How to Prevent (And Break Free) From Languishing

On the wall of my local gym, where the coaches program training based on how athletes feel, hangs a chart that details RPE, or rate of perceived exertion.

Commonly used in high-performance sport, RPE is a helpful tool to balance effort and recovery. More time in upper zones means more time in lower ones. Stress plus rest equals growth, and not just in sport, but in pretty much…