#44 - Invest in your Machine
We’ve already talked about why you are your most important asset and the role that nutrition and sleep play in keeping you in operating condition. Today we’re going to talk about exercise—yes, it is critical to being your best. The benefits of exercise are so numerous I can’t even begin to list them, but here’s a few:
Improved sleep
More energy
Feel happier
Healthier skin
Stronger immune system
Faster/stronger brain
Exercise does have an impact today; you’ll sleep better, be more relaxed, and feel energized—but it also plays a big role in the future, both short and long-term. You will be more energetic and boost your immune system within weeks but you will also decrease risk of major diseases when you’re old.
With all of these great benefits, it’s shocking that 80% of adults do not exercise as recommended. A big part of that, is that they failed to get into the habit during their younger years—if they haven’t exercised consistently in the last 25 years, what’re the chances they start now? Obviously it’s important, so it’s great that you’re involved in sports!
First, you should find an activity you enjoy. Experiment, try a bunch and see which ones you like! Running, basketball, racquetball, soccer, skiing, swimming, dancing, strength training, bicycling, rock climbing, kayaking, walking, etc. they’re all great ways to get moving.
It is recommended that teens should get 1 hour of exercise per day, six days a week. Work it into your routine so that you get in the habit—remember from previous sections how important it will be (especially early on) to put it in a part of the day when you still have lots of ego power. Use some of the goal setting (or success cycle) techniques we talked about over the past weeks.
It will also be helpful to have a partner. Get your friends involved in getting healthy—it’s a lot more fun with friends and they can hold you accountable. If you really want someone to hold you accountable or you feed off of competition, pick a sport and join a team.
I currently spend between 2 and 4 hours per day exercising (it took years to build up to that many hours). Although I will never be a professional athlete, the habits that I’ve built during my high school and college years are going to pay off for my entire life. Being fit is life-changing—I am more confident, healthier, a better person, and I have lots of amazing friends that I would’ve missed without exercise. If you have specific questions about exercise, training, injuries, races, equipment, etc. get in touch with me, I’d love to help!