Gritty Training Log: Choices by Andrea Wise, Equinox Manager of Tier 4 Program

Recently I visited the TED.com website and it introduced me to a new world of information. I stumbled upon a short video of Dean Ornish: The world now eats (and dies) like Americans. (The video is less than 5 min – I highly suggest watching it.) After viewing this video I saw a parallel between career and fitness. Most of us work very hard at our careers and as a result we put ourselves (more importantly our bodies) on the backburner.


http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/dean_ornish_on_the_world_s_killer_diet.html

Did you know that cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension are preventable for a majority of people? Prevention of these diseases comes down to something very simple and powerful – choices. You can choose to eat healthy (or at the bare minimum – make healthier choices) and exercise. You can also choice to eat poorly and have a workout routine that is non-existent. The later of the two choices is an easy one – hands down; however, not the best choice.

The benefits you can receive from a simple and consistent workout routine paired with a healthy diet are endless. I personally have worked with people who were dependant on prescription medicine and new to fitness. After time, hard work, and dedication – they were able to kick those prescription drugs and live a healthier life. I could go on and on about the importance of diet, exercise, and lifestyle; however, I am sure I would not be saying anything new.

As you read this – please take a moment to switch gears and think about your own personal career… How long have you been in your field? Has hard work, dedication, and sacrifice gotten you to where you are today? If you took the easy road (with your career) would you still be where you are today? I am posing these questions because if you treat your body as if it was your career would like be different? I would venture to say – YES! Your BODY would be healthier, your MIND would be sharper, and your CAREER would be even more SUCCESSFUL. Again – it all comes down to choices. You made the choice to have a successful career and be at the top of your game in your field. I challenge you to do the same with fitness! Imagine the possibilities if you CHOOSE to incorporate fitness into your life… What could that do for your career? The CHOICE is yours.