The title of this blog doesn’t refer to some amazing physical prowess I personally possess (though I do love my gym time!). No. It refers to all of us who seek strength in body, in attitude, in spirit, in all ways that make us Somebody.
As a personal trainer & health coach, working closely with people who want to be fit, I long ago learned something pretty universal: Most folks who strive to be fit are seeking something much bigger than a buff body (though they may get that, too). Most of us just want better quality of life. Absolutely, we want great physical health but also... Comfort in these bodies that carry us everywhere we need to go. Confidence to attempt dreams, big and small. More social connection. More enjoyment recreationally. The chance to set an example for kids & grandkids, to leave a small legacy of wellbeing. All of these aspirations are HUGE. I share them.
So, this blog is named after the person I strive to be and the person I suspect you strive to be, too: SomeBODY Strong. People often assume personal trainers are preoccupied with the state of bodies, and of course, to an extent, this holds true. In truth, my experience is that ANY journey toward fitness actually begins with the spirit. This little blog will, I hope, encourage you to strive for wellness in ALL ways.
Much of culture tells us to look a certain way. I propose we try to LIVE a certain way. When we care for our whole selves, authentic beauty follows—regardless of some mythical pant size or the speed at which we run a mile. Sure, in the posts on this site, we’ll talk about more specific strategies for becoming “strong” in lots of wellness-related ways. I’ll share ups and downs and insights into tactics that work—from a passionate study of fitness, yes, but also from decades of personally chasing it and from the amazing people I’ve been professionally privileged to support. We’ll face the impact of numbers like blood sugar, blood pressure, workouts per week, hours slept, etc. These do matter a lot—but they do not define us.
May fitness serve our spirits. May our spirits move our precious bodies. May we be strong. May you be well.
Jackie