There is tremendous power in being fit.
You’re able to take the little things for granted. Waking up in the morning without pain. Getting in and out of the car without issue. Shoveling snow in the winter, hauling groceries up a few flights of stairs, moving up and down the sideline during your kid’s soccer game.
We marvel at the likes of Thor, Ironman and Scarlet Witch. Their supernatural abilities fuel our deepest fantasies. But what most of us fail to realize is a fit body harnesses incredible power in its own right. It’s strong, resilient, and capable. It can run, jump, and heave heavy objects at will. You’re basically bulletproof!
Ok, you’re not bulletproof.
We all look to our heroes, real and imaginary, for inspiration. We’re energized by stories of overcoming the odds and achieving victory when all hope is lost. By becoming fit, you can write your own superhero story. You can become that version of yourself you’ve always envisioned. You can become a source of inspiration for others.
You can overcome the odds and achieve victory when all hope is lost.
So much of what ails us is self-inflicted.
We’re overweight because we eat too much. We’re fragile because we move too little. Our bodies break down because we abuse cigarettes, drugs and alcohol. The CDC estimates eliminating these risk factors alone would prevent 80% of heart disease and stroke, 80% of type 2 diabetes, and 40% of cancer.
By choosing to be fit you are choosing to be in control of your life, to wield fantastic power. Power over your health and your well-being. Being fit is your Ironman suit, your hammer, your Vibranium shield.
You become more resilient, more able to handle adversity. Life loves to toss a grenade our way every now and then, something that upends our day-to-day in a way we didn’t see coming. By grounding yourself in fitness, in a healthy way of life, you’re able to take whatever life has in store and come out the other side stronger than before.
Being fit strengthens your mind’s resolve. Wielding great power is not just about physical prowess, but also mental toughness. Not backing down when the going gets tough. It’s about looking your enemy in the face, in whatever form he takes, and saying “I will not bow. I will not break”.
“The measure of a man is what he does with power.” – Plato
What will you do with yours?
Scott Mayer is a runner, thinker, curious observer and certified personal trainer. Visit the In Fitness And In Health website for ebooks, training plans, consulting options and additional content.