The one exercise every Spartan should be doing is…
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 | | In today's edition, Joe shares: - How Freedom is a Responsibility
- Tips for the Farmer's Walk
- Why You Should Lead by Example
| | | | Spartans!
One summer, my family and I went on a camping trip for July 4th. I brought a big box of fireworks that I purchased back home in Queens.
During the holiday, my neighborhood was known for selling volumes of fireworks. I got sucked into making money with fireworks at a young age, learning the ropes of business in the most hands-on way possible.
But tonight, I was eager to show off my collection.
My cousin pitched my aunt's large tent, which would be our base of operations.
As the sun set and the excitement grew, I decided it was time for the grand display.
Standing inside the tent, I lit a sparkler to start the show.
You can probably guess where this is headed…
Things went south, fast.
My sparkler accidentally caught the corner of the box of fireworks below it. In an instant, the whole box ignited, creating a chaotic explosion of colors and sounds inside the tent.
Fireworks shot everywhere, my aunt's tent was up in flames, and everyone ran for cover.
We managed to put out the fire, but the tent was no more.
I learned a few hard lessons that night about safety, responsibility, and life's unpredictable nature.
But more than that, I learned about independence.
On the surface, freedom looks like we have the power to do what we want with no regard for others.
But freedom is actually about taking ownership of your actions, dealing with the consequences, and learning from your mistakes. That's what July 4th is about for me. It's a reminder that true independence comes with responsibility.
With freedom, we also must stand on our own two feet, make our own decisions, and own the outcomes, good or bad.
This Independence Day, light those fireworks — but don't forget to keep a bucket of water close by.
Here's to The Hard Way!
Joe | | | ONE POWERFUL MOVE | There's one move every Spartan should add to their training regime: The Farmer's Walk. The move is so simple, you'll wonder if it works: Grab a pair of heavy dumbbells or kettlebells, one in each hand, and walk.
You'll quickly see why the farmer's walk is one of the best exercises you can do to improve your grip strength, posture, core strength, and stability. Here are some tips for perfect form: - Stand up straight, even as the weights try to pull you down.
- Keep your core tight and shoulder blades back which will help you achieve good posture.
- Use your forearms to keep the dumbbells from tilting downwards.
- Check-in consistently with your body and adjust your form as you walk.
Walk as far as you can, rest, and repeat. Push yourself, and increase the weight over time. When you're ready to switch it up, try a single-arm walk. | | | | You Ask, Joe Answers | Q: Hey Joe, How do we empower others to lead when they lack confidence and don't take initiative or be proactive?
- Jeff W
A: Hey Jeff, You lead by example. Show them how it's done. Don't just tell them to step up — demonstrate what stepping up looks like. Take them under your wing, give them responsibilities, and hold them accountable. Praise their successes, no matter how small, and provide constructive feedback on their failures. Encourage them to make decisions and support them, even if they screw up. Leadership isn't just taught; it's caught. They need to see it in action and feel the trust you place in them.
Aroo!
Question for Joe? Want to tell him what you think of The Hard Way? Email him at thehardway@spartan.com. | | | | They Said It | | "I'm a success today because I had a friend who believed in me and I didn't have the heart to let him down." | | – Abraham Lincoln | | | BREAK THE WORLD JUMPING JACKS RECORD |  | Ready to make history, Spartans? It's time to gear up and break the World Jumping Jacks Record on July 12.
In honor of "The Godfather of Fitness" Jack LaLanne and to celebrate fitness icon Elaine LaLanne's 98th birthday, thousands of Spartans worldwide will unite to smash the record for "Most People Performing Jumping Jacks Simultaneously".
Join the "Jack LaLanne Jumping Jacks Challenge" on July 12 at 1 pm PST. Over 5,000 fitness enthusiasts will crush 98 Jumping Jacks together to raise funds for the National Fitness Foundation.
This is a free virtual event and for those in LA, you can participate in person at the LA Convention Center. Reserve your spot and find more details here. | | | The Hard Way Podcast | | | "Africa is a very interesting phenomenon. The demand from tourists is so high that the prices per night are significantly higher compared to the capital investment that you need to buy the property." | | | | | | Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up here. | | | WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THIS NEWSLETTER? | | | | | |
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