Programming for Longevity: Why are you working out?

Working out is hard. It takes commitment, diligence, and dedication to a goal (if you're going to be successful.)

Why are you working out?

• Lose Weight

• Look Good for an upcoming event (Wedding, Reunion, Beach vacation)

• Add Muscle, shape, tone

• Achieve a Goal (Marathon, Spartan Race)

• Scratch a Competitive Itch (Sports, Racing, Competitions)

• Being Healthy and Fit, in general

• Doctor’s Orders

Programming for Longevity

In my 30's and 40's I worked out for some of the reasons above, but back then I had no idea what being in your 50's was like. Then the cumulative effects of 50 years of life hit me like a sledge hammer, and my body felt really old almost overnight.

Looking forward, if the change from 30's to 50's is that bad, I can only imagine what the change from 50's to 70's will be, and I don't want any part of it!

I workout today using movement patters from unconventional, non-mainstream fitness (Kettlebell, Club, Mace, Floor work) so my future self will feel as young as possible. No vanity. No competitions. Lots of full-body movement patterns, full range of motion, rotation and anti-rotation, and real-world application - with strength-endurance, balance, and flexibility thrown in for good measure.

- Chris Butterworth