If you follow me on social media, you may have seen this post.
I got a little push back on it, so I thought I clarify.
One woman said this is actually one of her favorite phrases. Normally, I would see that as proof of the toxic culture laced throughout much of the fitness industry. A high percentage of the time when the phrase, "no pain, no gain," is used it reflects the belief that if a person isn't willing to push their body to a given point, they simply aren't committed enough to physical progress. This phrase often leads to not listening to our body and what it actually needs. It can instill a belief that our body is something to be fought against for its own good. It frequently sets up an adversarial relationship between our brain and our body.
When, "no pain, no gain," is used it usually implies that willpower is what is lacking. It can easily lead to a person bullying themselves and overriding what is best for their body in the long run, in trade for the more immediate gratification of a few extra reps, a few more pounds lifted, a longer distance covered, or faster time achieved. It can lead to living in daily physical pain, which eventually gets old and kills the desire for exercise.
Don't get me wrong. I realize that high level athletes sometimes need to trade immediate physical health for short-term gains. I can't think of a single professional athlete who hasn't dealt with sport related injury along their path. But, how many of us compete at that level compared to how many of us are willing to risk damage to our mental or physical health in the name of not being a wimp?
I'm also all for pushing and stretching our capabilities in all areas of our lives. Personal growth is vital. However, I've also learned how critical balance is for our physical, mental, emotional, and even spiritual well-being. "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven." (Ecclesiastes 3:1) Sometimes pain is something to be pushed through and sometimes it's our cue to stop.
Sayings like, "No pain, no gain," too often teach us not to consider alternatives.
The woman I mentioned above is one of the most mentally stable people I know and likely can keep this phrase as one of her favorites without damaging herself physically or mentally, which is awesome. But I'm sure she's in the minority.
What are your thoughts about this saying?
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