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
I am so incredibly humbled by your comments. YOU are the reason I wanted to share ideas and topics—because you inspire ME. Each of you mentioned challenges and immediately talked about the ways you're trying to keep going strong. I'm not sure you realized what an amazing and often rare quality that is. I applaud each of you, thank you from the heart, & send much love!!!
Jackie, I’m missing you so much. This blog resonates with me and what is going on in my life. I’ve been so busy taking care of others that I’ve neglected myself. I can’t contribute down that path though unless I’m strong and healthy! I’ve gotten into some bad habits again and because I’ve gained weight back on and because of that I let myself come up with excuses to not exercise. I have to love myself enough to want to get motivated and get some confidence to start back up. I’ve did this 8 or 9 years ago for all the right reasons, now I’ve been blessed with three more more and I need to keep up with them! I’ll…
Hi Jackie! This is an awesome blog and resonates with me. Choosing to live a certain way and choosing who we want to be. I am fortunate to still be collecting my paycheck working from home and view this 'quarantine' time as a blessing. I love my solitude and I am getting lots of things done around the house that I have put off forever. Boy does that give me a feeling of satisfaction. Plus I look at the time as an opportunity for personal growth and trying new things. For example, I am going to try my hand at growing plants from seeds! And, I have pumped up my bicycle tires and have been riding a couple mil…
Hi Jackie! This is so exciting! I haven't seen you forever and miss your sweet smile! Hope all is well with you during these crazy times!
I am ready to get back into shape for sure! In November, I had my second knee replaced. I had just finished physical therapy and was starting back at the Y when this all started! Bummer! Trying to do pilates and weights in this small house while my hubby is working from home too! Not working so well! haha
Once again, I am so excited about your blog!
Take Care and Stay Safe!
Love, Dar