Fitness is the artistic expression of human movement. There is no right or wrong way to move, and we are free to express ourselves as we see fit. Yogis move gracefully, powerlifters lift forcefully, and athletes maneuver skillfully. Simply put, we express ourselves physically through our needs, our lifestyles, and our interests.
With over 50 training styles and 1000 exercises, fitness is one of the most diverse industries in today's world. Such diversity requires a need for open-mindedness. After all, a successful enthusiast supports all fitness types, despite his or her own personal biases.
You choose to exercise based on two things, 1) your goals, and 2) your desires. Only when your training methods infringe upon your ability to make gains or exercise enjoy-fully, will they hinder your fitness journey.
Not all fitness types are created equal.
Fitness is just as much of a science as it is an art form... and different training types produce different training outcomes. (Ex: typically, sprinters carry more muscle mass than marathoners, and powerlifters are stronger than bodybuilders). Essentially, we are the result of our training methods. And although there is no right or wrong way to train, our training type must still match our training goals.
Example: If you desire more muscle mass, then long distance running five times/ week may not optimize your results. Running is not right or wrong, but its application directly conflicts with your training goal! If you love to run and are not worried about optimizing your size gains, then run. But if optimizing your results is more important to you than your running enjoyment, then consider altering your methods.
Open your mind, broaden your knowledge base, and embrace diversity.
In general, most goals are multi-faceted. In essence, there are multiple ways to approach most training goals to produce a similar end result. That is where open mindedness comes into play. If your goal is to put on muscle and you enjoy lifting heavy, then lift heavy! Similarly, if your goal is to pack on size and you enjoy lifting a little bit lighter with considerably shorter rest periods, then do that! Both methods can produce similar increases in muscle mass as long as certain variables are accounted for (volume, etc). As long as you understand your training's potential outcomes, then exercise as you see fit. Your body is a blank canvas, and you control your brush's stroke!
Be open-minded
Understand that there is no right or wrong way to train. See exercise for what it is, and apply it to your own training based on your specific needs and desires. If a certain fitness type is not for you, then do not implement it, and leave it at that. It may serve someone else on a slightly different path well, where it led you astray.
Bringing it all together.
Fitness is both an art and a science. With that said, your knowledge and open- mindedness will ultimately reflect your industry based success. So train smart and have fun! May the gains be ever in your favor.
