Ed Gemdjian: A Week of Fitness for Life and Fun
In a world obsessed with sculpted abs and rapid weight loss, Ed Gemdjian’s approach to fitness stands as a refreshing reminder of what holistic health truly means. As the general manager of The Gym Venice, specializing in training people over 40, Gemdjian’s 20-year career in the fitness industry has taught him that exercise isn’t just about achieving aesthetic goals but about fostering joy, functionality, and overall well-being.
Since turning 40, Gemdjian has pivoted his focus towards sustainable movement. “My goal has just been to be healthy enough and move well enough to jump into anything that seems like fun,” he explains, echoing a sentiment found in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, which reminds us that our bodies are temples. This principle resonates deeply, encouraging believers to care for their physical health as a form of honoring God.
A Week in Workouts
Gemdjian’s weekly routine incorporates both strength training and ample recovery time, a crucial balance he emphasizes as we age:
- Monday: A dedicated rest day focusing on recovery and stretching.
- Tuesday: Morning strength training, balancing slow, controlled movements with explosive lifts. In the evening, he coaches a jiujitsu class.
- Wednesday: Another rest day dedicated to mobility exercises.
- Thursday: A 45-minute functional strength training session, followed by an evening jiujitsu class.
- Friday: An optional 30-minute strength workout concentrating on accessory muscles.
- Saturday: Engaging in an MMA class and sparring.
- Sunday: Teaching a jiujitsu class, reinforcing skills and community.
Gemdjian’s approach illustrates the value of rest and nourishment, reflecting the biblical principle of balance in life. "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28) reminds us of the importance of recovery—not just physically, but spiritually and emotionally.
Five Tips for Sustainable Exercise
As Gemdjian navigates his fitness journey, he offers five key tips for maintaining a sustainable exercise routine, especially as we age:
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Take Extra Recovery Days: Allow your body the time it needs to rejuvenate. This aligns with the rhythm of rest God established.
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Focus on Controlled Movements: Prioritize control during workouts, which enhances safety and effectiveness—much like practicing self-discipline in faith.
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Incorporate Optional Sessions: Flexibility is essential. Being open to adjustments can reflect God’s grace in our lives.
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Consider a Personal Trainer: Seeking guidance can provide motivation and accountability, similar to the fellowship we find in community.
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Set Non-Aesthetic Goals: Pursue joy and fun in physical activities, much like pursuing character growth rather than mere appearances.
A Call to Reflect
In a world often focused on immediate results, Gemdjian’s philosophy encourages us to rethink our approaches not only to fitness but to various aspects of life. Instead of striving solely for external validation, pursuing goals rooted in joy and functionality allows us to enjoy the journey and strengthen our overall health.
As you consider your own fitness or life goals, reflect on the balance between body, spirit, and community. How can embracing a holistic view of health enrich your life? Remember, “For in Him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28)—a powerful reminder that our physical efforts are to be integrated with our spiritual purpose.
Ultimately, let us aim not just for physical wellness, but for joy and purpose that transcends the surface, enriching our bodies as vessels to serve a greater calling.
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