Originally Posted by
Shiva Kaul
Dr. Sullivan points out that both training and maintenance are thoughtful ways to optimize your long-term circumstances. However, I think Rip is correct to distinguish training from maintenance.
A good technical analogy for maintenance is optimal control. In this problem, you manipulate control inputs (the rudders of an aircraft, the fan of an air conditioner, or the training variables of a strength program) to keep the system close to a reference point (due north, 62 F, or 405 rack pull) while it is disturbed by external forces (air, sun, or the problems of aging).