I was thrilled when John and Patrick asked me to be the Fitness Nerd columnist for Functional Nerds. I knew exactly what I wanted to write about in my first post.

Stereotypes follow all of us around. I don’t think I really have to explain this to fans of the Functional Nerd podcast.  I want to talk about the stereotype that is number one on my pet peeve list which is the belief that incredibly intelligent, creative type people (dare I say, nerds) cannot also be fit people. Just because you’re a writer, artist, or creative person, does not mean you can’t also be athletic and healthy. Conversely, just because you become more athletic, lean out, gain some muscle or improve your cardiovascular health, does not mean your IQ is going to drop. It’s just the opposite.

I’m here to tell you that as an intelligent person, YOU should know better! Strong in body really does mean stronger in mind. If your body is not functioning at its very best, how can you expect your brain to? If you’re not getting enough sleep, if you’re supplying your body with the wrong type of fuel, it’s going to affect your brain function which relates to the quantity and quality of the art you will be able to produce.

Let’s face it. If someone is strong, no amount of strength is going to make them smart. However, if you’re smart, you can get strong.

I can hear the excuses already. Oh, but I don’t have the time to work out and eat healthy. Oh, but I can’t afford the gym. Oh, I hate working out. Oh, but I’m so uncoordinated. Oh, but I’m too old to start now. The list of excuses goes on and on, but they’re just excuses, not reasons. Truly, there is no reason to be unhealthy. You have every reason to change your habits to focus on your overall well being. You don’t have to be the best or win a trophy or prove anything to anyone. This is about quality and length of life. (stay tuned for my next column where I’ll deal with all these excuses and more!)

Yes, many of the authors and artists you know might be overweight. Many of your friends might be inactive and don’t care to change. That doesn’t mean you have to follow the same pattern. Do you think they’ll respect you less if you decide to focus on living a long, healthy and functional life? If they do, it’s time to ditch those friends. More than likely, they’ll cheer you on in your efforts and they might even be inspired by your example to do the same.

Do you want to live long enough to write a five book series? Do you want to have the energy to finish your projects to your utmost potential? Please, get away from your desk, get up off the couch. Bring your book and read it on the stationary bike. Go for a walk and let your creative side run free, you’ll be amazed at what it can come up with while you exercise. Don’t buy into the flawed thinking that you can’t be smart AND fit. Remember, brains and brawn should go together!