36 reasons to forever be an athlete

Today, November 9, was my 36th birthday.  I celebrated it with my arm in a sling from a rotator cuff surgery performed almost 3 weeks ago.  I'm not exactly the happiest person in the world right now but I know it's a means to an end.  I know that I will be good as new in no time as long as I rest it, let it heal, and do my PT exercises as rx'd.  Last year for my 35th birthday I did 5 rounds of 35 burpees and 35 kb swings with a 2 pood kb.  I was pretty spent at the end of it.  I wanted to do the same for this year except make it 36 reps.  Obviously that can't happen so I'm going to do 5 rounds of 36 lunges each leg and 36 flutter kicks each leg.  I know, not too crazy but I'm kind of limited right now.  But I have to do something.  I will always stay true to the way I am programmed and the way all humans have been bred, active.

Sometimes we lose track of why we move, exercise, compete, or simply play.  Sure, we always remember  that we enjoy it.  But there are so many other reasons why we NEED to be this way.  That brings me to my point for today.  I'm going to list 36 reasons why everyone should forever be an athlete.

1. The need for competition
2. The release of endorphins
3. Muscles are sexy
4. Camaraderie in the gym
5. Healthy bones
6. Mobility is good
7. Stability is good
8. Age gracefully
9. Strong heart
10. Increase testosterone production...
11. ...leading to increased sexual drive
12. Lower risk of cancer
13. Lower risk of heart disease
14. Lower risk of diabetes
15. Lower risk of osteoporosis
16. It's cool to say you've run a marathon
17. It's even cooler to say you've done an Ironman
18. Being able to deadlift 2x my bodyweight is fun
19. Increases confidence
20. Increases attention to detail
21. Increases mental strength
22. Teaches goal setting
23. Feeling young is good
24. Teenagers misjudge you on the basketball court
25. Set a good example for your own kids
26. Increased energy
27. Lower body fat
28. Increases mental focus
29. Reduces depression and anxiety
30. Helps with insomnia
31. Lowers blood pressure
32. Helps control blood glucose
33. Your strong muscles will help you move the furniture in your house
34. Improves lung capacity
35. Strengthens your heart
36. You simply feel better