It's a simple question. The answer can say a lot about your training. In the scope of your training, your definition of why becomes utmost important. Because to answer the first question, you must first ask yourself a more important question.
"Why are you training?"
When the Why is your outline you can fill in with smart programming your how and when.
Your why has to be very important to you. I was reading through a very informative article on how our brains are wired. One of the more interesting facts was how our brain views things like exercise. If you hate something, for example, getting up in the morning to go for a run, because you think you should, doesn't elicit the same health benefits as someone that loves the morning and loves running.
Essentially, to the brain, your "I have to" isn't a voluntary action any longer. You don't get the same pleasure neurotransmitters release. It's just another stress. It's the reason finding the why must be examined and then back filled in with ways that are both enjoyable and goal centered.
If your goal is weight loss and you hate running, but this is your method you have chosen, chances are this isn't a habit that will probably stick. Make sure weight loss is your real goal. Often, when I ask why weight loss to clients, they just want to feel better. Sometimes this comes from weight loss, sometimes not. Not feeling well can come from many varied reasons, not just weight loss. Getting there can be just as varied in the methods. Find a method you enjoy. I personally dislike long distance running, but really enjoy jumping rope and rucking.
My training goals are to have better feeling joints. I hired a coach to help me attempt to get my elbows better. I like having a 2x bodyweight deadlift. That is really not that much when comparing to anyone that actually lifts to compete in any strength pursuit, but for me, that is just fine. I want to be in good enough cardio to ride my bike for enjoyment and not be tired. We have awesome mountain bike trails in West Michigan.
One of my favorite (almost all) are just to think up workouts and then do them. They usually have a theme to them that can tie back into my big picture goals. This in itself is a goal. To be healthy an fit enough to do what I dream of doing.
Some days its 20 prowler pushes on the minute. Some days its just punching the heavy bag paired with ring pull ups. These are also the most enjoyable to me. Think of something and go do it. These are probably also producing the most pleasurable neurotransmitter release.
So did I get better today. By the definition of my goals, I did some things to work on my elbow and hip health. So yes. I did a bunch of pull ups at the park with my kid, followed by lunge position depth drops. Just something I was playing around with. So yea...I got better today.
Will this type of unstructured training lead to anything big. No. But, you must understand that isn't the goal currently. When you define your training, you can define your method. Always know you are on the right path if you can answer the question with a yes.
"Did I get better today?"
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