What does it mean to be fit?
Does your definition of "fit" include a variety of body types and ability ranges?
The fitness industrial complex is largely devoid, and I think afraid, of the idea of people becoming physically autonomous.
Of people taking control of their bodies and discovering that concepts like beauty, love, ability, and even fitness do not have to be defined by external sources.
Modern western culture, in particular the health & fitness industry, thrives on this bodily disconnect. As long as we are under the thumb of those who control the narrative of what a select few deem fit, healthy, and beautiful, we cannot break out and explore this idea of self-defined “fitness.”
We are held captive by a narrow definition of what one group considers “fit.”
In a world that judges, polices, and condemns the bodies of fat, non-gender conforming, non-white, and disabled people, it needs to be stated loud & and clear that the individual is the one who should control their body.
Movement and embodiment are two small parts of this. If we can learn about our bodies, explore our physical capacities, and learn how to move in different ways that work with our bodies—not destroy, diminish, or hurt them—this is one small way we might gain ownership of our physical beings.
You don’t have to become an anatomical expert to commune with your body. A little information and self-feedback can go a long way.
There’s no perfect path to physical autonomy, and devoting too much time to a singular pursuit is, more often than not, damaging to the mind and body. So strive for balance, try different things, and listen to the feedback your body provides you.
Train/exercise/move in a way that is enjoyable and sustainable for you.
Ask yourself: is this what is best for my body?
Am I doing this because I think I must to gain social capital or avoid criticism?
Or because I feel better after engaging in this activity?
Remember, movement and exercise are tools - use them in a way that you enjoy and makes you feel good!
And as always, these ideas are all secondary to the liberation of Black & Brown, LGBTQIA2S+, Fat, and Disabled people through the dismantling of colonialism and white-bodied supremacy.