Fitness in Philosophy

In this episode, which is part 3 of a 3 part series, James and Robby revisit the question that started it all: What is fitness?They discuss and debate the 7 main theses about fitness listed belowThesis 1: Defining fitness in the abstract is not that difficult. The real or the major question relates to how we implement fitness todayThesis 2: Fitness is not just solely a means to an end (like money) nor is it a pure end in itself (like happiness)Thesis 3: The environment is the central determining factor in the participation of the fitness, and this has massive implications for what we should do going forward in the present day worldThesis 4: The environment of hyperabundance is not going away, and it's only increasingThesis 5: The principles of fitness need to reinterpreted in every age and era, including ours, in a way that makes them accessible in our actual lived situation.Thesis 6: While certain forms of fitness as practiced today could be considered folly, there are plenty of forms of fitness today that are not folly. Furthermore, this may be the very first time in human history that the choice to engage in fitness involves any sort of virtue.·Thesis 7: Fitness is necessary but not sufficient for an optimal life, especially in the modern worldIf you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

In this episode, which is part 2 of a 3 part series, James and Robby revisit the question that started it all: What is fitness?Their discuss and debate the 7 main theses about fitness listed belowThesis 1: Defining fitness in the abstract is not that difficult. The real or the major question relates to how we implement fitness todayThesis 2: Fitness is not just solely a means to an end (like money) nor is it a pure end in itself (like happiness)Thesis 3: The environment is the central determining factor in the participation of the fitness, and this has massive implications for what we should do going forward in the present day worldThesis 4: The environment of hyperabundance is not going away, and it's only increasingThesis 5: The principles of fitness need to reinterpreted in every age and era, including ours, in a way that makes them accessible in our actual lived situation.Thesis 6: While certain forms as practiced today could be considered folly, there are plenty of forms of fitness today that are not folly. Furthermore, this may be the very first time in human history that the choice to engage in fitness involves any sort of virtue.·Thesis 7: Fitness is necessary but not sufficient for an optimal life, especially in the modern worldIf you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

In this episode, James and Robby revisit the question that started it all: What is fitness? Their discuss and debate the 7 main theses about fitness listed below Thesis 1: Defining fitness in the abstract is not that difficult. The real or the major question relates to how we implement fitness today Thesis 2: Fitness is not just solely a means to an end (like money) nor is it a pure end in itself (like happiness)Thesis 3: The environment is the central determining factor in the participation of the fitness, and this has massive implications for what we should do going forward in the present day worldThesis 4: The environment of hyperabundance is not going away, and it's only increasingThesis 5: The principles of fitness need to reinterpreted in every age and era, including ours, in a way that makes them accessible in our actual lived situation. Thesis 6: While certain forms as practiced today could be considered folly, there are plenty of forms of fitness today that are not folly. Furthermore, this may be the very first time in human history that the choice to engage in fitness involves any sort of virtue.·Thesis 7: Fitness is necessary but not sufficient for an optimal life, especially in the modern world

In this episode, James and Robby dive deep into the connection between fitness and inspiration.Inspiration is defined as the excitement of the mind or emotions, driving individuals from apathy to possibility and awakening new opportunities. It transcends ordinary experiences and fuels creativity, intrinsic motivation, and a deeper sense of purpose.The discussion focuses on three core characteristics of inspiration: evocation (spontaneous arousal), transcendence (expanding possibilities), and approach motivation (the drive to bring inspired ideas to life). Inspired people are often more open to new experiences, deeply engaged in their tasks, and motivated from within. Inspiration is linked to spirituality and meaning, often triggered by external sources like nature or other people.The podcast then shifts to the role of inspiration in fitness. It critiques the unrealistic standards set by figures like LeBron James and Tom Brady, which may not be sustainable for most people. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of drawing inspiration from long-term, achievable fitness goals, highlighting the need for inspiration in today's environment, where physical activity is no longer required.The episode concludes by reflecting on the role of inspiration in fitness, urging a shift toward authentic, empowering stories over superficial trends.If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

In this episode, we dive into the complex relationship between needs and wants, especially in the context of fitness and health. By exploring various philosophical perspectives, we examine how "need" can mean different things—from survival necessities to living an optimal life. Drawing from Kantian ethics, we pose the thought-provoking idea that a life focused only on needs is empty, while a life centered solely on wants is blind. We also explore the tension between biological needs and desires, discussing how lower-order wants (like junk food or laziness) clash with higher-order needs (such as genuine relaxation and social connection). Using insights from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Maslow's hierarchy, we consider how balancing both needs and wants is crucial for a fulfilling life—especially in the modern world, where survival no longer demands physical exertion but emotional and psychological fulfillment still does.

