How much load do you take on?

In the world of exercise, the term "load" is often used to describe the weight or resistance we apply to our bodies. Whether it’s lifting weights, running on a treadmill, or swimming laps, each activity involves managing a certain load.

When we workout, we manipulate load in various ways.

🏃🏽‍♂️ On a treadmill, we adjust the speed and incline to challenge ourselves.

🚴🏼‍♂️ On a stationary bike, we tweak the cadence and resistance.

🏊🏿‍♂️ In the pool, we modify our movements to increase or decrease resistance as we glide through the water.

🪑 Even gravity is a load; every time you stand up from a chair, your body experiences the force of gravity pulling you down.

But load isn’t just about physical weight.

It’s also about the mental and emotional burdens we carry.

Think about a time when you were asked to move in a way that was uncomfortable or even painful. That’s not just a physical load; it’s a load on your mind and emotions as well.

When we take on too much load, whether physical, mental, or emotional, our bodies can struggle to cope. This can lead to compensatory movements or patterns that aren’t natural and in some cases not healthy.

As a kinesiologist, I don’t just focus on how your joints move; I look at how your entire body moves as a system.

I use load as a gauge to assess what’s working well and what isn’t. We can adjust the load—adding or removing it—to help your body move more efficiently and comfortably.

Sometimes, to make real progress, we need to take some of that load off. It’s like the song, The Weight says, “Take a load off Annie.”

So, what load are you putting on yourself?

Consider not only the physical load but also the mental and emotional ones. Past experiences that didn’t go well can weigh heavily on your mind. Maybe you had a negative experience at the pool or in a group fitness class, and the thought of trying again feels overwhelming.

That’s a load, too.

Load is a powerful tool.

It can push us to new levels of fitness and wellness, but it’s a delicate balance. Adding too much too quickly can be counterproductive.

This Fall, I encourage you to consider the load you’re carrying. What’s manageable for you? Remember, your capacity may change daily depending on your physical health, mood, and mental state. So be sure to check in when you need.

To help you find the right balance, I’m offering several group classes this Fall, each designed to help you manage your load effectively.

Additionally, my new virtual program, Mindful Movement, starts this September, providing a gentle way to offload stress and tension. To learn more about it, be sure to RSVP to The MedFit Movement Studio's Community Connections Launch Party. Join us virtually on Sunday, September 8, at 3 PM for a sample class with movement and opportunity to connect with yourself.

​RSVP today! 

And for a more personalized approach, you can work with me one-on-one in my signature program, Movement Momentum, where we’ll customize the perfect load for you.

Take a moment to reflect on the loads you carry—both seen and unseen—and let’s find a way to make them work for you, not against you.

Stay well and happy moving,
Lisa

Have you ever been part of an event with a group of people and felt the power of collective experience?

Perhaps you’ve cheered together at a sporting event or swayed to the rhythm at a concert with your local community. These moments of shared experience often amplify our enjoyment and connection to the moment.

I recently returned from a bike and yoga therapy retreat with nine wonderful individuals.

We cycled together, repaired our bikes side by side, took in breathtaking views, and practiced yoga as a group. We enjoyed each other’s company, shared meals, explored walking trails, and even learned about the resilient Acadians of Nova Scotia, who were among the early settlers of what is now Canada.

This retreat underscored the value of community.

When we come together with a shared goal, the experience becomes richer and more fulfilling. It’s this sense of connection and collaboration that inspired me to create The MedFit Movement Studio—a space for exploring movement, experimenting with wellness, and fostering community.

I’m thrilled to announce the launch of The MedFit Movement Studio with our Community Connections Launch Party! 🎉

Join us virtually on Sunday, September 8, at 3 PM for an afternoon of movement, connection, and fun. It’s a chance to enjoy moving your body, meeting new people, and celebrating the start of something special.
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​Mark your calendar and RSVP today!

Learn more about what we have in store and be part of a community where we unite, move, and thrive.

Let’s launch a healthier tomorrow together!

Stay well and happy moving,

Lisa


P.S. This is an open event, so feel free to invite anyone who might appreciate being part of a community dedicated to physical activity, exercise, and movement!​

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In our fast-paced world, it's easy to feel like opportunities for physical activity have passed us by. Work, family, and countless responsibilities can make it seem impossible to find time for ourselves.

But the truth is, it's never too late to become the physically active person you aspire to be.

No story exemplifies this better than that of Mary Stroebe.

Mary’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit's boundless potential. At the age of 75, Mary decided to embark on an extraordinary adventure: she began competing in triathlons. While many might consider retirement a time to slow down, Mary saw it as an opportunity to push her limits and explore new horizons.

