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I think individuals are either drawn to physical fitness and healthy living (eating) by some internal desire ...or they aren't.
You would have to be my age or older to recall the ads in the back of magazines from the 1950's. It was Charles Atlas that set me on my path. For a few dollars you would receive a multi-page, mimeographed (deep inhale!) set of "workout" instructions in the mail. The illustrations showed how to use items found in anyone's home (towels, chairs) to do, what were for the most part isometrics (using one muscle against another ) and of course the requisite, push-ups, sit-ups, etc.
I remember a Christmas at the age of eleven or twelve, I got a small child-sized pool table and my cousin got a small barbell/dumbbell set. We traded and I never looked back. For most of my adult life I have had a membership at various health clubs. During those times when I had to travel and miss “lifting” it was almost like an addict without this fix. I feel so much more alive when my muscles have that dull ache from the exertion of the previous day.
But in December I turned 61 and I let my health club membership lapse. For the last decade my workouts have trended away from the heavy end of the dumbbell rack to lighter weights, more reps, swimming and weekly tennis games. Two weeks ago I purchased an almost pristine “Total Gym” on Craig’s-List. I have decided to move my workouts back to my home and (sigh) leave the view of that twenty-something MILF on the treadmill, with her rolling hips and spandex clad azz …to men her own age. * I realized some years ago - I had became invisible anyway, so……
I have come full circle.
(Now, if I could only find some mimeograph ink to snort.)
R.I.P. Jack - You were an inspiration to many.
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Don't fear the reaper.
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