Ten Things I want my Daughters to Learn about Their Health and Fitness

Below are a few things I wish I had learned a lot earlier in my life. I’m teaching it to my girls now!

#1: – You belong in the weight room.

Learn to strength train and do it young. Muscle will change your relationship with your personal power, longevity, and mental health.

#2: – Never train to be thin; train to be healthy.

I can’t stress this enough. Create a big life, not a tiny body. Exercise is NEVER a punishment.

#3: – The size of your body is not your value.

Let me repeat. YOUR VALUE IS NOT THE SIZE OF YOUR BODY. Your body is a vehicle for your soul and all the fantastic things you add to this world.

#4: – The scale is the least effective way to measure your health and well-being.

The more muscle you add to your frame, the more you will sometimes weigh. Who cares. Nobody knows your weight. It’s just your relative relationship with gravity. Look at your body composition (fat-to-muscle ratio) and make that your gold standard.

#5: – Don’t let any man make you feel less than for anything (especially anything physical).

The man who loves you and cares for your heart will see beyond your physical attributes. Remember your value and worth.

#6: – Food isn’t good or bad; food has no moral code.

Food is just information and, ultimately, tools for your body. Learn to give your body good tools for growth, but never feel shame for enjoying your food.

#7: – Train for you and nobody else.

Determine why you want to be healthy and fit, and keep your “why” as central to who YOU are as possible. It’s never for anyone else; do it for yourself and lead by example for the people around you.

#8: – Remember, fitness is one of the greatest tools we’ve given for our mental health.

Use it for clarity, peace of mind, personal empowerment, and strength. Fitness not only gives you a chemical dose of well-being but also gives you resiliency for the hard days.

#9: – NEVER STOP training.

If you want to live a long and happy life, make training part of who you are FOREVER. Never stop making time for your health and wellness. It is the most essential gift you can give your life.

#10: You are enough as you are as you are!

Remember that. Keep your priorities straight. Fitness is never a punishment for your last meal or your weight. Fitness is a gift to give you the best life possible.

What else would you include for the young girls in your life?

Michelle