I never got the Presidential Fitness Award.
Why? Because I couldn’t do a pull-up.
Not underhand. Not overhand. Not any kind of pull-up.
It became a goal of mine — and I worked very hard. Really hard.
When I did CrossFit, I still couldn’t do a strict pull-up. But I knew that one day, when the time was right, it would happen.
Here’s the truth: I didn’t get stronger by working longer. I got stronger by working smarter.
I started tuning into my body and focusing on bodyweight, functional fitness. First, my push-ups became extremely strong. Then, I trained for every push-up variation I could think of. After that, I worked on negative pull-ups.
Finally, I got my first unassisted underhand pull-up. But the overhand grip? Still a struggle.
That’s when I added more core work and intentional lat engagement.
And at the age of 45… I did it.
My first unassisted, overhand pull-up.
I wanted it. I didn’t give up. And I didn’t let my past outcomes hold me back.
Do you see how much exercise can teach us about life?
As I head into the weekend to enjoy a music festival with Mark, the girls, and my father-in-law, I want to leave you with this:
All you have to do is dream and believe. Anything can happen.
Wishing you an incredible weekend,
xoxo-
Ali