You're Just Not That Into You

"I don't do cardio. I just lift weights. You can't see any benefit from cardio - right? I mean really, weight lifting, is worth the hassle. My pants fit better, I look better, you know, I'm fit. I work out for results. Cardio is a waste of my time."

"So, you know that cardio is important for your health though, right?" I asked.

"Yeah, yeah. I know. But, it's boring and really, I can't tell that it helps me any."

And, how do you feel when you're done with your workout?" I asked.

"Feel? Tired I guess. My back hurts usually but it's not too bad. Just sort of stiff and tight. It's just annoying is all. I figure it's ok as long as I stay fit, right?" he replied.

Maybe his genes will protect him as he ages. Maybe his heart and lungs will continue to function optimally even though he demands less from them day after day. Maybe he won't have a heart attack, or wake up one morning and discover he can't move an arm because he had a stroke in the middle of the night. Maybe over two decades of research is just wrong.

Maybe.

Bottom line, this guy doesn't really care enough about himself to take care of himself. He just wants to look good - whatever that means. He exercises - sort of - but is willing to roll the dice on his health for a marginally toned body.

And, he hurts.

When you hurt during or after exercise and you keep doing it, you're just not that into you. You care more about what you look like, how others perceive you, than how well your mind and body work. You would rather have toned, taut hips or big biceps than a spine that feels good and works even better. You're chasing an image of your self that is not based on a healthy self.

Exercise to get healthy and stay healthy and your appearance will reflect that choice. Take care of your heart and lungs (cardio exercise), your muscles (weight lifting), your brain (balance and coordination exercise), and your mind (meditation, Yoga, Pilates) and you'll look as good as you feel.

Get into you.

Doug Kelsey