Why I Never Got the Presidential Fitness Award

I never got the Presidential Fitness Award.

Why? Because I couldn’t do a pull-up.

Not underhand. Not overhand. Not any kind of pull-up.

It became a goal of mine — and I worked very hard. Really hard.

When I did CrossFit, I still couldn’t do a strict pull-up. But I knew that one day, when the time was right, it would happen.

Here’s the truth: I didn’t get stronger by working longer. I got stronger by working smarter.

I started tuning into my body and focusing on bodyweight, functional fitness. First, my push-ups became extremely strong. Then, I trained for every push-up variation I could think of. After that, I worked on negative pull-ups.

Finally, I got my first unassisted underhand pull-up. But the overhand grip? Still a struggle.

That’s when I added more core work and intentional lat engagement.

And at the age of 45… I did it.

My first unassisted, overhand pull-up.

I wanted it. I didn’t give up. And I didn’t let my past outcomes hold me back.

Do you see how much exercise can teach us about life?

As I head into the weekend to enjoy a music festival with Mark, the girls, and my father-in-law, I want to leave you with this:

 All you have to do is dream and believe. Anything can happen.

Wishing you an incredible weekend,
xoxo-
Ali