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!