“The resistance that you fight physically in the gym and the resistance that you fight in life can only build a strong character.” – Arnold Schwartzenneger
Aerial Dance has some of the most badass women I’ve ever met, and I’m not just talking about studio tricks. When we think of strength, many of us picture defined muscles and intense workouts. But physical strength and mental strength are so deeply interconnected, influencing and reinforcing each other in a myriad of ways. As we train our bodies to build muscle and endurance, we also train our minds to increase resilience, focus, and determination. The connection between the two is powerful — overcoming physical challenges often results in mental growth, while developing mental toughness can help us push through physical obstacles.
At the studio, pushing through fatigue, overcoming discomfort, and staying committed to attaining our goals requires mental fortitude. It’s way too easy to give up instead of continuing to push through. Similarly, the challenges we face in life — stress, setbacks, and adversity — can be managed more effectively when we cultivate mental strength. Physical exercise is a perfect training ground for this, as it forces us to confront and work through difficulties in real-time. Every time we push past our limits during a workout, we prove to ourselves that we are capable of more than we initially thought, which boosts our mental resilience.
On any given day at the studio, you may be standing next to a woman who is grieving, facing a life-changing decision, or feeling lost in general. Or you may be that woman, working on your physical strength because you need that extra mental push.
On the flip side, developing mental strength helps us approach physical challenges with a better mindset. A positive, determined attitude can make even the toughest workouts feel more manageable. As we continue to work on both our body and mind, we see that the strength we build in one area translates to the other. Ultimately, physical and mental strength are not separate entities. They work together to help us become the best, most badass versions of ourselves!