In this Part 2, James and Robby continue their discussion about the connection between equality and fitness.They discuss issues and questions like the following:-Biology is inherently unfair and unequal. For example:· A biological man could have a child at age 60 or 70 (not ideal but possible) should he choose where the that is not a possibility for biological women· A biological male cannot get pregnant or give birth to a child· A biological male has more absolute strength potential than a biological femaleShould we change or alter things in society to accommodate these facts?If we gain the ability, perhaps in the next 100 years, should we CRISPR to change our underlying biology (e.g., women and men have the same time to have kids)Is the fact that we can't change our biology based on current social mores a bad thing?How should we try to remedy the fact that there is both unequal access to fitness and unequal knowledge of what needs to be done to live a fit and healthy life?What should we do in response to the fact physical fitness is not equal? (For example, someone who is 6'6 will be much better naturally at swimming, rowing, and basketball for example)If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

In this episode James and Robby discuss the connection between equality and fitness.They discuss issues and questions like the following: -Biology is inherently unfair and unequal. For example:· A biological man could have a child at age 60 or 70 (not ideal but possible) should he choose where the that is not a possibility for biological women· A biological male cannot get pregnant or give birth to a child· A biological male has more absolute strength potential than a biological femaleShould we change or alter things in society to accommodate these facts?If we gain the ability, perhaps in the next 100 years, should we CRISPR to change our underlying biology (e.g., women and men have the same time to have kids)Is the fact that we can't change our biology based on current social mores a bad thing?How should we try to remedy the fact that there is both unequal access to fitness and unequal knowledge of what needs to be done to live a fit and healthy life?What should we do in response to the fact physical fitness is not equal? (For example, someone who is 6'6 will be much better naturally at swimming, rowing, and basketball for example)If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

In this episode James and Robby discuss the connection between the concept of tolerance and fitness.At base level, tolerance is defined as: showing willingness to allow the existence of opinions or behaviors that one does not necessarily agree withSo, how does this relate to fitness/health?There are so many fitness and nutrition fads, cleanses and programs that are money making-schemes, false or outright harmful.What are our responsibilities as fitness professionals to tolerate things with which we disagree?For example, say a fitness client wants to do a 1000 calorie a day diet, but you know that would be harmful. Should you "tolerate" them doing it to let them learn their lesson about how 1000 calories a day is not the right approach long-term?Should we tolerate the existence of fast food, candy bars, and soda even though we know they are objectively bad for our health?Is there a higher good to tolerating fitness practices you disagree with to allow for a variety and diversity of ways of approaching fitness and health?What sorts of actions can and should we take against things we disagree with in the health and fitness realms?Take pickeball and ebikes for example. If we think these are true examples of the erosion of physical fitness how best to we go about combatting them while still tolerating their existence legally?If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

In this episode, James and Robby continue their discussion regarding the connection between ignorance and fitness.In philosophy there is a very antagonistic relationship to ignorance. Philosophy (and science) are attempts in many ways eradicate as much ignorance as possible for as many people as possibleDifferent philosophical takes on ignorance include-The unexamined life is not worth living (Socrates)-Neither is the examined one (MacIntyre-in response to Socrates)-Better to be Socrates unsatisfied than an (ignorant) pig satisfied (Mill)-“Ignorance more frequently begets confidence than does knowledge.” - Charles DarwinBut when it comes to fitness one has to ask what role ignorance should or should not play in it?James and Robby ask and attempt to answer the following questions.Does one need to have special knowledge (e.g., exercise science) to engage in fitness practices?Can someone legitimately claim ignorance today about the factors that lead to optimal health and fitness today?How does the claim that the unexamined life is not worth living apply to the life of fitness in particular?How can/should ignorance be combatted in the modern world when it comes to fitness and health?What responsibility do we have as fitness individuals to educate ourselves (eliminate ignorance) about proper fitness and health practices when those things are no longer our birthright?

In this episode James and Robby explore the connection between humility and fitness.Humility is an admission of one's own limitations.Fitness, by its very nature involves encountering one's own limitations in the physical world.For example if someone can't do a pull-up or run 3 miles continuously that typically involves them eating a slice of humble-pie, in a good way.In this episode they ask and try to answer the following questions about humility and its connection with fitness.-Is fitness a means of achieving or furthering the virtue of humility in one's own life?-How does fitness teach humility?-What are similarities and differences between physical humility (humility about one's own physical capabilities) and intellectual humility?- Every profession has its own share of arrogant jerks, but where does the fitness industry as a whole sit on the continuum of humility?-How has social media and its gigantic intersection with fitness in the past 13 years affected the humility of fitness individuals and fitness coaches?If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

