Chapter 177:
Learning the Ropes
Megan’s POV:
The gym was in its usual hubbub. Today, though, was special. I was going to take on a new challenge that Max had been insisting I learn for quite a while by now-high-level techniques. He wanted me to increase my arsenal of skills, and today was the day I was ready to dive headfirst into it.
I walked into the gym, noting Max was already there, setting up some equipment. He looked up and nodded toward me. “Morning, Megan. Ready for today’s lesson?”
“Morning, Max,” I replied, walking over. “Absolutely. What are we working on today?”
Max motioned at the line of agility ladders and resistance bands that lay in front of us. “Today, we’re going to work on speed and footwork. These drills are going to be hard, but they’ll make you faster and more agile.”
I raised an eyebrow, trying to cover how nervous I really was. “Intense? Sounds like a challenge.
Max grinned. “Definitely. But you’re up for it. Besides, you have been doing great so far. Just remember to keep your head on straight.”
The doors opened and Josh strode in, his gym bag hanging over his shoulder. I waved. “Hey, Josh! Glad you could make it.”
Josh waved his hand in a casual gesture. “Hey, Megan. Thought I’d stop by again, check things out. Max didn’t give me much of an update, but here to help if you need it.”
Max smiled. “Well, you’re right on time. I was just setting up some new drills. You could be a good source of suggestions.
Josh loped over, shouldering his bag. “Awesome. I’ve been practicing a few techniques that might complement what Max has in store.”
Max nodded. “Great, let’s get started then.”
We then proceeded to the agility ladders. Max ran a couple of footwork drills, sharp and well done. “These drills are for you to enhance your speed and coordination. The key is to stay light on your feet and keep fluid movements.”
I nodded, watching intently. “Got it. Let’s give it a shot.”.
I launched into the first drill, working on foot placement and speed. Max and Josh watched, then critiqued. “Good pace, but remember to keep your knees slightly bent,” Max suggested. “That’ll help with your balance.”
Josh added, “And don’t forget to use your arms to drive your movement. It’ll give you more momentum.
I changed my technique, feeling the burn in my legs. “Definitely tougher than I expected, eh?”
Max smiled. “It should be. These drills are meant to push you out of your comfort zone. Keep going.”
I lay there a couple rounds later, panting, but satisfied. “How did I do?” I panted.
Josh gave me a thumb-up. “You’re getting better. Just hang in there and you will be doing it.”
Max nodded in agreement. “Yeah, you’re doing great. Now, let’s do the resistance bands.”
We moved into the resistance bands, which were all set up for exercises in strength and agility. Max showed me how I could work these bands for increased power and explosiveness: “These bands will build up strength in your legs and core necessary for quick movements around the ring.”
I strapped the bands onto my legs, beginning to work on the exercises, trying to be conscious of my form. Josh ambled over, offering more tips. “Remember to keep your core engaged and your movements controlled. It’ll make a big difference.”
Max nodded in approval. “Exactly. And don’t be afraid to really challenge yourself. The resistance will, but that’s the point.”
I felt the muscles straining, yet growing stronger with each exercise. “This definitely is intense,” I said, laughing through the effort.
Josh grinned. “That’s the idea. You’re building up endurance and strength. All part of the process.”
Max looked at his watch and then back at me. “All right, let’s wrap up with some cool-down stretches. You deserve it.
We then headed to the stretching area, and I slowly eased into the stretch to relax my already sore muscles. Josh sat beside me with a friendly face. “How are you feeling?”
“Tired but good,” I admitted. “The drills are really hard, but I feel a difference already.”
Josh nodded. “That is what we work towards. You are really pushing yourself beyond those limits and expanding your skills. It’ll pay off in the long run.
Max stretched out beside me, rolling onto his side to face me. “Absolutely. And remember, it’s not just the physical strength. You have to be mentally tough, too. You’ve got to keep your focus, your determination.”
I blew out a relieved breath. “Thanks for the encouragement. I needed that.”
Josh laughed. “No sweat. It’s been awesome watching you improve. Just keep up the hard work.”
Max chimed in, “Yeah, and don’t forget to enjoy it. That’s part of the journey.”
As we cleaned up, I was refreshed and ready to begin the rest of the project. The encouragement and tips from Max and Josh were very invaluable; I appreciated their time. “Thanks for today,” I said toward them both.
Max smiled. “Anytime. You’re doing great. Keep it up.”
Josh nodded. “Definitely. I’ll be around to check in again soon.”
With that, we packed our stuff and left the gym. Today had been a tough day in training, but boy, I was satisfied.