In this episode of the Fit is Freedom Podcast, I’m going to be discussing the importance of movement and motivation as we age in order to keep doing the things we want. I’m also going to be sharing some different perspectives on how to get there. 

A recent outing with a group of friends really got me thinking. We were out on a hiking trip with friends who varied greatly in ability and age. One particular friend was really struggling, and while they were growing frustrated with my attempts to offer advice and tips and tricks, I realized that there are some people who simply aren’t willing to do what they need to enjoy experiences like this.

As we age, we’ve got to prepare. I used to be in shape enough to just “dial it in” at one point or another. For example, a friend texts me to join them on an impromptu bike race or a long kayaking trip. 

You see, after we hit about 45, our bodies are just different. We’ve got to work to get our fitness base in a spot that will accommodate the movements and activities that we strive for. 

When asked, “Are you willing to do what you need to do in order to do what you want?” the answer isn’t always going to be “yes.” 

Over the years, I’ve had a variety of clients. They’ve had a variety of goals, some of which they were really motivated to do. Some of their goals, however, weren’t for them.  They just didn’t have the motivation to prepare.

If your answer is “No,” then I suggest finding something else that can change your answer. Maybe you don’t want to go out and run that marathon with your friend Sally, but would you want to try a kayaking trip? Would you want to go and hike in the Smoky Mountains?

I once had a client whose husband was training for this HUGE hike. To my client, she found this completely overwhelming, and she felt defeated even thinking about it. The thought of training and preparing for this big of a feat felt overwhelming, and thus, unmotivating. 

For this particular client, we adjusted. We looked at options, and we thought about what would be best for her. In the end, she figured out a way to hike for some of it and then finagle a shopping trip while her husband finished the rest! It was a win-win for her, and she was able to prepare. 

As I said, some people simply don’t have what it takes to prepare. But, if your answer is yes, then it’s time to get moving and planning! Figure out what you can do today to keep your passions tomorrow.