Redefining Fitness
I have lived with spondylolisthesis since I was 12 years old, and I recently found out my back has self-fused. I used to work out all the time, but workouts have become difficult as I have gotten older. I found myself avoiding exercise due to a fear of reinjuring my back. I believed I had to engage in intense workouts that I could barely manage to do to lose weight. Following each session, I often experienced pain, which made me reluctant to continue. I felt embarrassed for not being able to perform the same moves as others in the class, and I was ashamed of how I looked in my workout clothes. The lack of progress on the scale overwhelmed me with frustration and anger, turning workouts into a significant trigger for negative emotions about myself and my appearance. Eventually, I hated working out and made excuses to skip it. I finally realized my unrealistic definition of fitness and the limiting standards I held myself to were the problem.
As we age, it becomes essential to redefine our approach to fitness. Instead of focusing solely on external appearances, we should prioritize how our bodies and minds feel. Fitness should encompass three essential components: flexibility, stability, and strength. All three are necessary for performing everyday activities and to help maintain our mental and physical well-being.
I started to concentrate on feeling stronger in my daily tasks, such as carrying groceries into my house. I found a fitness program emphasizing functional movement that incorporated flexibility, stability, and strength. I stopped comparing myself to others during workouts and began focusing on my capabilities, modifying exercises to suit my needs. I stepped away from the scale and measured my progress based on my internal feelings, such as having less pain, feeling less stressed, and putting on my socks without getting winded. This shift empowered me and transformed my perspective on fitness. I started to enjoy my workouts, even when they were challenging. Over time, I noticed positive changes in my appearance as well.
Redefining fitness has transformed my entire perspective on both exercise and self-worth. I eagerly anticipate my workouts now, and I genuinely cherish my rest days as crucial moments for recovery. After completing a challenging session, I feel immense satisfaction and take pride in my achievements. Daily activities have become lighter and more enjoyable, freeing me from unnecessary fatigue. I’ve also noticed a positive change in how my clothes fit, and I can look in the mirror without shame.
This journey has allowed me to rethink my beliefs about fitness and my capabilities, reshaping my self-image in the process. Fitness is no longer just a superficial endeavor; it’s a vital tool that helps my body age gracefully, allowing me to perform everyday tasks effortlessly and pain-free. Fitness is about honoring how my mind and body feel rather than focusing solely on appearance. Embracing this holistic view has truly empowered me.
I want to challenge you to dive deeply into how you view fitness and redefine your approach so that you feel empowered to take action. You have the power to change your fitness journey so that you achieve your goals.