​Can you do me a favor? If you would, please take a moment, stop and think about every little movement you’ve made in the last three minutes or so that resulted with you here on the ATP blog reading these words.  Let’s take that a step further and think about your morning routine, or your favorite weekend activity. Lastly just take a moment to praise God for it. It amazes me how unbelievably cool and complex the human body is and how much has to happen just for my eyes to blink.

I say all this to point out that movement makes the world go around. Quite literally- but its also foundational to our way of life as human beings! For thousands of years folks have studied movement in countless different capacities. Beyond the physical act, movement also means something completely different to each and every one of us.

To one person it could mean relaxation by hopping in the car and going for a drive.  For another it can mean Wii Bowling, because the house balls at the local ally seem a little dirty. It can be a hobby, a way of life or can even be taken for granted.

ATP’s meaning for movement is engrained in each and everything we do. Its our culture, which stems from being pivotal to our foundation.  So what does movement mean for ATP? Glad you asked. While the below is not a comprehensive list, we’d like to share 4 major components with you.

Movement is:
Development - From the moment a person is born, the milestones of their early months and years normally revolve around movement. Think about it- first is holding their head up, then rolling over, sitting up, crawling, standing, walking, then it’s off to the races! From the very beginning to the very end of our lives, it plays a huge role in our development as people; and we strive to help every step of the way.

Freedom - Each and every one of us has something holding us back from doing some of the things we wish we could. Maybe it’s obesity, age, injury, fear, doubt or laziness- whatever it is, the right movement gives us the ability to break those chains, crush our goals and live free from what held us back before.

Inspiration - We at ATP are blessed to work with people who have been told movement is not an option for them. Bound to limited or no mobility, just the ability of turning their head is life-changing. They embody mental fortitude, grit and perseverance.  To conquer such challenges and exude such hope is an absolute inspiration. 

Purpose - It’s in our name and an ultimate goal. We all have purpose on this earth through God our creator and praise Him for it.  We also live in a fallen world that can put us on the wrong side of hope. Through movement, we can continue to develop, break free of what holds us back, be inspired and inspire and ultimately, regain hope and purpose in our lives.

Of course, movement is not the only way to obtain the above. But with the ability to make such an impact in the lives of others, its our mission to share it with the world! Move with purpose today.
 

The GAP…No, not the ever-popular clothing store with quality items at reasonable prices - We’re talking the Greater Allegheny Passage bike trip today folks.  Much like the Oregon Trail of old, the GAP is an outlet for those seeking to pioneer a new, in search for adventure.

Okay, that may be a bit dramatic. The reality is the Greater Allegheny Passage is quite a popular trail for bikers, hikers, trail runners etc. to pioneer from Pittsburgh, all the way down to Cumberland, Maryland. They can then catch a connecting trail to our Nation’s Capital. The GAP Totals 150 miles one way and is overflowing with beautiful scenery, quaint trail towns and checked bucket lists.

So why are we talking about the GAP? Well as you may have seen within our various social media posts- ATP’s very own Caleb Kolb and Sarah Watkins recently set out on an exciting adventure and conquered the trek.
The somewhat impromptu journey is a fine example of living out what you firmly believe. Let me explain- about one month prior to departure, Caleb and Sarah were at REI purchasing gear for some of our programs (check out our programs page here). If you’re not familiar with REI its an awesome store for all things camping, hiking, outdoors etc.  They stumbled upon a brochure for the GAP and were instantly intrigued. Without skipping a beat, they knew they had to crush it, before even discussing it. Aside from the challenge of finding four free days, they also realized they’d have to camp the whole thing, battle the elements, and make sure their bikes could handle it. Most would have tabled the adventure for next year, but where’s the fun in that?

I urge you to listen to our founder, Jon Kolb discuss where the name- Adventures in Training with a Purpose comes from. Jon describes adventure as setting out on a challenge, without knowing the outcome. In discussing adventure, he talks about standing at the base of a mountain, being able to look at it and, by the grace of God, conquering it.

That’s the mentality of our founder, leadership and those we work with.  Every day is an adventure to conquer and we need to push ourselves to new heights- so no matter what future mountain, trail, or giant you may face, no matter how big or small, you can look at it and smile with the anticipation of your next conquest.
Be adventurous- and stay tuned for Caleb and Sarah’s rundown of their amazing trip!