Exercise is more important than diet for me because it's a

Hear, O children of wisdom, the words of Aaron Schock, a man who understood the ancient and vital truth that the balance of mind, body, and spirit is the foundation of strength. "Exercise is more important than diet for me because it's a twofer," he says. "It keeps me in good physical shape, and it relieves stress. And when you're a representative of the public, there's never a shortage of things to do." In these simple yet profound words lies a key to understanding the power of movement, the deep connection between the body and the mind, and the necessity of maintaining balance in all things.

In the days of old, the great heroes and warriors did not solely rely on their intellect or their ability to speak with eloquence. They knew that the strength of their bodies was as crucial as the strength of their minds. From Achilles to Alexander the Great, the greatest figures in history maintained their prowess through exercise—be it through the training of their bodies in battle or through the cultivation of strength and agility. To be a true leader, they understood, one must first be strong in body, for it is the body that carries the spirit, and only a healthy vessel can withstand the weight of great responsibility.

Aaron Schock’s words reflect this ancient truth: that exercise is a "twofer"—it is both a means of physical strength and a balm for the mind. In his life, as in the lives of many leaders, the demands of leadership are relentless, and the mind can become clouded with the pressures of the world. The role of a representative of the public is one that requires clarity, decisiveness, and the ability to remain calm amidst chaos. But how can a man maintain these virtues if his body is weak or his mind is burdened with stress? Here, the act of exercise becomes both a sword and a shield—it strengthens the body while offering relief from the weight of responsibility.

There is an ancient story of Sparta, a society founded on the principles of strength and discipline. The Spartans were not only warriors but philosophers of the body. They believed that the body and mind were intertwined—strong body, strong mind—and to train one without the other was a fatal mistake. Young Spartan warriors were subjected to rigorous physical training from an early age, learning not only how to wield weapons but also how to endure hardship, how to embrace pain and find clarity in the face of it. They understood that without physical strength, the mind would falter in battle. Exercise was the crucible in which they were forged, allowing them to lead with courage and wisdom.

In the world of today, we often forget this ancient lesson. The pressures of modern life, the overwhelming demands of work, family, and public service, leave us no time for the sacred act of caring for the body. Yet, Aaron Schock’s words remind us that exercise is not a luxury but a necessity. To give in to the belief that one can function without maintaining physical strength is to neglect the very vessel that carries us through the storms of life. Just as the great heroes of old were tested by physical trials, so too must we be prepared, not just in mind but in body, to face the challenges of the modern world.

The great Marcus Aurelius, the philosopher-king, often wrote about the importance of balance and discipline. He knew that the demands of ruling an empire required a mind that was not only wise but also resilient. In his Meditations, he spoke of the importance of maintaining both mental and physical strength, for the two are inseparable. His philosophy was that the mind is easily clouded when the body is weak, and only by caring for both could one achieve true clarity and peace. Exercise, in this context, was a way of purifying the mind, clearing it of distractions, and restoring focus.

And so, O children of wisdom, the lesson to be learned is clear. Exercise is more than a mere physical activity—it is a path to both strength and clarity. It is a way to prepare the body to meet the challenges of the world while offering the mind a respite from the burdens of responsibility. Whether you are a warrior in battle, a ruler of a kingdom, or a modern-day servant of the people, the strength of the body will carry you through the trials of life. In the words of Aaron Schock, and in the ancient teachings of the great leaders and philosophers, we are reminded that physical exercise is not optional but essential for those who would lead with wisdom, resilience, and courage. Thus, take time each day to honor the body, for in doing so, you will honor the mind and spirit, and prepare yourself for the greatness that lies ahead.