Fitness isn’t easy. Some days, you feel unstoppable—like you're making insane progress. Other days? It feels like all your effort isn’t even worth it.
Progress isn’t linear. And sometimes, it’s invisible.
This is especially true in Calisthenics…
My 6-Year Throwback: The Planche Struggle
I still remember when I first started training for the Planche.
(Me start of 2018: Could not hold Straddle Planche)
For weeks, I was stuck at the same progression. Some days, it even felt like I was getting weaker. My mind was filled with doubts:
❌ “Maybe this skill isn’t for everyone.”
❌ “Maybe you need freak genetics or an elite coach to get this.”
❌ “Maybe I should just move on to another skill.”
I almost believed those thoughts…
But then I adjusted. I researched. I experimented. And most importantly, I showed up—again and again.
(Me Dec 2018: Held for a solid 2 second, not ideal form)
Then one day, progress shot up. And I felt pure adrenaline. It becomes an addiction to continue. After that, everything became easier. I WANTED to train the Planche again. I became super OBSESSED with the Planche.
Your First Checkpoint
Once you have hit your first checkpoint, the reality sinks in - what you're doing works and you are actually winning. Your efforts have paid off and your goal does not seem impossible.
The fact is that, in our heads, we know that we have the potential to achieve the most impossible of tasks. But in our "hearts" we cannot picture it yet. Our identity is not aligned with our goals. Hence, this first "Win" is super important. When it finally clicks, you don't need motivation anymore. It becomes an obsession to keep going and you start seeing more results.
This creates a self-sustaining engine of growth that pushes you to the finish line. But this first checkpoint might be more elusive than you think.
The Reality of Progress: It’s Not a Straight Line
Like I said earlier. On your journey, progress isn’t a smooth line upwards. It’s more of a curve with ups and downs but ultimately, the trend is one of improvement towards your goals.
Hence, you cannot be swayed to give up at the first sign of decline or regress. Keep going until you hit that first checkpoint.
Here are 3 things to complement this mindset:
✅ Avoid injury – Take warm-ups and cooldowns seriously.
✅ Plan your rest days – Recovery is where growth happens.
✅ Master the fundamentals – Strength vs. endurance, form, and muscle engagement all matter.
⚡ Good news? I’ve got you covered on the fundamentals. Stay tuned!
Final Words: Don't Quit Too Soon
You gotta be patient and persistent. Calisthenics will teach you these things. The same is true in whatever goals you have in your life. Things don’t always go your way.
(Me now: Much better form, with more muscle)
But here’s the thing—you never know if you’re just one step away from a breakthrough.
If you quit too soon, you might be throwing in the towel right before you achieve something great.
So be patient. Be persistent. And keep going.
Your future self will thank you.