In this episode James and Robby discuss the connection between ignorance and fitness. In philosophy there is a very antagonistic relationship to ignorance. Philosophy (and science) are attempts in many ways eradicate as much ignorance as possible for as many people as possibleDifferent philosophical takes on ignorance include-The unexamined life is not worth living (Socrates)-Neither is the examined one (MacIntyre-in response to Socrates)-Better to be Socrates unsatisfied than an (ignorant) pig satisfied (Mill)-“Ignorance more frequently begets confidence than does knowledge.” - Charles Darwin But when it comes to fitness one has to ask what role ignorance should or should not play in it? James and Robby ask and attempt to answer the following questions. Does one need to have special knowledge (e.g., exercise science) to engage in fitness practices?Can someone legitimately claim ignorance today about the factors that lead to optimal health and fitness today?How does the claim that the unexamined life is not worth living apply to the life of fitness in particular?How can/should ignorance be combatted in the modern world when it comes to fitness and health?What responsibility do we have as fitness individuals to educate ourselves (eliminate ignorance) about proper fitness and health practices when those things are no longer our birthright?

How should the fact that we all die at some point inform our fitness journey? That is the central question of this episode.There's almost a paradox when think of fitness and it's relation to deathOn the one hand, ·for many who engage in health and fitness activities it involves a deep acknowledgement of the fundamental reality of the inevitability of death.And yet, on the other hand, ·engaging in health and fitness activities ultimately involves trying to resist or delay death by any natural means possible.In this episode, James and Robby discuss the following questions:Is it wrong, problematic, irrational for us to engage in physical activities that actively work against longevity/sustainability and/or bring us closer to death sooner? (e.g., olympic lifting, powerlifting, etc.)How should the fact we all die one day inform our fitness journey?If technology ends up extending our lifespan another 50, 100, 200 years, how does that impact our health and fitness journeys?If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

In this episode James and Robby discuss the question, "what do we owe the future?" and how does this relate to health and fitness?When it comes to general life we want to leave people in the future with:-a better overall world than the one we had-a habitable planet-an easier life (to a certain extent)But when it comes to fitness and health unique questions arise when we ask "what do we owe the future" like:-do we have a moral duty as a society to get rid of processed and junk foods?-do we have a duty to not let life get to easy so we still have a connection fitness and our biology?-how should schools and society be set up to best promote health and fitness for generations to come?James and Robby explore these questions and their implications for health and fitness as we know it.If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

There's a very real possibility that in the next 100 years what it means to be human will fundamentally change because of AI and robotics.Yes, what it means to be human has changed throughout history but in terms of our basic biology it's been essentially the same for 10s of thousands of years.Now it is poised to change significantly in the coming couple of centuries.Biology is central to our health and fitness practices, so it stands to reason that if our biology changes our health and fitness outlook will change.In this episode James and Robby explore the following questions related to this idea of "the last of the humans".As we see it there are four main possible scenarios that humans will encounter in the next two centuries each with it's own unique implications for health and fitness.Option #1: Complete Extinction:-No biological human beings exist anymore. Think Terminator, only no humans are left at all.Option #2: Human Beings Coexist with Machines:-Genuine biological human beings coexist with “inorganic minds” (Think Star Trek, Halo, the Matrix, Blade Runner etc.)Option #3: Human Beings merge with machines but still exist in a physical formThink the Borg from Star Trek, Cable from X-Men, or Elon Musk's Neuralink. Here there is still a physical human that has merged with some form of technology.Option #4: SuperintelligenceThink Joaquin Phoenix's “Her” (sort of-humans still exist in that one). The idea here is biological humans are gone and our consciousness is purely digital 0s and 1s. There's no “friction” with the physical world anymore. Immortality and freedom from “dependence on the body” has been achieved.Obviously, every single one of these is a massive change from the world as we know it today.James and Robby explore these scenarios and their implications for health and fitness as we know it.If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

As Alasdair MacIntyre famously said, human beings are dependent rational animals.The "dependent" part is significant.We often fail to see how dependent we are on basic things like food, water, oxygen, social structure, etc.We often crave independence from certain things, but the truth is that at a very deep and fundamental humans are dependent beings.In this episode, where we focus on independence, James and Robby discuss the concept of independence and its relationship with fitness.They ask and attempt to answer the following questions-what is independence?-how much independence are we really capable of as humans? -with regard to fitness are we more independent if we don't utilize are coach or personal trainer?-are we more independent beings if we don't rely on fitness apps and equipment? -is the highest order goal of fitness independence/autonomy?If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

As Alasdair MacIntyre famously said, human beings are dependent rational animals.The "dependent" part is significant.We often fail to see how dependent we are on basic things like food, water, oxygen, social structure, etc.We often crave independence from certain things, but the truth is that at a very deep and fundamental humans are dependent beings.In this episode James and Robby discuss the concept of dependence and its relationship with fitness.They ask and attempt to answer the following questions-what is dependence?-is being dependent good, bad, or morally neutral? Does it depend on the context?-is dependence binary or does it exist on a spectrum?-have we become too dependent in fitness on coaches, apps, programs, etc.?-what are appropriate forms of dependence in the health and wellness space? For example many of us depend on refrigeration, grocery stores, and appliances to make and eat healthy food?-is the highest order goal of fitness independence/autonomy?If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

