A special thanks to Chris Cerino for his insight on this article and always pushing me to be one click better. If you read further, keep in mind that we care deeply for all. As Chris would say, “I don’t yell out of anger. I yell because I care.”
I’ve always attempted to maintain a high standard of physical fitness. I’m not David Goggins, Tim Kennedy, Lanny Barnes or name your favorite CrossFit athlete. However, I'm in the gym 5 days a week and run at least 12-16 miles weekly. I'm also active in jiu-jitsu and train at Range Ready Studios. With all that training, I still believe I am behind the curve regarding personal health and being ready for the SHTF. How ready are you?
Imagine this: you're hiking in a beautiful national park when, suddenly, disaster strikes. A storm rolls in, the path becomes treacherous, and you must rely on your physical capabilities to reach safety. For many Americans, this scenario might seem like a scene from a movie—a thrilling but unrealistic situation. However, real-life emergencies, whether natural disasters or personal health crises happen and, often demand a level of physical fitness that, shockingly, most Americans don’t possess.
When people think of disasters, they primarily visualize hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, or floods, However, having power shut down for weeks, an attack on my family, or a disaster that impacts my personal safety is just as likely. Understanding violence and having the physical ability to survive is critical for the latter. I fear for your safety and well-being. That being said…don’t hate me for what I’m about to tell you.
The average ego in America fights at an MMA level. However, most physical and fighting capabilities are closer to those of a teenager than those of a grown adult.
I’ve seen it firsthand. Jiu Jitsu isn’t for the faint of heart. I’ve had big, hulking guys enter the gym and get owned by the 115-pound female purple belt. It’s a scary endeavor when you’re the hulking dude getting owned. That was me seven years ago, minus the hulking part, but full of ego. I always believed I could turn it on, but that never happened as I slowly passed out for the 15th time. I’ve been submitted more times than orders taken at McDonald's. Humbling, to say the least.
We overestimate our abilities, and our inflated egos get the best of us. We lie to ourselves daily. We tell ourselves lies like, “I’ll just be able to turn it on.” “I’ve got that dog in me.” “I’ll turn on the mean gene when the time comes.” “Don’t mess with me, I never know how I’ll act.” REALLY? We’ve all heard these sayings before. Probably even said them.
How often do you train? Training something regularly is far different than just turning it on? All motor skills are perishable. You don't magically gain skills and abilities at the drop of the hat. The street is a poor place to improvise. It just doesn't work like that.
If you've been on the fence about getting in fighting shape and increasing your skills, let's look at the general statistics on American health.
A Nation Unprepared
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that only about 23% of adults in the United States meet the recommended guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening activity. These guidelines suggest at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity and two days of muscle-strengthening activities per week. Yet, nearly 80% of adults fall short, leaving them unprepared for any physically demanding situation.
Physical preparedness isn't just about aesthetics or fitting into last summer's jeans. It’s about survival. The obesity epidemic, which affects approximately 42.4% of American adults, significantly compromises the ability to perform in emergencies. This excess weight is not merely a cosmetic issue; it increases the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension, which further diminish physical capabilities.
The Grim Statistics
These statistics paint a dire picture of the nation's physical preparedness and ability to endure when it matters most. When survival hinges on the ability to run, lift, or even walk long distances, many Americans might find themselves helpless.
The Consequences of Complacency
Consider a scenario where you must evacuate quickly due to a natural disaster. Floodwaters are rising, and you need to wade through chest-high water, climb over debris, or carry a loved one to safety. The reality is stark: if you’re not physically fit, you might not survive, let alone be able to help others.
In personal health emergencies, the story is similar. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, with one person dying every 36 seconds. Regular physical activity reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases, yet most Americans remain sedentary. This lack of fitness can mean the difference between life and death.
When Chris Cerino had stage four cancer, in his late 40’s, he would likely have not survived had he not been in decent shape. His consistent efforts to be above average, both cardiological and muscularly, saved his life in the end. Having a strong mind isn’t always enough. Physical fitness increases your odds. As Chris says, consistent mediocrity wins the day.
A Call to Action
The message is clear: the time for complacency is over. Physical preparedness should be a priority for everyone, not just athletes or fitness enthusiasts. Incorporating regular exercise into daily routines, focusing on both aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities, and addressing the obesity epidemic through better nutrition are key steps. I’m not advocating for you to become some super athlete or even become the next World Champion Jiu Jitsu practitioner. All I am asking is you begin taking steps to overcome your shortcomings to become better prepared for you…and your family.
It’s not easy, but you can make fitness a part of daily life. Running the push mower with vigor, taking the stairs when available and parking farther away all count and add up. When you walk, walk with a purpose rather than moseying along. Do some morning calisthenics. Push-ups, sit-ups and free squats all get the blood flowing and the joints moving. Even if you can only do five at a time. Doing several sets for 30 minutes every morning, is way more than doing nothing. Heck, even cutting out the carbonated drinks or alcohol would be an incredible change.
Take up shooting and trying in local shooting matches. That would help build a skill and get the ol’ heart rate up. Pressure is a beautiful thing to motivate the body to act.
In a world of uncertainties, one thing remains within our control: physical health. Preparing for life's unexpected challenges means taking responsibility for our fitness. The statistics are sobering, but they also serve as a wake-up call. The ability to survive, to protect oneself and loved ones, and to face life's hurdles head-on starts with physical preparedness. Let's realize the importance of fitness before a crisis. Our lives depend on it. ~ KJ
KJ
Kevin Jarnagin (KJ) hails from Oklahoma but quickly established Louisiana roots after joining the Gun Talk team. KJ grew up as a big game hunter and often finds himself in a different venture. His early career had him working with one of the finest PR agencies in the outdoor industry – Blue Heron Communications. Before that, KJ molded the minds of business school students at the University of Oklahoma. Quickly learning he had to grow up sometime, KJ dedicated himself to the outdoors no matter what it took.
Sporting his flat-brimmed cap, KJ traverses the country in pursuit of the greatest game and best adventures. Whether it’s making his way to British Columbia for elk or training with pistols, KJ always seems to find a gun in his hands and adventure on his mind. KJ is a skilled communicator and connector in an industry that he has loved since a child.
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