes have switched teams and opted to go to another team either for less pay or for more pay and make a championship appearance or win one: LeBron James and Chris Bosh (still pending), Shaq (still pending), Cliff Lee (made an appearance), Marian Hossa (won a Stanley Cup).
Then, there are players like Amar'e Stoudemire who received more money by switching to the New York Knicks. They're abysmal this year (again). I dread news that arrives when a good player on a good team seeks other options to join a mediocre team for more money. It tells me that winning a "world" title does not mean a thing. Tell that to Kobe Bryant, Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, Scott Niedermayer, and some others who have negotiated their contracts to come back and win a title.
It's a different story when a good or bad team simply dumps or releases a player. Free agency seems to hurt the sport and others. There must be something bigger than pushing for the dollars!
So, I am not a professional athlete. Never have been. It was a dream when I was younger. It's a reality that I realize would not occur years ago. I love working out like an athlete. I love sports. Grew up playing sports. I'll try basically any sport that I never have played at a competitive level. I'll watch virtually any type of sporting event. But, the one thing I cannot comprehend is a hoopla of money over a potential title. I guess one is guaranteed, and the other is unpredictable. The prediction should be greater than the guarantee in this case.
I'd rather retire from a sport without a title, with millions of dollars made, and with many people talking about my skills (Stockton, Iverson - he's not entirely gone) than retire without a title, make tens of millions of dollars, and be a team-to-team money (not title) chaser.
Derek
Friday, November 19, 2010
Maurice Clarett
Have you heard Maurice's story?
Now, as a Penn Stater I am rooting for this Ohio State Buckeye. I think his story is remarkable. Sure, there will be haters, hecklers, and have-nots who will try to deter Clarett from his goal and torment him through his journey. But, his determination and humility are very attractive.
Whether you are familiar with his story or not, Maurice Clarett was the feared running back for the Ohio State football team in 2002. That's right he starred for one year. He received a suspension from the team, was kicked out of school, challenged the NFL draft eligibility, wound up being drafted, was cut after the pre-season, partied hard (might as well say unsafely), involved himself in criminal activity, and faced up to about 20 years in prison.
That's the short version.
To hear him speak of his turn around from his old self is amazing. I would describe him as an individual who knows what it taste like to begin to bounce back and to bounce back. After enduring all of his tribulations, he returned to OSU (Ohio State University) to get his degree. With much affirmation and assistance from positive mentorship, he has collected himself. His mind has changed. His way of thinking has changed. His attitude has changed!
As a running back for the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League (UFL), Clarett is eyeing his prize.
But, have you listened to his story?
Now, as a Penn Stater I am rooting for this Ohio State Buckeye. I think his story is remarkable. Sure, there will be haters, hecklers, and have-nots who will try to deter Clarett from his goal and torment him through his journey. But, his determination and humility are very attractive.
Whether you are familiar with his story or not, Maurice Clarett was the feared running back for the Ohio State football team in 2002. That's right he starred for one year. He received a suspension from the team, was kicked out of school, challenged the NFL draft eligibility, wound up being drafted, was cut after the pre-season, partied hard (might as well say unsafely), involved himself in criminal activity, and faced up to about 20 years in prison.
That's the short version.
To hear him speak of his turn around from his old self is amazing. I would describe him as an individual who knows what it taste like to begin to bounce back and to bounce back. After enduring all of his tribulations, he returned to OSU (Ohio State University) to get his degree. With much affirmation and assistance from positive mentorship, he has collected himself. His mind has changed. His way of thinking has changed. His attitude has changed!
As a running back for the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League (UFL), Clarett is eyeing his prize.
But, have you listened to his story?
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
HAHPN - November #4 2010 - Nutrition & Wellness Connection
- Supreme Eat
- Ruffling Some Feathers
- Food Exchange. Food Challenge
Hey, the holiday season is coming, which means the supreme eating season is arriving. One of three things will happen, but make the right decision:
1. Overconsumption of food, under perform (perform is used to mean play/exercise/move/etc.)
2. Overconsumption, over perform - this would tend to be rare
3. Underconsumption, under perform
4. Consume well, in balance, in control, and in variety, optimally perform
Doing #4 is your best choice. It most likely will be your most difficult choice of this season, especially if you do not already have an effective exercise routine. Most people are used to doing #1. I'll be brief: #1 is a scapegoat for developing or planning a "New Year's Resolution", which only lasts until the end of January anyway.
Ruffling Some Feathers
Go above and beyond your normal schedule or routine. In a time where schedules go awry, it is vital to maintain control of them; but you can still go the extra mile.
Let's right to the point again: Remember the meaning of this entire season. Does it mean anything to you? What does it mean...? These are just two questions to ask yourself. I'm not solely talking about the meaning of Christmas or of Thanksgiving. I'm also including what does your current predicament mean to you? You may be overly stressed, consumed by deadlines, mixed with family stuff, and burdened by loads of things that linger in your mind. Not to mention, the weather is getting colder (I think).