In this episode, James and Robby explore the connection between the philosophy of Alasdair MacIntyre, and more specifically his book "After Virtue", and its connection with fitness.In his book "After Virtue" MacIntyre asks us to imagine there was some sort of catastrophe by which all of our scientific knowledge came to be destroyed.Eventually enlightened people try to restore that knowledge but all they have are fragments of the past.For example they know objects near the surface of the Earth fall at 9.8m/s2 but they don't know the why behind it (gravity)MacIntyre argues that we are in exactly this situation with regard to the language of morality these days.In this situation what we call modern morality or ethics is divorced from the original intention of morality where the idea was to achieve the highest good one could in this life through being virtuous.How does this connect to fitness?We're actually in a very similar situation with regard to fitness knowledge currently.All we have is fragments of "cardio", "strength", or "vegetables contain fiber" without an overarching framework to unite all those pieces.Although in this case of fitness this overarching framework to unite everything, namely evolutionary biology, does exist few people recognize and follow through with the true implications of it.MacIntyre also argues that the way forward in this type of world for morality is small monastic communities that are "defenders of the faith" so to speak.Similarly with fitness there are small enclaves of people who fight for the "vitality" model of fitness and use evolutionary biology to guide it.If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

Most people would agree that things like rocks, tables, chairs, the sun, and oceans are all real.By real here, we mean something like: these things would exist even if humans didn't exist.But what about social reality?What about things that depend on humanity for their existence and yet have real power and influence?Here are some examples-Money-The presidency of the United States-Laws-The existence of nation statesTake money for example. There's no inherent value or meaning to green pieces of paper (at least in the US) outside the meaning and value that humans have made up.And yet, this doesn't mean it's imaginary either. A person with 1000 green pieces of paper with $100 printed on it wields a considerable amount of actual monetary power in the world.Similarly, if humans didn't exist and have societies there would be no such concept or thing as "President of the United States',And yet, even though humans made it up the person holding that office wields a considerable amount of power.In this episode James and Robby discuss social reality and fitness. They ask and attempt to answer the following questions-What is social reality?-Why is it so important to the world we live in today?-How do social reality and physical reality bump up against each other in fitness?-What about things like points and prizes for fitness which don't have any reality outside of a social context?-There's no movement such as "the Russian Kettlebell Swing" outside of human societal conventions and yet there are objective facts about how humans should hinge their hips, etc.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

Reality is one of the central concepts in philosophy. In fact, one of the most fundamental questions in philosophy is, "What is real?". Philosophers are very frequently trying to distinguish appearance from reality. Fitness provides one of the most direct forms of access to the external world/reality in terms of directly sensing the world around us.Fitness can also provide a direct "reality-check" to what we believe to be true about of ourselves in terms of our physical capabilities. That "reality-check" can serve as an inspiration to get better.In this episode James and Robby ask, and attempt to answer the following questions.What is reality?How does reality "hit" or "push back" against what we believe to be true?Is fitness and physical expression one of the best ways of gaining access to reality?What lessons do we learn as people from confronting physical realities like "I can't do a pull-up" or "I can't a mile? Can these be sources of motivation and inspiration? In a world on the brink of augmented and virtual reality encroaching on the fitness world, what does it mean to engage in "real" fitness? Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

Habits are central to both philosophy and fitness.As far back as the Ancient Greeks, Aristotle famously said"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence therefore is not an act, but a habit."Aristotle in this particular case is talking about virtue, but the point applies equally well to other parts of life, especially health and fitness.One could argue that habits are the central determining factor in success in health and fitness. Here's an example to illustrate the point. Take two people one of whom grew up in a home based on ancestral principles and habits of sleeping at the right times, eating the right foods, moving their body, etc., but they have no scientific knowledge of nutrition science, exercise physiology, etc.Now, take another person who has all the knowledge in the world about nutrition, exercise physiology, etc., but who did not grow up knowing how to properly move his body, cook food, sleep at the right times. In fact that person grew up with negative habits eating junk food, not moving, sleeping too late, etc.Which person has the better chance of being healthy? Is it even a question?Of course, it's person 1.This example shows just how important habits are for health and fitness.In this episode James and Robby ask and attempt to answer the following questions.-How can health and fitness habits make us better people?-Why are health and fitness habits the most important to cultivate compared to professional or financial habits?-Why is the health and fitness industry obsessed with short term outcomes as opposed to long-term habits?-How are thoughts and feeling related to habits?-Why short cuts don't work when it comes to habits?Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

