Physical Sovereignty

There’s something important about being capable in your own body.

Not bodybuilding. Not performance athletics. Just the baseline ability to do things: carry loads, move quickly when needed, endure discomfort.

The 5BX revelation

I discovered the 5BX program almost by accident. It’s a Canadian Air Force exercise system from the 1960s, designed for busy people who need to maintain fitness without equipment or gym access.

What struck me was the philosophy. Eleven minutes a day. No excuses. No equipment. Just progressive difficulty and consistency.

Outdoors

I do almost all my training outside now. Cold water, hills, carrying things. The gym started feeling artificial — like training for training’s sake rather than for actual capability.

There’s a clarity that comes from training in the elements. You’re reminded that your body exists in the world, not separate from it.

Sovereignty

I use the word “sovereignty” deliberately. Financial sovereignty means controlling your own money. Physical sovereignty means controlling your own body.

Both require ongoing attention. Both are worth the effort.