"Working out for your health is not always about setting a personal record in the gym or a perfect training program. Something I often say to my training clients is that we as adults don’t play enough. I learned that doing a fun dance class or crazy boot camp with my friends may not have gotten me as sweaty as a perfectly structured kettlebell workout by my trainer self’s standards, but it gave me benefits in so many other ways. It got me moving, laughing, and having fun—and that is just as crucial to our health as a weight training session. Goofing off is not a bad thing!"

- Minna L.

Via MindBodyGreen

"[As a personal trainer], I tell them [clients] you have to look at it like being a kid in the playground, and that’s how I see fitness training. It’s not work to me, it’s fun! (Adult recess is what I tell my clients who hate to work out and look at it as a chore.) If you look at working out or physical activity as work, I know people will be reluctant to do it. Getting started is the hardest part, but once they do, it becomes part of their lifestyle. We break down any glass ceilings they’ve created for themselves and show them the only limitations that are placed are the ones you put on yourself. And if you want to feel healthy, be more fit and enjoy life; you have to take the first step. You can either go forwards or backwards. Which way would you like to step?"

- Jessie A-H.
Davenport, IA

Read Jessie's story of lifelong physical activity here.

"I like to move because it keeps me healthy and strong. I feel happy when I go outside and ride my bike. I get exercise when I play games and that is fun!"

- Kryzelle, Age 8
Regina, Saskatchewan Canada

"I like to play tag outside. I have to move becasue that's what I am meant to do. You can't just sit down, eat junk food and play video games. YOU NEED TO MOVE! It will make you feel really strong."

- Juanna, age 8
Regina, Saskatchewan Canada

"I move because I can and it makes me feel good! My favourite game is four square becasue it's fun and you have to move to stay in the game. That's why I move."

- Jackson, age 8
Regina, Saskatchewan Canada

"I move because it is fun and easy. You just have to get up and move. You could play or do anything you want. My favourite game to play outside is "Grounders". How about you?"

- Sundrah, age 8
Regina, Saskatchewan Canada

"I move to be strong! I like to scooter around Wascana park and then play tag in the park. Moving makes me stronger and happier."

- Zach
Regina, Saskatchewan Canada

"Absolute unmixed attention is a form of prayer."
- Jason Silva in Shots of Awe