The Evolution of Fitness in the Context of Life

I used to think that fitness was it-ness, that abs were fab and that anyone who didn't “get it” was missing it.

I used to believe that working out an hour a day was a passing grade and a moderate attempt made.

I used to believe that there were only the fit strivers and the confused, suffering people who didn’t get that they were not on the “right” side of the road.

I used to think that even the busiest person, mother or father must recognize that being soft made for soft kids and sent the wrong message to them about self-care and wellness.

And then I used to be single and the son of my mother and father.

Then I became a parent.

While I am every bit as committed to sharing the message of vibrant health and fitness I now know that there's something infinitely more important than chiseled abs, more powerful that being “show room fit,” more rewarding than a 405 pound bench…

Children.

It’s absolutely true that your health matters, that being here is all important and that your attention to your health and wellness is one of the most important gifts you will ever give your child but there will be times—many—in which the most important gift you can give is the message that they are more important than 1000 kettle-bell swings or 50 miles on the bike.

Sacrifice your presence in the name of the six pack and you may lose something in your connection—for a child might not always get it. They may cognitively understand you care about your abs but the message they’re really getting, on a deeper level, is you don’t care enough about them.

Fitness matters, Life happens.

The true art of living is revealed in how you embrace and integrate your wants, desires, responsibilities and opportunities.

May you hit on the balance and intention that works out for all involved.
 

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1. When Life Calls for Strength—This Father Delivers
2. Why Today is the Wrong Day to Start Your Fitness Program
3. 10 More Fitness & Nutrition Predictions for 2010
4. Why We Struggle with Fitness
5. Science Update: Is Coffee Truly a “Life Elixir?”