The Truth Behind Impressive Movement Skills:AKA, Why the “Boring Work” Matters
By: Melanie Lofgren
You’ve seen them before— those movements that seem to defy gravity or control. The weird, wild stuff that goes viral and makes you pause mid-scroll like—“Wow, I wish I could do that!” You’ve seen them at the studio too: we trainers show them off from time to time, and then say, "Now, don't do this," but then go and do it ourselves...
Yea. A flawless pistol squat. An L-sit pull-up. A strong inversion or an elegant balance pose. The movements that showcase impressive control, strength, and creativity.
They look effortless. But the reality behind them is anything but.
The truth is, I can do those things because I spend a ridiculous amount of time doing the boring drills and exercises no one posts about. There is a lot more going on behind the scenes.
It's the work that’s usually slow, detailed, and not particularly glamorous. All those Controlled Articular Rotations (CARs), the wrist and finger prep, tedious mobility drills, and the tiny stability exercises we put into your individual work & program....yea that’s the stuff. The ones that feel small, annoying, or even irrelevant... The boring stuff is exactly what builds the foundation for powerful, skillful movement, and reliable strength that will take you well into your 90’s.
Before I ever held a side crow, I was training wrist stability and strength through full ranges of motion. Before I could lift heavy with confidence, I spent time building deep hip and core stability. And before I could perform any of the more complex skills, like L-sit pull-ups, pistol squats, and push-ups on pilates balls.... I spent months strengthening all the smaller supporting joints and building mobility where it mattered.
But perhaps most importantly, when I did practice the actual skill… I failed. I failed over and over and over, again and again. What often gets missed is that this type of movement doesn’t come from ego. It comes from preparation and from building trust in your body & in the process by training intentionally, thoughtfully, and patiently. This is the work that allows your body to perform, not just for a moment, but consistently, safely, and with longevity in mind.
So if you’re working toward a big movement goal– whether it be a push-up on your toes, an unassisted deadhang, a one-handed handstand, or the splits– do not overlook the quiet strength of the foundational work. It may not feel exciting in the moment, but it’s the key to unlocking what’s possible. Skipping the boring stuff only means delaying the progress (and this goes for injury recovery as well). So remember, the cool shit only works because of the steady, behind-the-scenes work that makes the glory stuff possible.
And you, yes, you— can absolutely do it too!
Melanie
ISSA Personal Trainer & Certified Nutrition Coach
I went from hating working out to my life and career goals revolving around fitness!
My journey began when I was at rock bottom. I was severely depressed, broke, and losing hope. I had been through 4 years of continuous sexual traumas while living in a community that was not welcoming of my queer identity.
I had gotten to the point where I knew if I didn’t take action, someone else would have to step in to care for me. So, I found a fun way to work out that kept me accountable. I quickly learned that movement was essential to help me overcome my PTSD, anxiety, and depression. It remains one of the primary ways I manage my mental health today.
Through moving my body, I gained confidence, courage, and strength (mental & physical). I learned how to love myself and my body for the first time. Now I want to pass along all that I have learned and help others to know the strength and resiliency they possess as well!