Tag Personal Training

A Journey to Purpose and Connection through fitness classes

In a world that often pulls us in different directions, the pursuit of purpose, fulfilment, and balance has become more than a fleeting desire – it’s a shared aspiration. 

At the heart of this quest lies the concept of “ikigai,” a term deeply embedded in Japanese culture, encompassing the convergence of four fundamental elements: what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. 

For those unfamiliar with the term, ikigai represents the intricate dance between four essential elements that define our sense of purpose and fulfillment. Imagine the convergence of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for – it’s where your passions, talents, contributions, and livelihood intersect. This delicate balance forms the very core of ikigai, steering individuals toward a life that resonates deeply with their authentic selves.

This notion is far from theoretical; it’s backed by real-world examples, such as the “blue zones” – areas around the world where people consistently live longer and healthier lives. These regions, which include Okinawa in Japan, share common traits like a strong sense of community, active engagement, and the pursuit of ikigai.

Though it might seem unconventional, group fitness classes are surprisingly in harmony with the profound concept of ikigai as they echo the practices of these blue zones, offering not just physical exercise, but also a profound sense of belonging and purpose. Additionally, the blue zones reveal that those who live with a sense of purpose and connection tend to enjoy healthier and longer lives.

By immersing ourselves in group fitness, we tap into the wealth of benefits that a life aligned with ikigai brings. nurturing physical well-being while fostering relationships that extend beyond the gym. The fulfillment derived from overcoming challenges in a supportive environment mirrors the sense of accomplishment intrinsic to the pursuit of ikigai.

Ikigai Unveiled: The Essence of Purpose and Values

“Ikigai” originates from the fusion of two Japanese words: “iki” (life) and “gai” (value). In essence, it signifies the intrinsic value of life . By exploring your ikigai you can craft a life that echoes your passions, values, and talents so that you can make an impact. Everyone’s Ikigai is unique and it can be found in the smallest daily rituals and the biggest parts of your life. 

The Symbiosis of Group Fitness and Ikigai

Group fitness classes might not immediately seem connected to the profound concept of ikigai, but a closer look reveals a remarkable alignment. 

• Connection and Friendship: A fundamental aspect of ikigai is forming meaningful connections. Group fitness classes offer a shared arena where people unite with the common objective of enhancing their physical well-being. Through the camaraderie and encouragement that naturally blossom within these classes, friendships are forged and a sense of belonging blooms – all integral elements of discovering purpose.
  
  
• Physical Well-being: The pursuit of good health is a cornerstone of ikigai. Engaging in group fitness classes is an embodiment of this pursuit, as it cultivates physical fitness and overall well-being. This investment in health translates into a tangible expression of valuing your body – a principle deeply intertwined with ikigai.
  
  
• Mental Well-being: Just as mental wellness is a crucial facet of ikigai, group fitness classes offer a structured outlet for stress relief. The endorphins released during workouts elevate mood and alleviate anxiety. The sense of accomplishment derived from conquering a challenging exercise mirrors the holistic approach of ikigai to well-being.
  
  
• Commitment and Progress: The commitment to regular group fitness classes mirrors the dedication required to unearth one’s ikigai. The incremental strides towards fitness goals mirror the personal growth and self-improvement intrinsic to the journey of ikigai. This commitment underscores the importance of persistence and consistency in the pursuit of purpose.
  

Ultimately, the pursuit of ikigai is a journey toward finding meaning, fulfillment, and balance in our lives. Group fitness classes, offer a surprisingly harmonious path to discovering and embodying our ikigai. Through fostering connections, promoting physical and mental well-being, and instilling commitment, group fitness becomes a tangible means to align with the deeper essence of purpose and values that ikigai represents.

As we lace up our sneakers and join our fellow participants in a shared pursuit of health and vitality, we find ourselves inadvertently walking the path to a life deeply resonant with purpose and joy.

Start your journey today

If you are looking to connect with like-minded locals in a group fitness class in Samford, check out our group fitness classes here.

You can join our 10 week Boxing Fitness Classes on Wednesday mornings at 9.30 am. This program starts on the October 4^th and is sponsored by MBRC’s ‘Healthy and Active Program’.

We also have an ongoing Friday morning 5.30am class

Learn more about ikigai in the award winning book, Ikigai, The Japanese secret to a long and happy life by by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles

Download our editable Find your ikigai activity and reflect on your 4 elements that make up the Ikigai diagram.

Embrace a healthier and more active lifestyle by joining our 8 week fitness boxing classes in Samford, North Brisbane for only $4 a session!

As a sponsored program under Moreton Bay Regional Council’s ‘Healthy and Active’ initiative, these invigorating sessions are set to transform your fitness journey. Join us at John Scott Park in Samford, starting from Wednesday, July 26th at 9:30 am, and experience the dynamic and engaging workouts designed to boost cardiovascular fitness, strength, and coordination.

Why Choose Pure Fitness and Wellbeing’s Fitness Boxing Classes?

Our 45-minute dynamic sessions are perfect for individuals of all fitness levels, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts. The cost-effective price of $4 per class and the new convenient time at 9:30 am during colder weather promote inclusivity, ensuring everyone can participate in regular physical activity and enjoy the benefits.

– 45 min classes to get you energised for your day

– Exercises can be adjusted to accommodate injuries and restrictions.

– No boxing or fitness experience is required.

Fully equipped Fitness Boxing classes to build skills and improve hand-eye coordination. Burn calories, in a fun cardio training session whilst getting lean, toned and energised.

Our classes include boxing-specific exercises to challenge and stretch you regardless of your fitness level so you can see results.