Most of our life, technology, and progress is centered around the idea of making life easier. Think about things like Door Dash, sleeping pills, and self-driving cars.But a central question that comes up is: Is an easier life necessarily a better life?It seems that as humans we're hard-wired to need some difficulty, challenge, or struggle to live a full and meaningful life.In this episode James and Robby discuss the extent to which ease and difficulty play a role in fitness and our lives in general. They ask and attempt to answer questions like:-In a world where things have become so "easy" that it's actually "difficult" to lead a healthy life, how do we get back to healthy living?-Even if we wanted to we can't mimic the struggles of the past, so what we should do in the modern world to have some difficulty or challenge?-Should the purpose of fitness be to "rake ourselves over the coals" so to speak on a daily basis with overwhelming challenges?If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

Beauty in philosophy is considered one of the ultimately values like justice, truth, knowledge, and goodness.One of the central goals of most people in engaging in fitness is to look better, or to cultivate physical beauty.In this episode James and Robby ask and give their answer the following questionsWhat makes beauty worth pursuing?Is beauty just "appearance" that hides a deeper "reality"Is beauty in the eye of the beholder (subjective) or out there in the world? (objective)How does the modern fitness industry influence standards of beauty?How closely are physical fitness, evolution and natural beauty tied to one another?Can obsessive pursuit of (external) beauty via extreme forms of fitness make us (internally) ugly?If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

What is a legacy?At the most basic level it's what we leave to future generations of people.When it comes to a legacy with regard to fitness, the question becomes:What do we owe the future when it comes to the world of fitness and health that we give to future generations?In this podcast, James and Robby ask and attempt to answer the following questions.-Is all we should be doing in fitness and health studying the legacy of our ancestors?-Are our current health and fitness practices tarnishing the legacy of our ancestors?-How is our own personal legacy determined? Is the last things we say and do? The sum of all our actions? Our best work?-What actions and practices do we need to adopt now to leave a beautiful health and fitness legacy to future generations?-Does there need to be a new legacy created to incorporate fitness into the modern world? The old world isn't coming back barring something catastrophicIf you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

Since the release of ChapterGPT in late 2022, interest and discussion around Artificial Intelligence has exploded.Why?There are so many societal and ethical implications around the development of AI such as:-Will it lead to the end of all work?-How can we tell appearance from reality when AI is getting so good at mimicking reality?-Is AI essentially stealing the work of genuine creatives without any credit or attribution?In part 2 of the discussion we ask and attempt to answer the following questions. -Will AI entirely replace fitness coaches? If so, what are the implications of this?-AI as it currently exists is missing things like intention, deep understanding, relationships, values, critical thinking, etc. How does this impact the information it provides about fitness?-Could AI help a fitness coach deliver a better service to clients?-Could AI help with societal health by analyzing data on a massive society-wide scale?-How important is the coach/client relationship and could AI ever replace that? If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

Since the release of ChapterGPT in late 2022, interest and discussion around Artificial Intelligence has exploded. Why? There are so many societal and ethical implications around the development of AI such as: -Will it lead to the end of all work?-How can we tell appearance from reality when AI is getting so good at mimicking reality?-Is AI essentially stealing the work of genuine creatives without any credit or attribution?In the fitness world, the development of AI leads to very interesting questions as well like: -Will AI be a net positive or net negative for the health and fitness world? -Will ChatGPT just regurgitate inaccurate information? What about contradictory/forbidden opinions like eggs are actually heart healthy and grains are not? -What will something like ChatGPT accommodate conflicting answers or differing opinions on unsettled health and fitness questions?-When you ask ChatGPT "what is the best fitness program?" how does it answer that question without knowing your particular values?-AI is being developed by massive companies. How will the influence of these massive companies influence the health and fitness world? If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link. https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

In the second part of their discussion about human nature, James and Robby continue to investigate the connection between human nature and fitness.They ask and attempt to answer the following questions.What is human nature?Is there an essence to humans that applies across all places and times?What is the balance of nature vs. nurture in human beings?How much of a part of our human nature is fitness?If fitness is such a natural part of our human nature why is it so neglected these days?When it comes to our human nature how should that influence how we try to get as many people as possible involved in fitness?If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link.https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy

In this episode, James and Robby investigate the connection between human nature and fitness. They ask and attempt to answer the following questions. What is human nature?Is there an essence to humans that applies across all places and times? What is the balance of nature vs. nurture in human beings?How much of a part of our human nature is fitness? If fitness is such a natural part of our human nature why is it so neglected these days?When it comes to our human nature how should that influence how we try to get as many people as possible involved in fitness? If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link. https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy

