What does it mean to you to be Catholic? To be fit?

After nearly two decades of health, fitness and lifestyle coaching, I have talked to many people about the relationship between spiritual and physical health, though putting these concepts into practical ideas for exercise and healthy lifestyle behaviors remains a big challenge. I have studied many philosophies and approaches doing so, but always find myself gravitating back to my Catholic faith with more and more curiosity (and  answers;)

To explore this further, I focus on 4 simple and fundamental questions:

1. What does it mean to me to be Catholic?
2. What does it mean to me to be fit?
3. How are these ideas associated?
4. Do I understand and practice daily routines and habits that express the bridge between my Catholic identity and my personal fitness?

People struggle with these questions. It is pretty darned difficult to focus on a goal or path without knowing exactly what you are aiming for. My goal is not to come up with end-all answers nor debate with theologians and international health and fitness experts. Instead, I hope to offer basic and universally accepted answers to these simple, yet profound questions with practical, everyday tips you can use today.

As of today, April 20th, 2016, I will put my answers to these questions in a few bullets each:

What does it mean to be Catholic?

• I am part of a universal, supportive and loving family and community that shares principles, values and a faith in something bigger than the self.
• I have a compass by which I will live my life and teach my children to live theirs.
• I have a school, if you will, for me to help wrap my puny little human brain around this thing called God.
• I have a place to express my faith and explore my spirituality.
• God willing, I will live beyond this life.

What does it mean to be Fit?

• I can play basketball pretty well.
• I have enough energy to run around with my kids after work and help a family member or friend move a fridge.
• I am example to my clients and my family for living a healthy and fit lifestyle.
• I exhibit everyday strength – mentally, emotionally and physically.
• I have a purpose to be fit: to serve others and to be an example for others.
• I can perform physical maintenance on my body – when I hurt something or feel an ache, I have a general idea for how to alleviate that pain without going to a doctor.

Combining these answers makes up my “CatholicFIT Identity.” These lists are always in the front of my mind, I think about them often and I refine them pretty often. The first list motivates me to pray daily, go to mass weekly. give to my parish and work hard to send my kids to a Catholic school.

The second list helps me get out of bed in the morning, eat healthy, exercise and/or move daily and ultimately stay fit.

This identity is where your purpose for moving more lies. Motivation is driven by purpose.

There is a lot of talk about “Catholic Identity” in our schools and parishes but I don’t believe it is measured well. We must ask these questions of all of our students and families at every age and grade level. This is an excellent challenge that if embraced would lead to stronger faith and fitness practice in our community.