Set Standards, Not Just Goals—Own Your Strength

Are you chasing goals or building unshakable standards? Goals are great, but they can be hit or miss. Standards, on the other hand, define who you are. They are your non-negotiables—the foundation of a stronger, healthier you.

Health is a daily balance. At the end of each day, are you in the positive or negative? If you set your standards as the bare minimum for a "health-positive" day, there’s no room for failure. You just show up.

No Excuses, Just Commitment

Movement isn’t optional—it’s essential. Resistance training, cardiovascular work—these aren’t just for athletes. They’re for anyone who wants to live fully, age well, and stay strong. Even as a trainer, I have to work for it. But I’ve learned this: the best way to stay committed is to make movement part of who you are.

Why Standards Matter More Than Goals

Dr. Gabrielle Lyon said it best:
"If you set a standard for how you operate, you execute regardless of how you feel. Standards are non-negotiable."

Think about it:

• Goal: Improve cardiovascular fitness.
  • Standard: Schedule and complete your weekly walks/runs—no excuses.
• Goal: Lose 10 pounds.
  • Standard: Cut sugar and alcohol as a lifestyle choice.
• Goal: Floss daily.
  • Standard: Never miss a day, period.

Your results come from what you consistently do—not what you hope to do.

Muscles Are Medicine

Strength training isn’t just about looking good. Science shows that it reverses disease, improves blood chemistry, and extends longevity. Too often, we hear "eat better, exercise more" without real guidance. But here’s the truth: muscle is medicine. It’s not just about working out—it’s about creating a body that fights for you.

Raising the Bar: My Own Challenge

Ever heard of the Grouse Grind? It’s a 2.5 km, 800m elevation trail in North Vancouver—"Mother Nature’s Stairmaster." After 20 years away, I started hiking it again. Then, my son challenged me to an endurance event: complete it as many times as possible in a day.

I set the standard: one hike per week, no excuses. I built my strength, prioritized recovery, and stayed consistent. On event day? I climbed it five times.

What did this prove? Consistency wins. The commitment I made to weekly hikes built the strength and endurance I needed—not just for the event, but for life.

What’s Next for You?

Think about where you are and where you want to be. Set standards, not just goals. Don’t rely on motivation or willpower—they fade. Build habits that stick, ones that become part of you.

Movement is medicine. Strength is earned. Health is built. Let’s get stronger together.

Join our classes. Subscribe to our YouTube channel. Make today the day you commit to a stronger future.

Let’s move, grow, and thrive—together.

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