To move and be free is - for me - the very essence of fitness. We develop what we train - when we exercise our strength, we develop our strength. When we stretch, we become more flexible. By training freely with awareness, we develop an open mind and our intuitive capacity. We develop self-knowledge and understanding. We win freedom from the structures that bind us, freedom from expectations of fitness, and hopefully, the confidence to do what's right for ourselves, as autonomous individuals.

That's the idea, anyway. That's what I'm writing about: developing athleticism and awareness, free from the constraints of pandering to the beauty standard. I don’t care what shape you are, or what shape you want to be. What I’m about is appreciating exercise for the simple sake of enjoying movement and feeling more awesome. What else is the point?

That’s at the heart of it. Of course, developing your athleticism is good for you, but... To put it simply, move for the sake of moving. Enjoy being in your own skin. And don't take it too seriously, if you can help it. I have to keep reminding myself of that.

Chris Serong
Personal Training and Things, Melbourne Australia.