This week on the podcast, I’m going to be sharing why I have found adventure a crucial part of my clients’ and my own personal journeys to happiness and health. I’ll be discussing what adventure means, my three big reasons why you should be doing it, and three action tips to getting the “adventurous” ball rolling, so to speak! 

Every week you tune into the Fit is Freedom Podcast, you’ll hear me mentioning “a touch of adventure” as part of the journey to health and wellness. But, why is adventure so important? 

Adventure can have a variety of meanings. For me, personally, adventure typically includes being outdoors and doing something active. Oftentimes, I feel especially adventurous if it is a new experience like trying a new hike in the Smoky Mountains or stand up paddleboarding in a new place. 

For some, that may be a bit too much, and that is OKAY! Adventure could mean taking your grandkids to the zoo or going for a walk on vacation. Simply taking time to be outdoors, challenging yourself and doing something novel can really have an impact on your overall health. 

Here are my three main reasons that you should start adding a little adventure in your life! 

1. You’re NOT too old

It’s the age old excuse (pun intended), but it just doesn’t hold any weight! I’ve had clients in their 50’s start hiking and backpacking for the first time. There are people who do their first marathon or triathlon in their 60’s. It’s never too late to start adding a little fun, so the best time to start is now! 

1. Get beyond your comfort zone

No matter your age or fitness level, it’s great for your mind, body, and soul to go beyond your comfort zone. I had a client a while back who really wanted to see the Smokies. She never thought she’d be able to hike the trails, but after hard work and preparation, she did! She pushed beyond her fears, and she’s now bringing her husband and grandkids, creating lifelong memories that they never would have otherwise done!

1. Expand your horizons

Going on adventures expands you. When we’re expanding, we’re never contracting. As we age, people often see their worlds and experience getting smaller and smaller. Adding adventure does just the opposite! 

Another client of mine wanted to learn to stand up paddleboard. When she finally did it, she loved it! Because she loved it, she started taking classes and meeting other people who loved it as well! Before she knew it, her life had expanded beyond what she would have dreamed, just by simply trying one new thing. 

If you’re not sure how to get started with a new adventure, here are my main tips for getting started…

1. Dream

Before you decide to add some adventure to your life, take some time to dream a little! What do you enjoy? How do you like to move? What does your community have to offer that you’ve never tried before? 

Find a dream, no matter how small, and then you’ll be ready to put a plan in motion. 

1. Train

Depending on the adventure and your current fitness level, you’ll probably need to train for it in one way or another. My typical rule of thumb is to allow 3-5 months of preparing if your adventure is on the more strenuous side. For example, a backpacking or kayaking trip would require more intensive training than simply trying a paddleboard. 

1. Find Community

Lastly, find your tribe! Find that friend who will go with you. Join a class that makes sure you’re not alone. Enlist an accountability coach or partner like myself. Your adventure will go to the next level when you do it with other people. Trust me! 

Speaking of incredible communities, we have three big trips coming up with limited availability! Be sure to check the Fit is Freedom website for more information on the following trips…