Let me start by saying I LOVE training. I will also say I LOVED the time I spent powerlifting. Maybe you noticed the past tense on that last sentence. I still love the sport, but I do not want to put into powerlifting what it requires to be your best.

I now lead a very satisfying life with many interests outside of the gym. Regardless what anyone says, that balance is not possible if you are trying to reach your optimal strength level. Ironically, I'm not talking about the time spent in the gym either.

I probably spend as much time in the gym now as I did when competing on an elite level. I still push myself to the limit on intensity with training. The difference is really on what happens outside of the gym. When at my top level, I was worthless at home. I swear, just getting off the couch seemed daunting.

When I wasn't at work or training, my only goal was to be ready for my next lifting session. Whether it was eating, sleeping, or working on recovery, they all took precedents in my life. Activities, vacations, social engagements all took a distant second place in getting ready for my next meet.

I see a lot of powerlifters out there desperate to be noticed. Wanting to be strong. Dying to be sponsored. Hoping to get just one more like on social media. But are you really committed to powerlifting? Because if you are, there's not much room for anything else. Just a little powerlifting public service announcement.