What makes you engage in fitness? For many people it's the rewards that as a result of engaging in fitness like looking better, feeling better, and performing better. For people who participate in sports it's things like pleasure, points, and prizes. In this episode James explore the idea of rewards and its relation to fitness. They ask and attempt to answer the following questions.What is a reward?What's the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic rewards? What role do rewards currently play in the fitness world?How should we think about rewards and their relation to fitness? What role should rewards play in the coach and client relationship? If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link. https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy

A prominent feature of any modern society is the notion of punishment or retribution for any wrongdoing. Whether it's jail, fines, public humiliation and ostracism punishment is a central feature of certain aspects of modern society.In this episode James and Robby ask and attempt to answer the following question with respect to punishment and fitness:-What is punishment?-Why do we punish someone after the act has already been committed?-What makes punishment justified or unjustified?-What relationship does punishment have to fitness and what relationship should it have?-How have sports and the idea of "no pain, no gain" how we think about punishment and its relationship to fitness?-What can we do to help fitness individuals realize they don't need to punish themselves with fitness by saying things like "If I eat pizza, I need to do a workout to burn it off"If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link. https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy

When the internet first became widely used people assumed that more information is always better.Few people today would take genuinely take that stance especially with the rise and rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation as a result of the speed of the internet.What is misinformation? False or misleading information spread mistakenly or unintentionally What is disinformation? False information which is intended to mislead, especially propaganda issued by a government organization to a rival power of the media In this episode James and Robby discuss and attempt to answer the following questions.How do misinformation and disinformation play a role in fitness today?What can the fitness individual do to guard themselves against misinformation in the health and fitness realm today?What is the role of fitness coaches in combating misinformation/disinformation?When it comes to the fitness collective should we let people engage in whatever fitness practice they want even if it is false and harmful or institute a more stringent restriction on fitness practices? If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link. https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy·

In this episode, James and Robby discuss the the concept of information and how it relations to fitness.They discuss questions like:-is all the information we're getting from fitness devices about our health and wellness useful or problematic?-what information with respect to our fitness and health should we pay attention to?-what information can improve the fitness coach/client relationship?-what fitness/health information should be imparted to kids when they are growing up to improve the fitness collective. -how do we acquire information?-is more information always better?-how useful is raw data without any context?If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link. https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy

In Part 2 of their discussion, James and Robby continue their conversation on personal identity and fitness.One of the central, perennial philosophical questions is the question of personal identity.Questions like the following are central to the personal identity question:-Who am I?-What makes me me as opposed to someone or something else?-Am I my body? Am I my thoughts? Am I my continuous consciousness?-Clearly our bodies, thoughts, and consciousness change throughout life so what makes us, us over time?How does this all relate to fitness? Well, we can ask questions like:-How closely connected are the body and mind to who we are?-Does fitness strengthen the connection between the body and the mind?-What does physical fitness or engaging in health practices to cultivate the body teach us about who we are?-How is fitness linked to the idea of thinking great thoughts?-Are those who engage in physical fitness smarter or more, well-adjusted people?If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link. https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy

In this episode James and Robby discuss the connection personal identity and fitness.One of the central, perennial philosophical questions is the question of personal identity. Questions like the following are central to the personal identity question:-Who am I?-What makes me me as opposed to someone or something else?-Am I my body? Am I my thoughts? Am I my continuous consciousness?-Clearly our bodies, thoughts, and consciousness change throughout life so what makes us, us over time?How does this all relate to fitness? Well, we can ask questions like:-How closely connected are the body and mind to who we are?-Does fitness strengthen the connection between the body and the mind?-What does physical fitness or engaging in health practices to cultivate the body teach us about who we are?-How is fitness linked to the idea of thinking great thoughts?-Are those who engage in physical fitness smarter or more, well-adjusted people?If you like the show, please leave us a review. They really do help.Have any thoughts, comments or questions? You can email us at fitnessinphilosophy@gmail.comWant to purchase Fitness in Philosophy T-Shirts? You can purchase them from the following link. https://www.teepublic.com/user/fitness-in-philosophy

A lot of modern culture is centered around the notion of authenticity or being authentic. But what does it meant to be authentic?In Part 2 of the Authenticity series, James and Robby build on their discussion from Part 1 and attempt to answer the following questions regarding authenticity and its relationship with fitness. What is authenticity? What does it mean to be to be true to oneself?How do autonomy and authenticity relate to one another? What is authentic fitness?How can fitness play a role in helping us get in touch with our authentic selves?What are the best ways to approach inauthenticity in the health and fitness space? The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin.About the Hosts:James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.com Robby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

A lot of modern culture is centered around the notion of authenticity or being authentic. But what does it meant to be authentic?In this episode James and Robby attempt to answer the following questions regarding authenticity and its relationship with fitness. What is authenticity? What does it mean to be to be true to oneself?How do autonomy and authenticity relate to one another? What is authentic fitness?How can fitness play a role in helping us get in touch with our authentic selves?What are the best ways to approach inauthenticity in the health and fitness space? The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin.About the Hosts:James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.com Robby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

