The decathlon is the best test in the Olympics for identifying the best overall athlete in the world. Various track and field events encompassing a combination of running, jumping, and throwing are combined to compare the contestants.

But what if we took it a step further?

What if the athletes had to:

• Throw a football
• Hit a baseball
• Play ping pong
• Kick a soccer ball
• Play volleyball
• Perform a dance
• Lift weights
• Complete an obstacle course
• Play racquetball
• Play golf
• Shoot a hockey puck
• Swim
• Play cricket
• Shoot a gun
• Ride a bike
• Etc.

That would really be the ultimate test.

When I think of athleticism, I think back to the stereotypical meathead in the weight room.

I’ve seen it too many times. A fit looking guy walks on the basketball court and completely embarrasses himself. He can’t dribble, can’t shoot, and can barely even run up and down the court.

That’s not athleticism to me.

A true athlete is someone who can do it all. They have the physical attributes (strength, speed, balance, etc.) but they can also pick up any physical activity and quickly be good enough to hold their own.

I don’t know if I’m necessarily there yet, but that’s what I strive for.

-Brandon