The photo reminds me of the Queen of Hearts, whose Rule 42 is also important

As I have mentioned before, I have three basic rules for living*.  Today I want to talk about Rule 2 as it applies to fitness.  Rule 2 is “Use Your Good Judgment.”

The last days have been hot.  An appropriate application of Rule 2 in these circumstances might include drinking extra water, choosing to exercise in an air-conditioned space, perhaps opting for swimming.  Watching for signs of heat exhaustion could also be useful.

Even when we are not in the middle of a heat wave, Rule 2 has fitness usefulness.  Rule 2 is what helps us decide if we are merely uncomfortable because we are challenging ourselves or actually experiencing pain that could damage us.  Rule 2 weighs our fatigue and stress from work against the elation of a completed workout.  Rule 2 considers how we will feel about all that ice cream tomorrow.

We are in charge.  We get to decide.  Rule 2 helps us do that well.

* Rule 1 is “Don’t Be a Jerk,” or, as my daughter-in-law rephrased it more positively, “Be Kind.”  Rule 3 is “No Sangria Ever, Under Any Circumstances.” It was created because apparently the first two rules were not as comprehensive as I had hoped.