“Fit for Function, Ready for Life”
Catchphrases often emerge from a blend of experience, reflection, and countless conversations with mentors and peers. Over time, these phrases evolve, taking on a life of their own as they resonate with the people who use them. For me, “fit for function, ready for life” is one such phrase—one that I have come to not only embrace but also claim as integral to the philosophy behind Comprehensive Fitness Coaching.
The Evolution of a Phrase
The phrase “fit for function, ready for life” did not materialize overnight. It developed gradually, influenced by my career, personal experiences, and the insights gained through years of coaching and mentoring others. Recently, I found myself reflecting on whether this phrase, which has become central to my coaching approach, was unique enough to call my own. This question was sparked by feedback I received on a recent assignment for my MEd program, prompting me to dive deeper into the origins and meaning of these words.
A quick search revealed that the exact phrase “fit for function, ready for life” is not widely used—at least not in the specific context I employ it. In fact, as of 16 August 2024, the only place it appeared verbatim was on this website. However, I acknowledge that the individual components of the phrase are not novel. The terms “fit for function” and “ready for life” have been used separately by others, but the way I have combined them to convey a particular message is where the uniqueness lies.
Fit for Function: Beyond Objectification
When I hear “fit for function” used in other contexts, it often objectifies the individual, assessing them as merely a tool or resource suitable for a specific task defined by an organization. This objectification is something I push back against. My intent with Comprehensive Fitness Coaching is not to fit people into a predefined mold but to empower them to be “fit for function” in the roles they choose for themselves.
People are not one-dimensional. They fulfill countless roles throughout their lives—sometimes even dozens at a single moment in time. My goal is to help individuals recognize and embrace the various functions they perform, both personally and professionally, and to ensure they are prepared for these roles as they see them. This approach not only boosts their confidence in their abilities but also helps them set boundaries and manage expectations in all areas of their lives.
Ready for Life: A Personal Journey
“Ready for life” is a phrase that holds deep personal meaning for me. Its significance emerged during a challenging period in my life when I was transitioning from my military career to civilian life. In 2014, after being selected for a special assignment, I found myself grappling with both physical injuries and the emotional scars of a difficult divorce. Ultimately, I made the decision to retire from the military in 2016, recognizing that I needed to be fit for a different function—as a father, partner, and civilian.
At that time, I was also deeply involved in obstacle course racing, achieving national-level success. Yet, when someone at the gym asked me what I was training for, my flippant response—”life”—stuck with me. What began as a casual remark soon took on a deeper significance as I realized that I wasn’t as ready for life as I needed to be. I was physically strong, but emotionally and financially, I was struggling. This realization marked a turning point, motivating me to redefine what it meant to be truly “ready for life.”
The Power of Comprehensive Fitness Coaching
Through Comprehensive Fitness Coaching, I aim to help others achieve a similar transformation. My approach focuses on ensuring that individuals are not only fit for the specific functions they perform but also fully prepared for the broader journey of life. This includes physical fitness, emotional resilience, and the ability to navigate the complexities of personal and professional relationships.
Conclusion
“Fit for function, ready for life” encapsulates a philosophy that has been years in the making. It represents my commitment to helping others live fulfilling, balanced lives—lives where they are not only prepared for the roles they choose but also ready to face whatever challenges life may throw their way. By embracing and owning this phrase, I hope to inspire others to pursue a better self, just as I have done and continue to do every day.