After months of “recovering”—from health scares, a big move into a tiny space, and life in general—I’ve been stuck in a “one step forward, one step back” rhythm for far too long. My gym bag and sneakers are dusty. My momentum and stamina are rusty.
It’s about time I did something about it.
Now that most of my boxes are unpacked and my doctors have cleared me to exercise, I’m ready to focus on my fitness (and wellness) again.
Today I’m heading back to the gym—actually, two gyms—one where I’m a member and another where I used to be a member. The one I pay for is just over three miles away. The one I used to pay for is just under a mile away. So, I’m going to do mini-workouts at each to help me decide which one I’ll be a member of going forward.
For weeks now, my body has been quietly asking for more movement, more breath, more life. It’s time to listen.
Going back to the gym after a long break is humbling. While I’ve never been in great shape, I used to spend up to an hour on the elliptical, push some serious weight, and knock out at least my age in sit-ups and push-ups.
Now I’ll be re-learning the basics: warming up properly, keeping my form, and listening to my limits. And honestly? That’s okay.
This time around, my focus isn’t on punishment, “earning” food, or chasing some ideal physique or weight. It’s about joy. Play. Curiosity. How can I make movement feel like a gift instead of a chore? Here’s what I’m doing:
Short, celebratory sessions. Even 20 minutes counts.
Tiny milestones. Each week I note a small win: heavier weights, better sleep, clearer head.
Gentle self-talk. No “I should be further along.” Just “I’m here, I showed up.”
I’m guessing it will feel like learning to drive again—slow, cautious, with little bursts of excitement when I realize, “Oh, I still remember how to do this!” Every time I leave the gym sweaty, I’ll be rebuilding not just strength but trust in my own resilience.
If you’ve been on a long pause yourself, know this: it’s never too late to (re)start your engines. We don’t have to go beat ourselves up for not being who we were before. We can begin where we are, right now, and make it fun again.
Keep calm and sweat on!
Clint 🌈✌️
P.S. In addition to going back to the gym, I’m starting Coach Kevin Martin’s Functional Fitness online course today. (Yes, Coach Ricky Vaughn, I’m a day late, but better late than never, right? lol)
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Right here with you and for you my friend! Let’s do this!!! It is hard, but you’re stubborn as hell, so I know you’ve got this!
Yes, I know all about being "Sick + Tired Of Being "Sick + Tired"!!! For months now, I've endured the annoying pain of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis. No more heavy lifting for me! My computer was also sick as well for a spell! Timely this should appear, like myself, my dears!
Take care and carry on! Thanks Clint!!