At Sano, we’re dedicated to empowering health—whether through guiding patients back to wellness after injury or championing prevention to keep them thriving. As we look toward 2025, we’re turning to our trusted partner, Intero Wellness, for expert tips on how to make New Year’s resolutions stick. Intero’s practical approach to fitness aligns perfectly with our mission to support healthier, more confident lives for our patients.
Understanding the Why Behind Exercise
As we enter the new year, many are setting fitness goals. But have you ever stopped to ask yourself: Why do I exercise? Why should I exercise? The answer might seem simple at first—to be healthy, lose weight, or feel more confident. However, these are often surface-level answers. Beneath these responses lies a deeper truth that, when uncovered, can transform your approach to fitness and help you achieve meaningful results.
What is your definition of being healthy? Does it mean running a marathon? Lowering blood pressure? Being able to climb stairs without feeling winded? For some, it might mean playing basketball with their teenager without the lingering aches and pains. For others, it’s about regaining the energy to play with grandchildren. Many like how they feel or sleep when exercising regularly.
Defining what “healthy” or “fit” means to you is critical. Without a clear picture, your fitness journey might feel aimless, like heading west without knowing your destination. Specificity gives purpose to your efforts and ensures you’ll recognize success when you achieve it.
What Is Practical Fitness?
Practical fitness focuses on achieving the level of fitness you need to live your life as you envision it—no more, no less. Instead of pursuing arbitrary gym metrics, it’s about aligning your fitness goals with what truly enhances your quality of life.
For instance, improving your back squat by 20 pounds might not matter if your primary goal is hiking pain-free. Adding two more pull-ups might be irrelevant if what you really want is to play soccer with your kids. Practical fitness ensures that your workouts are meaningful and directly tied to your personal aspirations.
A Fresh Start for a Healthier You
As you consider your fitness goals for the year, take the time to reflect on your deeper motivations. Define what success looks like for you, and set realistic, purposeful goals to get there. Remember, practical fitness isn’t about keeping up with others—it’s about feeling confident and capable in your own body.
Resources for Your Health Journey
- Need help getting started? Websites like Go4Life and Active Life offer excellent resources for older adults looking to stay active safely. Paul Sharbaugh, managing director, recommends podcasts like Model health and Ed Mylett Show, to get you motivated.
- Dealing with pain while exercising? Reach out to Sano for guidance from our specialists who can address musculoskeletal concerns.
- Looking for a tailored fitness plan? Contact Intero Wellness at 816-897-2030 to learn more about our medical fitness programs.
- Considering medical weight loss? Sano’s general surgery team can help you explore options for reaching a healthier weight.
A Trusted Partner’s Advice
Paul Sharbaugh, Manager Director at Intero, emphasizes the importance of setting goals that align with your life: “When you define what you truly want from fitness, it’s easier to see progress and feel fulfilled by your efforts. Practical fitness is about making fitness work for your life, not the other way around.”
This New Year, commit to discovering your own version of practical fitness. Whether it’s climbing stairs with ease, playing with your kids, or simply feeling more confident, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
