I know I’ve sung this song before, and danced this dance. I’m aware that I have preached this ‘movement is medicine’ thing over and over, and I believe it from the bottom of my heart.
I think what’s important to emphasize here is that I hate working out. I always say ‘last set, best set’ when finishing my workouts. As I have gotten stronger and more capable in my training, those workouts’ intensity have increased, but I’m always tired when I finish up.
I don’t love those workouts.
What I do love, however, is how I feel after they’re all done.
Being an adult helps a lot with that. As I have matured, I realize the value of investing time and effort in increasing my quality of life and my personal well-being. Because of that, I am able to find time in every one of my days to exert myself and give my body what it needs to feel good.
That doesn’t mean, however, that I’m always thrilled about exercise. I always schedule it into my day, but I’m most pleased when it’s done and in the rear-view mirror.
That’s a fact. I don’t like working out. But I like how it makes me feel. So, I do it. Each and every day.
I dare say this bears belaboring.
A lot of my clients and training partners tell me they wouldn’t come to the gym if it weren’t for me, and that’s okay. I really do dream of living in a world where everybody looks after themselves properly.
A large number of societal issues could be solved instantly and any number of public health crises could be avoided if the population spent more time boosting their immune system in the gym instead of their dopamine levels on social media.
But that’s a rant for another day.
No, my hope, dear reader, is that you know I’m speaking directly to you and not directing this piece at some nebulous population that may or may not be paying attention.
Individually, getting more exercise can mean a host of bodily improvements. Bodily functions work better. Your brain works better. Digestion works better. Life is better.
Societally speaking, if everyone were to heed these words, we might be able to do something about the high number of Type 2 diabetes cases, the high number of patients clogging the overstressed public health-care system in this province and a number of other collective issues.
I don’t love it all the time, but working out gives me what I need to make it through the day in a happy and healthy way.
I wish the same for every last one of you dear readers. Get that last set done and get on home.
You’ll be glad you did.
Not sure how to get started? Message me at marclalondefitness@gmail.com or call 514-742-5465.
This piece was originally printed in Iori:wase on January 18, 2024