Start your Wednesday mornings the right way to release any stress, frustrations, and pent-up energy so you’re energised for the remainder of the week! 

What to Expect:

Experience the unparalleled joy of connection, laughter, and tension release that our boxing classes offer. Each class promises an engaging and unique workout experience, leaving you invigorated and motivated to achieve your fitness goals.

Join the ‘Healthy and Active Program’

Register now for this 8-week program commencing on July 26th, and take the first step towards a fitter and healthier you!

But wait, there’s more! Another 10-week program starts on October 4th, ensuring ample opportunities to join and make fitness a part of your lifestyle.

Location and Registration Details:

Location: John Scott Park, Samford

Register at: MBRC Healthy and Active 8 Week Fitness Boxing – Samford

Or get in touch if you have any questions here

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to be a part of Moreton Bay’s ‘Healthy and Active Program.’ Grab your gloves and let’s box our way to better fitness and wellbeing together!

What’s better than having a PT to hold you accountable? Having an accountability workout partner!

Studies on habit formation and behaviour change show that having a friend by your side to share the experience with makes you more likely to stick to your commitment and show up and provides opportunities for connection which is known to positively impact mental health, happiness and wellbeing.

When you throw in the endorphins and happy hormones created from your exercise. Your weekly personal training has literally become a solid investment in your physical, emotional and mental health.

Let’s look deeper at the 5 benefits of having an accountability partner when I comes to health and fitness.

The Super Power of having an Accountability Partner

We all know how hard it is to stay committed to exercise, and how easy it is to make excuses and pull out of your morning walk or gym session. Studies show us that we can cancel our own plans with minimal guilt, but knowing that you are letting down a friend … well thats another story. The term accountability partner comes from the idea that you have made a commitment and are therefore accountable for showing up. We are more likely to be loyal and avoid cancelling when we have made a commitment to our accountability partner and follow through on our word.

1. Behavioural change through motivating each other

2. Habit formation by keeping you on track

3. Connection and fun whilst you are being pushed to your limits

4.  Sharing achievement and progress

5. Shared cost of One to One PT session is $90 whilst a ‘Get Fit with a Friend’ session is only $100

Now the last one is a biggie! Not only do you get all the positive benefits mentioned above, but you get that at almost ½ the cost of a 1:1 Personal Training session ($50 each for a 45 min session) in your home or mine.

Book a complimentary fitness consultation where we review your goals, what has worked in the past and what hasn’t, your schedule, eating habits and stressors.

I then create a program that allows you both to achieve your personal goals whilst working together.

Experience the power of an accountability partner en masse by joining our group fitness classes in John Scott Park, Samford on Friday mornings at 5.30 am.

All my 1:1 and ‘Get Fit with a Friend’ clients are invited to join my group classes for only $10 a session when they sign up for monthly direct debit.

And just in case you are not yet a believer in the benefits of incorporating fitness into your life check out this article by the Mayo Clinic highlighting the many benefits of exercise!

In Health and Wellness,

Jacek

As we get older, and our lives change focus our perception of fitness changes too. We may move from caring about our waist size and weight to worrying about our cholesterol and sugar levels.

As a father of two young men who are stepping into a world of social media where body image and self-identity can cause a world of confusion and trauma, I’m now reflecting on what being fit means to me. 

I’ve come to see fitness as not just a physical attribute but rather one that encompasses body, mind, and spirit. 

On a physical level it’s:

• Being able to get up in the morning free of aches and pains
• Having the energy to keep up with the kids after school and weekend sports activities 
• Challenging them to stretch themselves with new goals like learning stand-up paddle boarding, surfing or rock climbing
• Managing my own garden maintenance and building projects to keep my agility
• Staying mobile so I can play with my grandchildren in the future

On a mental / emotional level it’s;

• Being able to fall into a deep and restful sleep easily
• Waking up alert and with a clear mind
• Having emotional stability to problem solve and react consciously not through my automated trigger response 
• Having mental agility and creativity 
• Staying positive and having sustainable resilience to manage those challenging times

On a spiritual level it’s;

• Reflecting on my purpose, values and goals
• Prioritising and making time for connecting with family and friends
• Devoting time for sacred practices such as meditation and mindfulness  

What can we do to invest in our fitness so that we can achieve these lofty goals? 

I believe it all comes down to introducing simple and short exercises daily that accumulate to create meaningful changes. 

It can take 5 to 15 mins of stretches, push ups, crunches, and lunges in your living room.

Start small, gain confidence, see the impact it makes and then challenge yourself a little more. Gradually building up your routine allows you to set realistic goals that you can achieve. 

Celebrate when you keep your commitment and reach a milestone, whether that be a week of working out without skipping a day, or being able to touch your toes, or making it up the hill at the end of your street. 

Ride the adrenaline high of achievement and let it fuel you to continue investing in your health and wellbeing.

Sometimes we need an accountability partner to keep us motivated and on track. As a mobile Personal Trainer, I can come to you in your lunch break, before work or after school drop-off. I can create a customised program to help you achieve whatever it is that fitness means to you; losing weight, increases endurance, eliminating bloating or enhancing vitality.

I also welcome you to join my Friday morning Fitness Class at 5.30 am in John Scott Park, Samford. It’s a 45 min fun and challenging workout session designed to invigorate, strengthen, and stretch you with a combination of Fitness Boxing, Cardio and Strength-based exercises. Only $20 a class or $15 if you have 10 sessions up front.

Call 0401 831 987 or email jacek.purefitness@gmail.com to book your spot.  

May you define and reach your fitness goals!