We often look on at athletes who achieve amazing things in their respective sports with a genuine sense of bemusement as to how they can do seemingly impossible things. But there's no magic fairy dust at work here. The reality is that these athletes work incredibly hard to earn their rewards. Anyone can be born with ability but moulding yourself into an unbeatable machine all comes down to the resolve of the individual.
And here are five athletes who have what it takes to go the distance
Usain Bolt - Sprinter
This 4 minute video documents Usain Bolt's training ahead of the Bejing Olmpics in which he won two gold medals in the 100m and 200m events. Along with images of Bolt's gym session, this clip includes comments from his coach Glen Mills who emphasises the impressive sense of focus that Bolt possesses. Interestingly, Bolt splits his training between the track and grass surfaces to avoid developing problems with his shins.
LeBron James - NBA Player
After spending four seasons with the Miami Heat, LeBron James returned to the Cleveland Cavaliers last year and this video shows the diverse range of exercises the Ohio native incorporates into his regime to keep one step ahead of the competition.
Mo Farah - Long Distance Runner
He's the current 10,000m and 5,000m Olympic champion and this video explains exactly why. Mo Farah has been wrapped in doping allegations this summer but there is no disputing the hours of training he expends in his pursuit of glory. Pay particular attention to 3.11 - 5.01 where he obliterates the British record for the 10,000m
Karl Lacey - Donegal Footballer
They finally won the All-Ireland in 2012 and Karl Lacey was instrumental to the Donegal cause. But this video is actually from the 2011 season which ended in heartbreak for the former Footballer Of The Year when they were undone by Dublin in the All-Ireland semi-final. And if you consider this gruelling early morning gym session, you'll wince thinking about what they must have done to win the All-Ireland in 2012.
Colm Cooper - Kerry Footballer
It was February 2014 and Colm Cooper was in the thick of the action during the All-Ireland club semi-final against Castlebar Mitchels. And shortly after Cooper released a shot off his left foot, an incoming opponent crashed into the Kerry star leaving him in a heap on the ground. Our worst fears were realised when Cooper was diagnosed with a torn cruciate. This evocative documentary highlights the struggles Cooper went through as well as the training he endured to get himself back on the pitch.