Does modern technology help us in our quest to get fit and healthy? Or is technology a distraction from time-honored principles of eating healthy, moving your body, getting enough sleep, etc.? In a continuation of our discussion from Technology and Fitness Part 1 we ask and try to answer the following questions -Has technology had an overall positive or overall negative influence on the practice of fitness? -How do we educate people that just because a device spits out a particular number (for example, total calories burned) that may be completely inaccurate and untrustworthy? -What are the privacy implications of gigantic tech corporations knowing everything about our sleep patterns, heart rate, stress level, eating habits, fitness practices, etc.? The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin.About the Hosts:James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.com Robby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

Does modern technology help us in our quest to get fit and healthy?Or is technology a distraction from time-honored principles of eating healthy, moving your body, getting enough sleep, etc.?In this episode we explore technology's connection with fitness by asking questions like:-What role will artificial intelligence play in health and fitness in the coming years?-Are fitness devices like smartwatches and bands helpful in our quest for fitness and health?-What are the implications of gigantic tech companies collecting all our health data and having access to our private information?-Does more technology mean more progress?-Very often we think "yes", but when it comes to health and fitness the answer may be the opposite. Is fitness "fitness" anymore if it's done in the metaverse or virtual realm?The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large.It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin.About the Hosts:James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.comRobby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

How can we know the right thing for us to do and yet fail to do it?For example pretty much everyone knows it's better to: -exercise rather than not exercise-eat healthy food vs eating processed food-not smoke vs. smokeAnd yet there are literally millions of people who don't exercise, eat junk food, and smoke. How is this possible? This is the central discussion of this episode. It's an extremely relevant question today for the health and fitness industry but the question goes all the way back to Plato and Aristotle and the idea of "akrasia" or weakness of will. Plato and Aristotle wondered why it is that someone can know the right, rational, or better thing for them to do to lead a happy life and yet fail to do it. The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin.About the Hosts:James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.comRobby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

In this episode, we discuss the following questions about subjectivity and its connection with fitness-What is subjectivity?-What is the connection between subjectivity and our lived human experience?-What's the importance of subjectivity, things like emotions, beliefs, opinions, feelings, in fitness?-Can our subjective experience of how we feel override objective data in fitness? For example if your fitness tracker says your recovery is poor (objective), but you're feeling great (subjective), which one should you listen to?-With the explosion of fitness devices, trackers, and data are we losing our connection to our own human subjectivity and intuition?The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin.About the Hosts:James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.comRobby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

In this episode, we discuss the following questions about objectivity and its connection with fitness-What is objectivity?-Why is the connection between science and objectivity?-How does objectivity in fitness help us determine what's real and what's fake?-Should there be objective standards within fitness (for example reaching for a 2x bodyweight deadlift)?-How can objectivity play a role in driving fitness policy and education for children?The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin.About the Hosts:James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.comRobby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

In this episode, we discuss the following questions about business ethics and its connection with fitness -What are ethics and how does they relate to the practice of fitness? -Why are ethics important in business? -What are ethical and unethical practices within the business of fitness? -How can we balance the need of a fitness business for recurring profit with the idea that a fitness individual shouldn't need a coach long-term? -In terms of licensure, who should be allowed to be a fitness coach and who should not? The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin. About the Hosts: James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.com Robby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

In this episode, we discuss the following questions about simplicity and its connection with fitness -What is simplicity? -Why is simplicity important in our lives? -What is the importance of simplicity when it comes to our health and fitness practices? -Have corporations made fitness, health, and nutrition needlessly complex in an effort to get us to pay for their services? -If we boiled done fitness and nutrition to their most simple elements what would that look like?The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin. About the Hosts: James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.com Robby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

In this episode, we discuss the following questions. -Is the way we exercise today ultimately folly/absurd?-What is folly/absurdity?-Which activities that we engage in in life have meaning vs. the ones that are absurd/folly?-Is fitness just a means to an end to a meaningful life?-What's the connection between absurdity, folly, existentialism, and nihilism? The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin. About the Hosts: James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.com Robby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

In this episode of the Fitness in Philosophy podcast James and Robby turn their attention to the concept of meaning and its connection with fitness. In this episode, we discuss the following questions. -What is meaning? -What is the meaning of life and how have philosophers tried to answer this question?-Where does fitness sit in the hierarchy or meaning of your life?-Is fitness just a means to an end to a meaningful life? -How can a fitness coach help a fitness client learn more about what they consider meaningful in their lives? -The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin. About the Hosts: James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.com Robby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

