Why I Push Myself Physically

My oldest son was an elite athlete and bodybuilder who died in the line of duty as a law enforcement officer. He was “ripped,” and to honor his legacy, my family and friends started Curtis Bartlett Fitness Center where Veterans and First Responders workout free of charge and where our vision is to transform communities through purpose driven fitness. In other words, we encourage others to find their “why.” Curtis wanted to be in great shape because he believed if a fellow officer or a citizen needed help, he had a moral obligation to be “fit to serve” and “fit to protect.” When you know why you are pushing yourself physically, staying motivated becomes secondary and much easier to maintain.

Today I turn 64 and I feel just as healthy and energetic as I did 20 or even 30 years ago. So what is my “why?”

• I love the outdoors and want to hike, bike, and ride horses with my family and friends for as long as possible. I know I could die tomorrow and sometimes health issues are out of our control. However, I want to do my part to die young at a ripe old age. My mom and her brother both died of dementia and research is clear that vigorous exercise and lean muscle mass is one of the ways to negate the onset of Alzheimer's disease.

Curtis Bartlett

• I feel close to Curtis when I am at the gym. Curtis and I trained together often, and he showed videos to his large following of “pops” trying to keep up. When I lift, I hear his voice and sense his presence.

• I have ADHD and my mind seldom stops unless I am sleeping or exercising. Working out or playing basketball is therapeutic for me. It relieves stress, and for that 60 or 90 minutes my thoughts cease to race, and I am at peace.

• Although this may sound a little prideful, I am not going to lie. It is gratifying when someone says to me, “Sam, you inspire me. I hope I look as good as you when I get your age.” Curtis’s motto was “live inspired,” and maybe by pursuing a lifestyle of health and fitness, I will inspire you to take better care of yourself so you can fulfill your God-given purpose.

Sam

William S. (‘Sam’) Bartlett is a leadership practitioner who has guided both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations to high levels of success. Sam’s diverse experiences have made him a sought after motivational speaker and consultant to results driven companies. He is a noted authority in the areas of team building, employee engagement, customer service, conflict management, leadership, and what it means to “live inspired.” Sam has a love and passion to help others succeed. At 62, he compet