Welcome to The Strength Temple Learning & Insights. All our client services are completely discrete and bespoke. That said we want to deliver useful and valuable content to the wider community interested in reaching their full potential. This section delivers articles based on our
#TST7PILLARS
philosophy of Hydration, Flexibility, Movement, Nutrition, Environment, Breath & Mindfulness promoting overall wellness and empowering habit formation.
Lead from the front and do it in style
During the years playing rugby week in week out, endless drills and lifting/throwing big weights around, I realise now more than ever that the key to my physical and mental development primarily depended on 3 things.. 1) What I put in my body (Nutrition) - If I felt energetic, I would work harder than ever. 2) The way I was training my body - If I felt strong and fast, I was unstoppable. 3) Which kit was being used - If I trusted the equipment and kit I was using, I was confident I had the edge to take anyone on. I've pulled together my current goto training shoe options for you. I've tested them to destruction so you don't have to. Here's my favourites.....
During the years playing rugby week in week out, endless drills and lifting/throwing big weights around, I realise now more than ever that the key to my physical and mental development primarily depended on 3 things..
1) What I put in my body (Nutrition) - If I felt energetic, I would work harder than ever.
2) The way I was training my body - If I felt strong and fast, I was unstoppable.
3) Which kit was being used - If I trusted the equipment and kit I was using, I was confident I had the edge to take anyone on.
Back when I had athletics training and rugby games every week, I’d never really put too much thought into the kit I was wearing and how many calories I was consuming/burning, pretty sure I was no where near the 8% body fat I am now. (I have chubby pictures on my Instagram to prove this fact).
Anyway my point is, how you ‘feel’ mentally and physically when you compete or simply when you’re out and about moving around is the difference between winning and losing or feeling confident.
There’s so much information out there, all claiming to be ‘the best’ it often leaves you confused and lost on what may be right.
Here are a few of my favourite things… ‘The Trainer Game'
I’m a bit of a 'sneaker head’ so when it comes to having something on my feet, I like to get hold of something that plays the part and also looks sharp. I’m fortunate and very proud to be working with @NewBalanceUK at a time when they are really at the top the game. Getting access to the hottest kit on the market and putting it to the test not only for my own personal gain, but to provide you guys with the knowledge that can help you find the right tools for your fitness goals. http://www.newbalance.co.uk/
At the end of the day, everyone's body shape is a little different and when it comes to our precious feet, we need to try out and ‘feel’-out what’s right so we can get the best from our purchases right?
These days you don’t have to spend a fortune to get the best feel and performance, the level of quality and technology is changing the game and constantly evolving. Be ahead of the curve.
Check out my top picks...
I really hope this helps you get started and off on the right track (pun accidental). Remember to create your own style and find whats right for you.
Be safe out there, remember to take care of your precious body and be the best version of yourself.
Have a beautiful day.
Big love always.
Richie
New Balance "You Are Your Toughest Opponent"
The Strength Temple are super pumped to be working with New Balance! Our Director Richie Norton is one of a select team of New Balance Ambassadors running with their latest campaign which explores how we are our own toughest opponents. This subject is close to our hearts and Richie has been working hard to bring hints and tips on peak performance with the New Balance team to take your training and performance to the next level. In this article Richie talks about how he's feeling about the Ambassador role and what to expect as the campaign evolves. Get involved! #iamthecompetition
Richie Norton: New Balance #iamthecompetition
Hi!
So as some of you may know, I’ve just become an ambassador for New Balance (yes, very cool and I’m absolutely buzzing about it). I grew up competing in Athletics and Rugby, and the thought of being scouted to represent a brand like NewBalance was a dream. Now I’m here, years later, living that dream.
Even though New Balance are making bad ass kit, I'm actually excited to be a part of this brand because of their philosophy. Especially their newest campaign 'You are your toughest opponent'. This campaign is all about the recognition that the toughest competition involves the battles and obstacles that we create ourselves, in our mind and our lives. To me, this campaign is about developing your confidence, becoming the best you can be and excepting you will face challenges and obstacles; once you master your mind, your body can achieve anything.
Over the coming months I’ll be researching the challenges in performance, breaking down the mind games, while also analysing and product testing the awesome New Balance apparel. Luckily for me I pretty much live in training clothes, I now have the best excuse to never ever wear a suit again. (Although I did hear a rumour NB had plans for a sweet tailored dinner jacket)...
With the health and fitness industry booming bigger than ever, even to the ‘trained eye’ it’s a daunting task understanding what to eat, how to balance your day, what exercises are right for you, what equipment you need (if any) and of course what clothing and footwear are required to support you training and lifestyle. This is where I come in.
This project with NewBalance is something I can relate to in many ways, on a personal level and as a professional. I've battled with career ending injuries, walked some dark paths and been on a wild journey before finding my way here. I’m grateful for the challenges that have given me so much insight into the struggle so many go through; how we grow from this always makes us stronger. I’m now finally understanding all my strengths (and weaknesses), following my passion and applying the knowledge I’ve developed from the many lessons getting here. I now hope to share this you.
Over the next few months I’ll be working alongside @newbalanceuk, @menshealth and @runnersworld on a campaign all about understanding the power of the mind in performance and how your biggest opponent is YOU! Managing your expectations, getting the best out of your body, improving your health, pushing past your limits, exploring new challenges and reaching your highest potential. Mastering your mind is the key to it all.
If there’s anything you’d like me to research please let me know, I’ll pull it all apart!
This is our time to shine.
Oh - and here's a gift from New Balance: Limited time: 15% off if you subscribe via the link below....
New Balance 15% off subscription
Richie Norton #iamthecompetition
Here's a little video message from me on the power of the mind in performance.