The Importance of Physical Fitness

So, last week I decided to go mountain biking for the first time. My friends who invited me told me that I should have no problem going and that it would be lots of fun. I thought, sure, as long as I don't die, this could be a lot of fun and definitely a new adventure. I've been bike riding before. My brother and I used to go riding in Missouri on some hilly but paved trails. I was a boy scout and earned the cycling merit badge and as a boy scout leader I had been on trips with the scouts. On top of my past experience, I play soccer every week so I figured sure, I can do this. Well let me tell you, we weren't even a mile into the ride and I was dying! I'm thinking, "Oh my gosh, how on earth am I going to make it to the top." So I stopped for a breather and then continued on. I did eventually make it to the top but I was like 20 minutes behind everyone else. Coming down was the easy part, it's just have a seat and hold on for dear life. 

The whole time I was thinking about how on earth do I expect to be able to survive in whatever situation I may be in if I can't do this. I forced through and it was fun but wow, new respect for mountain bikers. I also got to thinking about all the action movies I love to watch. All of these guys end up in situations where they end up saving the world, but are any of them fat? NO! I mean, I know its Hollywood but still think about if it were reality, do you think the people who stand out and save the day are the ones who are unhealthy? About the only situation I can think of where it would be a good thing is that you have an extra calorie reserve to live off of if there were no food.

Living healthy is freedom! I'm glad that I was healthy enough to make it to the top and bike down without collapsing and having a heart attack. It allowed me to experience something new and to enjoy some beautiful scenery in the Rocky Mountains. Being healthy can allow you to do whatever you want to do without restricting your activities due to your physical abilities. It is very liberating to know that if you want to go hike a mountain, bike some trails, run a 5k, etc. you can! The things you see and do will be more than worth the effort it takes to get there.

Now, I'm not saying that we all need to get out there and become Mr. Fit. I'm just saying that the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle will allow you the ability to do anything you want or to help you endure anything that comes your way. Think of all the medical liability that comes with living off of McDonald's! Now I love me some fries, but do I need to eat them every day, NO! All things in moderation! And don't let becoming fit run your life. You need to stop and smell the roses too. I've done a few different programs over the years like Insanity, P90X 3, and T-25. While these have their benefits and definitely work, they take time and dedication. I also do some running and that's fun but most of all I love to play sports. That is my favorite way to exercise. The results come when you mix the exercise with healthy eating. Does that mean don't eat cake? No, I've got a nice sweet tooth and sometimes it gets the better of me but don't eat them every day. All things in moderation! The other thing that is needed is consistency. Regular physical activity will lead to a healthier life.

Today is the day to get started. Just start by making 1 healthier eating choice today. Cut out the sour cream, try italian instead of ranch dressing, or add a small salad or something green to a meal. Then go for a nice walk around the block and enjoy the beautiful weather. You will go to bed with a smile on your face for having made better choices today. Then keep it up tomorrow! I promise you, you will feel a difference.