Keep Your Tanks Full

The 2:30-4:20 timeblock was in full swing, but I was not.

My tank was running low after a 2-hour meeting (and another late night here in Anaheim) and I still had a few rivers to cross before I'd be able to sit down and write this. I was feeling a little strung out and was fantasizing about how nice it would be to go upstairs and have a power nap. I imagine this is how the inactive population we try so desperately to reach feels about exercise. The mere thought of exertion probably drains their reserves and defeats them before they even pack their gym bags sometimes.

My avoidance button was on full tilt until I walked over to see if I could snap a few photos and get some video of Kimberly Spreen teaching "Blast! The Boxer's Workout." Let me tell you, entering that room had the same effect as a double espresso (or 5-mile run) would have on me.

The energy in the Marriott's Platinum 5 was pulsing out the wall joists. It lured me in and gave me the kick I needed to get through the rest of the afternoon. Everyone in there was sweaty, smiling and full of life as Kimberly led the packed room as a unit through the fun-yet-intense martial arts-themed choreography.

I wish we could somehow package this before-and-after feeling--the pure, raw energy that movement can feed into our bodies. Wouldn't our job to Inspire the World to Fitness be easier if we could give this essence to the many clients who hover on the bubble between adopting a holistic lifestyle and falling back into bad habits? Don't feel like exercising? Here, take a shot of this. Tempted to eat processed, empty calories? No problem, have a taste of this.

It's worthwhile to note that we all feel better after working out. Reminding clients that we understand this challenge and that sometimes even fitness pros fall prey to the "lure of lazy" may be one of the best things you can do to motivate them. Once through a training session or class, ask your clients to close their eyes and take one minute to capture the good feeling of endorphins running through their systems. Coach them to conjure this the next time they're tempted to opt for the couch intstead of activity. It just may get them out the door for the movement their bodies are craving.

Actually, here I am a few hours later and I could use another dose of IDEA presenter motivation and love. I may have just caught enough of a wave of energy from the chuckles I got looking at the photo albums I uploaded to Facebook a few minutes ago. There are some really fun dancing shots from last night’s Club Intrigue Party and a few other good ones from today’s education (including some from Kimberly’s class). But, I think my favorite one is of IDEA CEO Peter Davis bounding around the Health & Wellness Expo in a pair of Kangoo Boots. Caught that one on video, too. Stay tuned as I’ll be posting that once I’m back at IDEA HQ in San Diego!

As you all return to your “offices” next week, I hope you continue to channel the fantastic energy of the past few days—all you’ve learned, the new friends you’ve made, the product knowledge you’ve amassed. Take out your memories of World whenever you need to fill your inspiration tank and keep it full. Because if your tank is empty, there is nothing to give others. I can’t imagine where the world would be without the leadership and passion of the fitness industry’s best and brightest.

You all inspire me. Keep spreading your rare brand of magic and thank you for coming to World this year. I hope the experience was everything you anticipated and more!