So, laying low may or may not be the absolute best option. Attacking certain situations are sometimes necessary. But, do everything with control, as I say even with fitness.
Food Exchange. Food Challenge
Eight. Eight days until Thanksgiving. In what is probably the most busiest time of the year for grocery and wholesale stores lies one of the most challenging times for anyone with a fitness goal. No wonder there are so many Turkey Trots before the feast! Can we make a deal, please?
Here's what I have: With nine days left, can we challenge ourselves to eat as healthy as possible as a pre-appetizer? That is, eliminate any fried food, fast food (i.e., McDonald's, Wendy's, etc.), substitute a sweet dessert for fruit, don't skip breakfast, eat dinner early versus later in the evening, and treat lunch time likes it's supposed to get you through the rest of your work day, which means watch the grease and see the beginning of this paragraph. It's only for the next eight days!
Your exchange. Try it (you may already do it): That instant oatmeal in the kitchen cabinet...yup, the one that is microwavable...in its place, if you're into it, exchange it for some whole oatmeal. Yes, the one that requires boiling water. Said even better; it's natural cooking environment.
Be well,
Derek
HAHPN - November #3 2010 - Thanksgiving Excerpt
- With Firm Control
With Firm Control
A sequence of events have surfaced and have prompted me to write this piece on urgency as it pertains to health, fitness, and wellness. Life is so incredibly precious and an immense challenge that we face. Too often, we put off things that we need to do today or very soon. It's a struggle. At times, we sit back and watch things go by as if we are merely spectators only to say to ourselves later on, "Man, what if I did this?" or " I should have done that". In some cases it's necessary to take a look at what has transpired and at what steps still need to be taken.
Firm control...oh, how it is applied to everyday life and to everyday health, fitness, and wellness.
Be well,
Derek
HAHPN - November #2 2010
- The Arsenal: 13+ Benefits
- Just Run It Out. Hike It Out. Walk It Out. Bike It Out.
- Aging
The Arsenal: 13+ Benefits
1. Health and Human Performance e-Newsletter (HAHPN) and HAHPN on Blogger - center the crux of health, fitness, and wellness information. Your email is added to the e-listserve
2. Home Exercise Program routines (HEP) - encourage you through postings to use these as supplemental exercises whether or not you have a normal exercise routine.
3. Referral System - entitles you to receive more sessions and network with others in the process. After your first session purchase, anyone you refer garners you a complimentary workout.
4. YouTube Videos – you are not obligated to participate in this benefit. However, it serves as a learning tool for those who tune in to the YouTube channel.
5. Movement Recipes
6. Food Recipe Tips
7. Accountability Partner
8. Movement Screens
9. Ergonomic Set-up
10. Community service
11. Movement Activities
12. Workshops and Lectures
13+. The ones I have not named.
Just Run It Out. Hike It Out. Walk It Out. Bike It Out.
Thanksgiving Day sees a lot of activity: cooking, cleaning, family gatherings, and exercise.
Yes, it never...well...exercise should never escape us!
On Thanksgiving Day, amid all of its natural and normal flavors, give thanks to the fact that you have a body that moves. Amid all of the deadlines, take some time to get out and run, walk, or bike. Do it in groups. Do it alone. Just play! It feels great to play before your big meal, for it helps with digestion. Your serotonin and endorphin levels will be kicking on Thanksgiving Day.
In case you would like to get everything started before the holiday or take everything in after the holiday, I am providing you with turkey trot links to the following metropolitan areas that you may be in the next month:
Walk, run, hike, or bike as you will.
Aging
I understand that with normal aging comes aches and pains and crepitus and stiffness. Or, is it that with aches and pains and crepitus and stiffness comes normal aging?
I don't advocate pushing through joint pain or radiating pain. Those two types of pain need relief. I do strongly advocate pushing through "pain" that may arise from just being tired (sort of like playing three overtimes). A solidly good part of exercise is that your muscles are ripping in order to be built up. It is not all peaches and cream, so If it were, exercise would be called "Lounging on the beach and soaking in the sun".
I also certainly do not advocate for seizing exercise just because someone has reached a particular age. Let's take, for instance, Ernestine Shepherd, a 73 year old grandmother and bodybuilder in Baltimore and whose story is chronicled in the article "Body Building Grandma Ernestine Shepherd Bench Presses, Runs Marathons at 73". (I also posted a link on the facebook page earlier this year)...She did not quit.
So, why is it that aging is as a way to fall back? It's a question with many different subjective answers. Aging is a privilege because you get to learn more about the wisdom of your mind, body, and your soul.
Oh, do not think that I am solely referring to older adults and the elderly in terms of aging. Many of the young and versatile tend to be culprits to falling back on general health, fitness, and wellness. But, present is the potential to functionally improve.
Note: I never said you had to run a marathon. Heck,I just watch them!
