Middle-Aged and Moving Forward: A Celebration of Strength, Setbacks, and Showing Up

“Aging is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and strength.” – Betty Friedan

Thought of the Day
In the grand scheme of age, I’m not that old—though my teenage daughter likes to remind me that I’m middle-aged, and my son has started to follow suit. But, in their defense, for activities I really enjoy, I am an old man. Getting back into competing in judo, it’s crazy to see that everyone from my generation and even the generation after is now coaching or retired. It’s always cool to see some of the other older athletes still out there competing. It’s inspiring to see older people being effective in what’s often considered a young person’s sport.

On the verge of another birthday, I’m reflecting on all the lessons learned this year. With all the accomplishments, the times I fell flat on my face, and the uninspiring moments—I’m proud to say progress is being made.

Throughout our lives, we come up with excuses for why things aren't possible. Maybe we think we’re too young, too old, not fit enough, dealing with a setback, etc. But sometimes we need to hold our feet to the fire and do the things that challenge us—things that push the game forward.

Don’t let those reasons stop you from making progress in the areas that matter. You can stay small and do what’s easy but you know better than that. And you’ll continue to push toward where you want to be. Not because you have to, but because you get to.

A week away from another birthday, my wish for you is to step up, move past the excuses, and work toward where you want to be. It won’t be easy and it shouldn’t be. But you get the opportunity to rise to the challenge.

An Invite

On Saturday, August 2, starting at 3 p.m., you’re invited to my birthday potluck! It’ll be at Kits Beach, between the playground and the basketball courts. If you’re in town, please swing by for some good food, laughs, and fun. Hope to see you there!

Tuesday Workouts

1.    1.  Hero Foo

13 Floor press

Then

20 minute amrap

7 C2B

77 DU

2 Clusters 170#

28 Sit ups

2.    2.  5 rnds

100ft Handstand walk

30 Alt pistols

3.    3.  15.1

15 T2B

10 Deadlift

5 Snatches

75/115#

4.   4.   10 rnds

30 sec cal bike

30 sec rest

30 sec atlas clean

30 sec rest

5.    5.  3rnds

400m Suitcase carry

30 alt snatches

35/50#