I did quite a bit of fishing when I was young. Every last bit of it was fresh water, and I loved it.
Interesting fact: I didn't see the ocean until I was 14, but joined the Navy 4 years later and have been in Norfolk and (other coastal areas) ever since!
Even though I only fished for the four major species that could be found in Kansas; bass, crappie, bluegill perch, and catfish; the simple concept of catching prize winning fish would often become overwhelming.
There was so many different baits, so many rods, and so many different combinations of techniques. Still, I considered myself to be fairly successful even without all the crazy equipment and cutting edge technology.
I learned a lot lessons on the edges of creeks, the berms of backyard ponds, and at the neighborhood fishing holes. I learned not just about the best baits or reels... but about what it took to improve a skill not easily developed.
I could see great results with a particular setup one day, only to have it go completely dormant the next. I never knew exactly what was in store for me, but I would show up, ready to try my best. And while not every day resulted in a photo-worthy snag, the experience would teach me just a little more about myself and the art of fishing.
There are a lot of parallels between fishing and fitness.
Different people want to catch different fish... and often for very different reasons. One person may be looking for a trophy bass to show off (in fitness, this would be equivalent to improving physique and esteem), while another may be looking to feed and provide for their family (the fitness equivalent being improved health markers, reduced pain, and improved quality of life).
Of course, their techniques would be dictated by the goal they had in mind- catching a meaty catfish requires a drastically different approach compared to pulling in a trophy large mouth bass. Similarly, a very specific goal like improving our sprinting speed requires a different approach compared to preparing for an ultra-marathon.
Though quite a few comparisons can be made between the participants involved in both activities, the best lessons learned are actually hidden within the acts themselves...
-First, if you want to catch a fish, you have to start with a single line in the water.
Take the first small step. It doesn't have to be the one that wins the race- but it will get you started.
-Second, if you want to improve, you have to get that line in the water more often.
Go a little further. Strive for consistency, making small changes and course corrections as you learn along the way.
And perhaps the biggest lesson of all, whether fishing or chasing your next fitness goal-
In order to be successful, you have to ignore the people who would take joy or benefit from seeing you fail.
If you are interested in talking to us more about how to get started schedule a free No-Sweat Consult with us and let's take a look at your goals and develop a plan to help you "catch" more of them today.