In this episode of the Fitness in Philosophy podcast James and Robby turn their attention to the concept of tradition and its connection with fitness.In this episode, we discuss the following questions.-What is tradition?-What are the benefits and drawbacks of following traditions?-What's the connection between philosophy and tradition?-Should one adopt a certain fitness practice because that's what's been done traditionally (e.g., walking and lifting rocks)?-What is the significance of different traditions within fitness (e.g., running, powerlifting, gymnastics, etc.)?-How should we view the tradition, within fitness today, of setting a New Year's resolution each year?The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin.About the Hosts: James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.comRobby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

In this episode of the Fitness in Philosophy podcast James and Robby turn their attention to the concept of progress and its connection with fitness.In this episode, we discuss the following questions.-What is progress?-Is progress always good?-Do certain activities that humans engage in involve progress while others do not?-Can there be any true progress in fitness?-Are all the attempts at progress in fitness ultimately folly?The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin. About the Hosts:James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.comRobby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

In this episode of the Fitness in Philosophy podcast James and Robby turn their attention to the concept of geography and its connection with fitness. In this episode, we discuss the following questions. -Why do different cultures and geographies have different fitness practices? -Which fitness practices are common to all geographies? -Do the differences or commonalities among geographical fitness practices have any bearing on what fitness practices we should adopt today? -Are there any fitness practices that are objectively better (or worse) than others or is just different strokes for different folks? -Are the differences in fitness practices in different geographies interesting, but ultimately trivial? Or do they have a deeper significance? The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin. About the Hosts: James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.com Robby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

In this episode of the Fitness in Philosophy podcast James and Robby turn their attention to the concept of evolution and his connection with fitness. In this episode, we discuss the following questions. -What are the basics of evolution?-What deep philosophical questions does the theory of evolution raise for who we are as human beings?-How closely should our fitness practices mirror our evolutionary fitness practices? -How does physical fitness influence key evolutionary concepts like survival and reproduction? -What role does the "evolutionary mismatch" theory have on how we discuss human health? The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin. About the Hosts: James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.com Robby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach.

In this episode of the Fitness in Philosophy podcast James and Robby are joined by special guest OPEX CCP Coach Brandon Wilton.This is the final episode in our series on disagreements in fitness. In this final episode of the discussion we discuss the following questions. -What role does disagreement play in the fitness profession? Does it help move the profession forward or does it hold things back? -What role does social media play in amplifying or resolving disagreement in fitness? -What are the proper forums for disagreement in the fitness realm? Podcasts? Facebook comments? In-Person? -To what extent can/should coaches disagree with their clients and how should that disagreement be framed within the coach/client relationship.The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin. About the Hosts: James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.com Robby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach. You can connect with him on Instagram at the handle @cfsbnutrition.

In this episode of the Fitness in Philosophy podcast James and Robby are joined by special guest Brandon Wilton. The topic of the podcast on this episode is disagreements within fitness. They ask and attempt to answer the following questions in the episode: -Do fitness coaches have an obligation to disagree with other fitness coaches and call out bad ideas? -If we disagree with someone in the fitness realm what is the most appropriate way to disagree with one another? -Does how we disagree with one another depend on who is disagreeing with whom? (Coach to Coach, Coach to Client) What are the ways in which disagreement in fitness can be beneficial or detrimental? The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin. About the Hosts: James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.com Robby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach. You can connect with him on Instagram at the handle @cfsbnutrition.

In this episode of the Fitness in Philosophy podcast James and Robby turn their attention to the concept of experience and its relationship with fitness. They ask and attempt to answer the following questions in the episode: What is disagreement and why is it important?How can we respectfully disagree with those who we think are just as rational as us?What role does disagreement play in the fitness world?What should we practically do if we disagree with others in the fitness world?What's the best forum for disagreeing with others in fitness? Social Media? In-Person? Long-Form Zoom Call? The Fitness in Philosophy podcast is dedicated to discussing the intersection between concepts in philosophy and their connection with fitness. Each episode we talk about a particular philosophical concept like autonomy, knowledge, virtue, truth, etc. and discuss how that idea connects with coaching fitness, participating in fitness as an individual, and fitness culture at large. It is hosted by James FitzGerald and Robby Gustin. About the Hosts: James FitzGerald is the founder and owner of OPEX Fitness, and he was the first-ever men's CrossFit® Games champion in 2007. He's one of the world's most in-demand experts on coaching mindset and training. James is also the leader of the individual design movement in the fitness world. He firmly believes that individual design programs are the only way that a coach and client can build the relationship and trust necessary to progress a client's fitness for a lifetime. You can find out more about James and OPEX Fitness at opexfit.com Robby Gustin holds a BA in philosophy from Columbia University and a PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame. He is currently head nutrition coach at CFSB Nutrition, a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Health Coach, and an OPEX CCP Coach. You can connect with him on Instagram at the handle @cfsbnutrition.