Focus SHIFT on Fitness
When most people think of exercise, they picture hours spent in the gym on machines, lifting weights, or following the latest fitness trends. But fitness isn't just about what happens inside the gym; it's about how it translates to life outside the gym. Whether hiking a scenic trail, dancing at a friend's wedding, or simply keeping up with your kids at the park, staying active equips you to live fully and embrace the joys of everyday life.
Let's delve into the world of functional fitness and enjoyable activities that seamlessly integrate movement into your daily routine. Science and research have already established the numerous physical and mental health benefits of exercise. No one needs to be convinced about that. But what about the sheer joy of life and longevity? Find an activity you genuinely enjoy that engages every joint in your body. Let's make movement a source of fun and playfulness, not a chore. Let's make it a celebration of life and vitality!
To do that, we must shift our focus from sets and reps to adventures and experiences, empowering you to make the most of the world beyond the gym walls. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy weightlifting. I am not saying to stop exercising in a gym atmosphere or strength training format, but including physical activity in our lives can also benefit our health and joy! What activities do you enjoy? How can you incorporate them into your daily, weekly, or monthly routine? Who can you share these experiences with? It doesn't have to be complicated or expensive, it just needs to be something you love. Remember, exercise can be fluid; as you change, your desire for different activities may also change, which is a great way to stretch out of your comfort zone. You're in control of your fitness journey, and that's not just a statement. That’s a powerful truth.
One of my favorite things to hear from clients is a story of an activity or event they experienced with friends and family. They noticed how easy it was, how it didn't cause them pain, or that they could participate and not get overly winded when others were struggling—all because of the functional fitness training we had done together! This training focuses on improving strength, flexibility, and endurance for everyday activities. Gardening with no back or knee pain, hiking without taking breaks, and dancing easily. Say yes to dancing!
In my journey, the more I focused on keeping my joints healthy and strong, the more I found joy in my life outside the gym. I noticed that many non-exercisers often complain about the things that hurt them or the things they love but can no longer do. This realization further fueled my commitment to an active lifestyle.
I took my focus off of exercising solely to achieve a particular body shape or size, which is often driven by societal standards or the desire to impress others. Instead, I focused on how exercise made me feel and the functional benefits it brought to my life, becoming more motivated to exercise! Remember, your worth is not determined by your appearance or fitness level. You are valuable and worthy just as you are. Comparison is the thief of joy, which has become a toxic part of the fitness industry. Pain and discomfort are also joy suckers! So, I encourage you to exercise to be your healthiest self and enjoy your best life with the people you love, pain-free and with ease!
Don't be afraid to start! The first step is often the hardest, but it's also the most important. I believe in you! You've got this, and I'm here to support you every step of the way!
