Not impressed by the typical reasons to get more into fitness? Yes, everyone knows they should exercise. Many understand that a mere 30 minutes of daily exercise can do wonders for your health, improve your sleeping habits and mental acuity, and boost your productivity in the office.
Despite all of these incredible benefits, that still might not be enough to push you into the gym. If the plain and clear health positives of exercise don't faze you, why not try mixing some altruism and purpose into your workout?
Take it from Olympic athlete John Carlos, who participated in one of the most iconic moments in sports history. Carlos, who appeared recently at Los Angeles's Into Action (a social justice festival and pop-up art exhibition), spoke on his experience as an athlete and activist, detailing how "running with a purpose" motivated him to win more races.
His purpose? To speak out on civil rights issues of his time.
Carlos realized that the more altruistically motivated he was, the more he would train to win. And with winning came more post-race interviews and chances for him to highlight, to a large listening audience, the causes and issues he really cared about.
As Carlos ran with purpose, he would win. As he would win, he would make an impact, in both the sports and political worlds.
After winning bronze in the 200 meter race at the 1968 Summer Olympics, he, alongside Gold Medalist Tommie Smith, did a small but powerful thing: he raised a fist in the air while at the podium, during the National Anthem. Smith's autobiography, Silent Gesture, explains that the gesture was more of a "human rights salute" than a "Black Power" salute, but there is no denying that the event made a serious statement at a time of turbulent political unrest.
The two athletes faced serious consequences after taking this unique stand at the podium, but the photo of them with their raised fists remains a lasting image that inspires many, even today.
As you progress into your workouts, consider thinking of a greater purpose behind your exercise routine. Though you may not be an Olympic athlete, if you can think of a cause that motivates you to try harder at the gym (some run for charity, for example), you may wind up doing wonders for your health, your community, and even the world.