This morning I have been contemplating just how long the body and mind can tolerate the extreme fitness level of daily crossfit/pro athleticism/marathon running/chronic cardio. Personally, and I realize not everyone feels like I do, I am of the mindset that I want my body to last until Im 100+ and the more it is used up now the more it will hurt later in life...if it makes it that far. Many over-exercisers dont live a long life because they use up their youth overworking the components. My philosophy is to do just enough to keep fit and enjoy life. I have learned that extreme fitness is only temporary. It takes a HUGE amount of energy, injuries and physical abuse to maintain peak fitness levels, and for what reason? For an ego trip? For the joy of feeling indestructible? Believe me, I have been there, I have competed at the pro level for many years and also at the top amateur level, but as I approach 55 I realize I am left with memories and injuries. Like a fair-weather friend, the extreme fitness level leaves as soon as you slow down. It is a constant demand on the body to try to maintain peak fitness, and it isnt healthy. The body will last a long time if it isnt abused and my plan is to do just enough to look good, feel great, and live long. The body cannot withstand chronic cardio, chronic weight training, or extreme dieting, the price will be paid later in life. So heres my philosophy: I weight train 3 days/week. Do a few 20 minute High Intensity Intervals on the bike or sprinting, and the rest of the time (2-4 days/week), I do enjoyable long and slow activity such as hiking, biking, walking, jogging...FUN noncompetitive activity that doesnt abuse my body. That may not be what other people want to do with their body, and everyone has a right to live their own life, but that is MY recipe for longevity and having a pain free life when I am in my later years. My father is 85 and he also follows this regimen, and he is fit and pain free. Thats my rant for this beautiful Sunday. Now its time to get outside and play!
Posted on: Sun, 02 Nov 2014 15:06:20 +0000
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