Health is Hypertrophy
In the realm of fitness and wellness, a revolutionary shift is underway—a departure from the traditional obsession with hypertrophy towards an all-encompassing focus on health as the ultimate form of growth. What was once an era defined predominantly by bulging muscles and hypertrophic gains is now witnessing a transformation—a pivot towards an overarching emphasis on holistic health. Health has emerged as the new hypertrophy, heralding a paradigmatic shift in the approach to fitness.
This evolution isn't just about sculpting the body but nurturing vitality, longevity, and overall well-being. The modern narrative now champions a more balanced approach that prioritizes health as the ultimate goal. This paradigm shift encompasses multifaceted dimensions, encompassing mental health, nutrition, mobility, recovery, and sustainable fitness practices.
The same paradigm shift happened to me after The Incident. One day I am a macho, strongman, powerlifter carrying a yoke in a parade and the next, I am getting an internal automatic defibrillator put in my chest and forbidden from lifting more than a hundred pounds. The goal immediately became living longer instead of lifting stronger.
For decades, the fitness industry has fixated on the aesthetics of an idealized physique—the pursuit of massive muscles and chiseled bodies often took precedence over holistic health. Gyms echoed with the clang of weights and the aspirations of attaining a certain body image. While physical strength and muscular development aren’t obsolete, there's a growing realization that true fitness extends far beyond the external appearance.
Big Dude Fitness is the result of my evolution from the strongest man in New Mexico to the pursuit of a more holistic health and happiness lifestyle. This integrated approach to fitness applies the same principles I used to regain my health and will use to sustain it into the future. The EARN IT credo redefines fitness not merely as a pursuit of muscular gains but as a holistic endeavor encompassing Exercise, Attitude, Recovery, Nutrition, Input, and community support—your Tribe.
Exercise: Beyond Aesthetics
Exercise remains the cornerstone of physical fitness, yet the narrative is changing. It's no longer solely about lifting heavier or pushing harder; it's about movement diversity, functional fitness, and mindful training. Incorporating a variety of exercises—strength training, cardiovascular workouts, flexibility, and mobility drills—ensures a well-rounded approach that nurtures the body in its entirety, fostering strength, endurance, and resilience.
Another cornerstone of Big Dude Fitness’ EARN IT philosphy lies in fostering mobility, flexibility, and functional fitness. Rather than solely chasing brute strength, individuals are increasingly recognizing the importance of a body that moves well and remains agile across various activities and stages of life. That is why I include exercises that not just work a bodypart but require balance, stability and even agility to complete.
From my obsession with strongman, the principle of real world application of strength training has been integral to my fitness training philosophy. Whether working with an elite athlete on a specific aspect of their sport or working with an aging adult just trying not to become an old person, the goal is to connect this exercise with a tangible improvement to their ability. Functional exercises still work the muscles like a traditional bodybuilding exercise but also improve your ability to do something real.
Attitude: Mental Fortitude in Fitness
The role of mental health in fitness cannot be overstated. Cultivating a positive mindset, setting realistic goals, and practicing self-compassion are as vital as any workout routine. Mental fortitude not only enhances performance but also encourages consistency, resilience, and overall well-being.
Mental well-being, once overshadowed, now enjoys the spotlight it deserves. Understanding the intricate connection between the mind and body, fitness enthusiasts are acknowledging the significance of mental health in the pursuit of holistic well-being. Practices such as meditation, mindfulness, stress management, and adequate rest are now integral components of a comprehensive fitness regimen.
My practice of Qigong and Tai Chi follows this same process. Originally, I used these practices as just technique drills for my Filipino Martial Arts training. Trying to enhance my ability to flow between techniques and tie moves together in martial practice. When I returned to teaching, I originally brought that method to my classes. Over the past few years, I have taken a deep dive into the traditional health and fitness practices of these arts and have brought these into my teaching.
Recovery: The Vital Missing Piece
In our pursuit of fitness goals, Recovery and rest, often sidelined in the pursuit of fitness milestones, are now embraced as vital components for progress. However, it is during rest and recovery that the body repairs and grows stronger. Prioritizing adequate sleep, active recovery techniques, and mindful rest periods between workouts is crucial for optimal performance and injury prevention. Quality sleep, active recovery techniques, and listening to the body’s signals have become non-negotiable aspects of a holistic fitness routine.
Nutrition: Fuel for Health and Growth
Nutrition forms the bedrock of health-centric fitness. It's not just about macros and calories but about nourishing the body with wholesome, nutrient-rich foods that sustain and support overall well-being. A balanced diet tailored to individual needs is key to fuel workouts, aid recovery, and promote long-term health.
Furthermore, nutrition has transcended the mere calorie-counting phase. It's no longer just about macronutrients and weight management; it's about nourishing the body with wholesome, nutrient-dense foods that support overall health. The focus has shifted towards sustainable eating patterns that sustain both the body and the planet.
Information Intake: Knowledge Empowers Progress
In the age of information overload, discernment is paramount. Equipping oneself with credible, evidence-based information is essential to make informed decisions about fitness routines, dietary choices, and overall health practices. A well-informed approach helps in navigating the fitness landscape with clarity and purpose.
This is the reason I am obsessed with attaining certifications in fitness, nutrition, and life coaching. Being a reliable resource of knowledge for my Tribe is one of the modern duties of a coach and trainer. As a Master Trainer, I have gone beyond the superficial study of various modes and methods and taken a deep dive into these areas. It is beyond knowing the simple techniques to understanding the principles behind the programs and, most importantly, knowing how to apply them to my clients goals and ambitions.
Choosing your sources of Input is a skill that most of us have not developed. In 1980, cable television was a luxury and your town’s newspaper was the only source of news from the world. Today, you can have a conversation with almost anyone, anywhere, at anytime. Opinion versus fact is almost impossible to discern on today’s social media.
Big Dude Fitness can be that filter for fitness information. With a good explanation, most things will make sense and can be of benefit but it is hard to determine if it is worth trying to apply to your fitness and lifestyle. My goal is to be a source of good solid information and help you filter the stream of information constantly flowing around you.
Tribe: The Power of Community and Support
The journey towards holistic health is often smoother and more enjoyable when undertaken with a supportive community—a Tribe that shares similar values, motivations, and aspirations. Surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals fosters accountability, motivation, and encouragement, creating a supportive ecosystem that fuels growth and progress.
This paradigm shift doesn't undermine the significance of physical transformation but rather redefines it within a broader context. The new benchmark for success in fitness is not merely a reflection in the mirror but a reflection of one's overall health, vitality, and happiness.
As health takes the center stage, the fitness landscape undergoes a profound metamorphosis—a transition from a culture fixated on outward appearances to one that celebrates inner strength, resilience, and well-being. The pursuit of health as the new hypertrophy signifies not just a trend but a fundamental shift towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and enriching approach to fitness—a transformation that resonates far beyond the gym walls into the realms of everyday life.
In embracing this holistic paradigm, individuals can redefine their relationship with fitness, fostering not just stronger bodies but healthier minds, bodies, and spirits—an evolution that heralds a brighter, more balanced future for the world of wellness.
In this new era, health isn't just a destination—it's the very journey itself.
