The training programs, nutrition guidance, and supporting materials provided by The Struggle Standard LLC — including ETR, CHT, The Struggle Standard Test, athlete dossiers, nutrition guides, and any sample materials — are intended for general informational and educational purposes only. They are not medical advice, not individualized prescriptions, and not a substitute for evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional.
01Consult Your Physician First
Before starting any program, obtain a thorough medical evaluation from a qualified physician — particularly if you are over 35, have a personal or family history of cardiovascular disease, have any existing injury or medical condition, are pregnant or postpartum, are recovering from surgery, are taking prescription medication, or have not exercised vigorously in the past 12 months.
02These Programs Are Intense
CHT prescribes near-maximal and maximal resistance training. ETR and the Test require sustained, demanding physical effort. The operating instruction Suffer Forward™ refers to disciplined adherence to programmed training — it does not mean ignoring pain, injury, illness, or medical warning signs.
03Stop and Seek Medical Attention If You Experience
- Chest pain, pressure, tightness, or unusual shortness of breath.
- Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting.
- Severe or sharp musculoskeletal pain, especially in the spine, joints, or chest.
- Dark, cola-colored, or reduced urine output, particularly with muscle pain or swelling — possible signs of rhabdomyolysis.
- Persistent nausea, headache, confusion, or vision changes.
- Any symptom you suspect may indicate injury or a medical event.
04Nutrition Guidance Is Illustrative, Not Prescriptive
Any nutritional ranges, caloric targets, macronutrient splits, or metabolic-rate multipliers in our materials reflect general sports-nutrition ranges and the author's own training context. They are not individualized medical nutrition therapy.
They are not appropriate without modification for athletes who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a history of disordered eating, have diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or any other condition affecting metabolism, or are otherwise under medical dietary management. Work with a registered dietitian for individualized recommendations.
05You Are Responsible for Scaling
The programs are templates. You are solely responsible for determining whether any particular session, movement, load, or volume is appropriate for you on any given day. Scale, substitute, or skip work as needed.