In regard to physical achievements, people seem to like to say they can’t. They see these inspiring athletic performances and, instead of finding in them the motivation to exercise, use them as an excuse for not even trying: the idea that they couldn’t possibly go from where they are now to what they’re seeing.
Which is, of course, ridiculous.
Now, there are certain things your body might not do. I’m 33, and I understand that Cirque du Soleil is (probably) not a viable career choice for me at this point. But that doesn’t mean I should never stretch.
Movement is an incredible gift. I am so thankful for a body that works well and so grateful that I’ve used it the way I have–and will. Even though I’ll (probably) never be able to join Cirque du Soleil or complete an Ironman triathlon (that’s not so much something I couldn’t do as something I just probably won’t do, which you could probably figure out based on my feelings about water), that doesn’t stop me from getting totally inspired by people like this:
Kayla Montgomery
When she runs, she can’t feel her legs. AND YET.
Simon Ata
The body control here is incredible. Learning to do push-ups with your feet off the floor (WHAT?) starts with learning to do regular old push-ups.
Urban Runners
So light on their feet; they make it seem effortless.
Sister Madonna Buder
How old were YOU when you did your first (and second, and 325th) triathlon?
These Two
Art in motion. Breathtaking.
Your body might not be capable of those things (yet), but it is capable of a lot. What are you going to do with it today?