Movement means using our bodies in ways that keep them capable, strong, mobile and ready for life. Walking, lifting, swimming, stretching, climbing, playing, exploring or simply moving throughout the day. It isn’t about exercising for appearance or chasing performance. It is about preserving our physical freedom, being able to do the things we want to do, now and as we grow older. A strong and mobile body gives us possibilities to travel, explore, play, work, adventure and participate fully in life.
What does the evidence say?
The evidence for movement is overwhelming. The World Health Organization describes physical activity as one of the foundations of health, with regular activity associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, several cancers and premature death, as well as better mental health, sleep and cognitive health. WHO estimates that 4–5 million deaths each year could be averted if the global population were more active. Importantly, movement doesn’t have to mean formal exercise: walking, cycling, active recreation, play and everyday physical activity all count.
How movement has woven itself into my life
Movement has become one of the ways I experience who I am. I have pushed my body through endurance challenges, including Ironman and long distance bikepacking trips. However, I have also discovered that movement doesn’t need to be extreme to be meaningful. Strength training, walking, cycling, running, swimming, rowing, stretching, mobility and simply being physically capable have become ways of maintaining my independence and keeping the door open to adventure. As I get older, my goal is changing from being fit for the sake of fitness to being capable for the sake of life. Strong enough to lift, mobile enough to move freely, and fit enough to say yes when an adventure presents itself! That’s why movement is one of the five pillars of Organic Adventure Coaching because everyone deserves the opportunity to feel strong and capable in their body. Movement is how we build the physical foundations for adventure.
“The goal isn’t simply to live longer. It’s to remain capable of doing the things that make life worth living”
Move. Explore. Play. Live.