The Wellness Column

— by Matt Spencer

We all know the mantra: exercise is good for you. Doctors preach it, public health campaigns echo it, and deep down, we acknowledge its truth. We envision a longer, healthier life, free from the shackles of chronic disease. But if we’re truly honest with ourselves, isn’t there often another, more immediate motivator lurking beneath the surface? Perhaps a desire to feel more confident, to move with greater ease, or yes, even to catch a few admiring glances.

As a recent article highlighted, referencing the work of longevity researcher Dr. Roy Walford, the drive for attractiveness is a powerful, primal force. There’s an undeniable boost to our self-esteem when our clothes fit better, our posture improves, and we feel a newfound vitality in our step. This isn’t vanity; it’s a fundamental aspect of human nature.

However, to view fitness solely through this lens is to miss a profound and transformative truth. The sweat, the effort, the occasional muscle soreness – it all cultivates something far more valuable than just a pleasing reflection in the mirror. It unlocks a cascade of benefits that ripple far beyond the gym walls, enriching every facet of our lives.

Think of it as a “transference effect,” as the aforementioned article aptly describes. The discipline you cultivate to show up for that early morning workout, the willpower you summon to push through those final repetitions, the mental toughness you develop to overcome physical challenges – these aren’t skills confined to the realm of exercise. They are potent superpowers that seamlessly translate into your professional life, your personal relationships, and your ability to navigate the inevitable hurdles life throws your way.

Imagine tackling a demanding project at work with the same focus and determination you bring to a challenging hike. Picture navigating a difficult conversation with the resilience you’ve built through pushing your physical limits. The mental fortitude forged in the pursuit of fitness becomes an invaluable asset in every area of your existence.

Furthermore, engaging in physical activity taps into something deeply human. It’s about exploring our capabilities, discovering a strength we didn’t know we possessed, and striving to become the most capable version of ourselves. It fosters virtues like courage – the willingness to push beyond our comfort zones – self-discipline – the commitment to our goals even when motivation wanes – and responsibility – the ownership of our well-being.

Ultimately, embracing a fitness routine is about so much more than simply extending our lifespan. It’s about adding vibrant “life to our years,” as the article eloquently concludes. It’s about having the energy to fully engage with the world around us, the strength to pursue our passions, and the confidence to chase our dreams with unwavering conviction.

So, while the initial spark to begin a fitness journey might be ignited by the desire to look good, the true reward lies in the profound transformation that unfolds within. It’s about feeling good, yes, but more importantly, it’s about becoming a more resilient, capable, and ultimately, more fulfilled human being. It’s time to move beyond the beach body and unlock the extraordinary superpower that lies within each and every one of us.

Matt Spencer is a coach at CrossFit Orillia, www.crossfitorillia.ca.