Be well,
Be well,
Derek
HAHPN - November #1 2010
- Setting Up a Perimeter
- No Ordinary Miner
- Holiday Aspirations
I enjoy the show Manhunters: Fugitive Task Force...as seen on hulu.com
There is something about U.S. Marshall's and their unique ability to track down virtually anyone and capture them when the fugitive least expects it. They go above and beyond to achieve their goal, whether they chase someone for 24 hours or fly to another state or U.S. Territory. Their years of training and experience are manifested through the execution of their tactics. Their plan to capture fugitives is just plain relentless!
The same attitude that these U.S. Marshall's possess towards their profession is the same attitude that is needed in achieving and in approaching health and fitness goals. The Marshall's do not typically struggle with making a decision because they have great communication. When one of them says they will do something, they do it. When there is a change of plans, they conform. In other words, procrastination, reneging, and indecisiveness arrive at a cost to the U.S. Marshall's, who cannot waste time.
But, these three characteristics are sometimes our biggest culprits. I admit that I have experienced each of these qualities at some point...but the willingness to change is open.
Too many times, as individuals, a perimeter is not set up. That is, the procedure to plan, act, and to maintain goal(s) slips away because a distraction arises. It is also indicative of a plan and thought process that is organized loosely. Whether you are starting to workout for the first time, starting marathon training, changing your diet, waking up earlier, or changing some other health habit remember to attack it. Don't go half-in or all-in with enthusiasm and pull out abruptly - once you have met the action phase the will to stop should diminish.
Set up your own task force. Yes, it is hard times for a lot of people; but there are ways to functionally progress.
No Ordinary Miner
I just learned today that one of the Chilean miners, Edison Pena, who was rescued last month wants to run the New York City Marathon. Talk about battling. First, he is trapped for 70 days and now he will endure one of the most physically demanding challenges. Well, you know what? Great for him!
I think it's phenomenal that Mr. Pena wants to conquer the NYC Marathon. Really? How many of us, after spending 70 days underground, would want to run a marathon less than one month after being rescued? I know he practiced while trapped, but I respect his superior contemplation on this matter.
Holiday Aspirations
The ability to train individuals both in the Greater Boston Area and the DC Metro Area is a goal that I would like to achieve, but it will take a lot of effort.
The holidays are a time in which training is feasible per location. However, a lot of creativity must be involved. I'm not promising anything right now as far as creative holiday training, but the matching possibilities are in arrangement.
Be well,
Derek
www.teempt.com
HAHPN - October #3 2010 - Athlete Interaction
- You are an Athlete in Focus
- Mirroring - Objects are Closer Than They Appear
- Extra Postings
You are an Athlete in Focus
October is a month in which a lot of new changes occur: The MLB Playoffs begin. The NHL and NBA regular seasons ignite. The NFL season is in full swing. A host of college and high school sports begin and are mid-season, depending on where you live.
Then, arrives your functional lifestyle:
The economy is tumultuous for many individuals. School tuition rates continue to increase. Different foods, cars, and toys are being re-called. Just...just let out your rebel yell!
Well, as I'll briefly hint on in this section, your time to deal with and operate at an optimal level with all of these changes defines why you are developmentally-athletic or are a developmental-athlete. You may face trials and tribulations in one area that ultimately interfere with your health and fitness as well as your ability to multi-task. An athlete, especially a professional one, tends to endure these same experiences at a higher level and in the spotlight. Oops, I almost forgot to put in the statistic that pros make a heck of a lot more money.
Then, arrives your functional lifestyle:
The economy is tumultuous for many individuals. School tuition rates continue to increase. Different foods, cars, and toys are being re-called. Just...just let out your rebel yell!
Well, as I'll briefly hint on in this section, your time to deal with and operate at an optimal level with all of these changes defines why you are developmentally-athletic or are a developmental-athlete. You may face trials and tribulations in one area that ultimately interfere with your health and fitness as well as your ability to multi-task. An athlete, especially a professional one, tends to endure these same experiences at a higher level and in the spotlight. Oops, I almost forgot to put in the statistic that pros make a heck of a lot more money.
Mirroring
You, the adult, parent, and recreational runner, are like an athlete whether you play a sport or not or believe that you are capable of being like an athlete. Here's the deal: from a strength and conditioning perspective the athlete should be in top shape if he/she is in the mid-season of a sport. For the non-athlete, this [notion] holds true if you consider the beginning of the school year to be a new change, and the end of the year as the playoffs. Hey, why isn't that just like football season? Yup!
The fact is that many of us have different start, middle, and end points so your in-season, regular season, post-season, and pre-season could occur during anytime of the year. This functional structure is true whether you have a certain fitness goal, financial goal (depends on your current financial status too), or wellness goal (i.e., smoking cessation, alcohol cessation, etc.) They are all intertwined.
At some point, you will face easy and difficult points of the year...just like an athlete.
At some point, you will really kick yourself into gear, persevere, and triumph...just like an athlete.
At some point, you will be challenged to conquer a feat...just like an athlete.
Extra Postings
I am placing extra topic postings on the blog site without posting them in emails. This move will help distinguish an e-newsletter from a blog even though most of the topics covered in the email will appear on the blog site.
Be well,
Be well,
Derek
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