Failure. It’s a concept that most of us avoid. Making mistakes, not completing a task or project as well as we wanted, yelling at our kids (#parentfail), or not even trying something new because we fear the F word.This post focuses on failure in the fitness world, but the message rings true for life. We aren’t perfect; we are human. When we fail, it’s an opportunity to do better the next time, to understand what went wrong, or to simply recognize that you’re not perfect and that you’ll keep trying.At Ascend, we strive for a better version of ourselves both on and off the bike. I believe that through physical challenges, we gain the mental fortitude to believe in ourselves. We learn that we can push beyond our perceived limitations, to accept a challenge, and that it takes time and ongoing effort to see improvement.A good friend of mine and client of Ascend said the other day, “But I’m competitive. I don’t like not being able to do something that others in the room can.”Can I understand his frustration? Of course. My answer? “You keep trying. What’s the point of only doing things where you’re comfortable and confident? You’ll plateau...you won’t get stronger.”You approach this challenge on the bike with determination. You hold a standing run for as long as you can. You add more resistance. You pick up a heavier med ball. You shoot for one more squat. You push to your peak. And then you try again.The beauty in fitness is that failure progresses us to success. It’s proven science. Each time we push our limit, we get a little stronger: a longer sprint, more resistance on a climb, one or two more reps in Ascend Underground. Whatever you’re working on, don’t give up. Push to that place where you feel uncomfortable, and know that it’s worth it. Know the results are coming.Training smart with experienced and qualified coaches allows you to push to your point of failure (what we at Ascend call your Peak) without pushing to a place where it hurts or risks injury. It’s increasing weight or resistance while maintaining good form, it’s recognizing when you may need a modification to complete the movement safely, and it’s taking your progression one rep and one class at a time. You improve by failing and continuing to try and try again.Our coaches in Ascend Underground will help you modify and progress your strength training through thoughtfully designed, purposeful formats. In Ascend Cycle, our spin program is based on how you as an individual feel, rather than on an arbitrary resistance or gear generalized for the class. We are here to challenge you while using safe and effective exercise principles in a small group setting.So here’s my pep talk. You’re stronger than you think. You can handle more than you know. Own the challenge. Try something new. We’re here to support you and cheer you on. It’s how we Ascend.