Mary's story isn't just about participating in races; it's about breaking barriers and defying expectations. She continued to compete well into her 80s, completing triathlons with a tenacity and joy that inspired everyone around her. Even after suffering a serious injury, Mary didn't give up. She used her recovery period as a chance to train harder and come back stronger.

Her story gained widespread recognition, eventually being chronicled in the short documentary "Mary & Bill". This film captures her spirit, her unwavering determination, and her message to the world: Age is just a number, and it's never too late to pursue your passions.

Mary's journey teaches us several valuable lessons about becoming physically active at any age:

1. Start Where You Are Today: You don’t need to be an athlete to begin. Start with small, manageable steps. A daily walk, a gentle yoga class, or a short swim can be the perfect way to ease into a more active lifestyle.

2. Enjoy the Process: Find activities you love. Whether it’s dancing, hiking, biking, or swimming, the key to maintaining an active lifestyle is enjoying what you do. Physical activity shouldn’t feel like a chore; it should be a source of joy and fulfillment.

3. Stay Consistent: Consistency is more important than intensity. Make physical activity a regular part of your routine, even if it’s just a few minutes each day. Over time, these small efforts will add up to significant improvements in your health and well-being.

Mary Stroebe’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to become the physically active person you want to be. No matter your age or current fitness level, you have the potential to make positive changes in your life.

Want some more inspiration?

Download my guide, Get Back to Enjoying Your Best Life to read more inspirational stories of my clients overcoming obstacles and finding their way back to their best lives.

Embrace the journey, set your goals, and enjoy the process.

Your best days of physical activity and vitality might still be ahead of you.

Stay well and happy moving,
Lisa

​P.S., If you are ready to explore what is possible for you, book your complimentary Roadmap to a Healthier You consultation. I have 2 spots open in my one-on-one program, Movement Momentum, in September. Allow me to guide you on the journey to discovering your physically active future self.

As the world gathers to celebrate the 2024 Summer Olympics, we are reminded of the incredible feats of athleticism, dedication, and perseverance that define the Games.

Athletes from around the globe come together, not only to compete for medals but to embody the Olympic spirit of excellence, friendship, and respect.

Watching these remarkable individuals push their limits can be incredibly inspiring, and there’s much we can learn from their journey to apply to our own physical activity and exercise pursuits.

🙌🏼 The Pursuit of Excellence

Olympians dedicate years to honing their skills, striving for personal bests, and overcoming obstacles.

This relentless pursuit of excellence is a core principle we can all embrace. Whether you’re an avid walker, a weekend yogi, or just starting your fitness journey, setting personal goals and working steadily towards them can bring a profound sense of accomplishment and joy. Remember, excellence is not about being perfect; it’s about continually striving to be better than you were yesterday.

💪🏼 Unwavering Dedication

The road to the Olympics is paved with countless hours of training, discipline, and sacrifice.

While we might not be training for a gold medal, we can still adopt this unwavering dedication in our own lives. Consistency is key to any fitness regimen. It’s about showing up, even on days when motivation is low, and understanding that every small effort contributes to the bigger picture. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and stay committed to your journey.

👥 Building a Supportive Community

One of the most beautiful aspects of the Olympics is the camaraderie and friendship that flourishes among athletes. They cheer for each other, share in victories and defeats, and build a supportive community.

In our physical activity pursuits, finding or building a supportive community can make all the difference. This is exactly why I created The MedFit Movement Studio, a place to find community and support with real people! Sharing your goals and progress with others not only provides motivation but also makes the journey more enjoyable and enriching.

Not a member yet of The Studio? Find out more here. And considering join us in the free community.

🤝 Respect and Sportsmanship

The Olympics also teach us the value of respect and sportsmanship.

Respecting your body, your limits, and the process is crucial. Listen to your body, avoid overtraining, and give yourself grace during setbacks. Practicing sportsmanship extends beyond the field of play; it’s about respecting others, celebrating their successes, and offering encouragement. Foster a positive mindset that focuses on growth and learning rather than comparison.

🥇 Becoming Your Own Champion

As we watch the athletes compete in Paris, let’s take a moment to reflect on what it takes to be our own champion.

It’s not about the accolades or the recognition; it’s about the inner journey of pushing your limits, staying dedicated, building supportive connections, and respecting the process.

You have the power to define what being a champion means to you in your own life.

The Olympic Games serve as a powerful reminder that greatness lies within all of us. So lace up your runners, roll out your yoga mat, or grab your bike, and embrace your own Olympic spirit. Celebrate your achievements, big and small, and remember that every step forward is a victory. The road to personal excellence is a lifelong journey, and today is the perfect day to take the next step!

Stay well and happy moving,
Lisa