Being healthy in both body and mind has never been more important. Physical health leads to mental health and vice versa. The health industry is enjoying a period of peak demand with heavy hitters such as McKesson Corp and UnitedHealth Group generating hundreds of billions in revenue annually. One of the best investments ideas this year has been the luxury fitness company Peloton Interactive, Inc. (NASDAQ:PTON) which returned nearly 200%. Peloton shares were trading at $30 at the beginning of this year, vs. $90 after today’s 6% gain. Insider Monkey recommended Peloton to our subscribers in its quarterly newsletter earlier this year.
Health coach Stephon Clinkscales is a veteran of the health industry and is proud to be a part of what he describes as “a life-changing and life-saving process.” He has long specialized in helping others achieve their fitness goals, and the over 30 million views on his heavily subscribed YouTube channel are a testament to his growing popularity, unique techniques, and penetrating insights into physical health. We caught up with the man from Milwaukee to find out why he is passionate about helping other men fire on all cylinders.
Stephon Clinkscales
Q: Hello, Stephon, nice to meet you. Let me first ask you when you became interested in physical fitness?
A: Well, it started when I was a kid. I was always aware of my body as an amazing tool that I needed to look after and keep sharp if I was to get the best out of it. To me, it’s a no-brainer, you look after your body, and it’ll look after you. Growing up, I saw men who were impressive physical specimens, and I noticed they carried themselves differently from other men. They had an air of confidence, a swagger, and an authoritative presence. They would walk into a room, and you’d pay attention. I guess I wanted to be like those guys.
Q: That’s interesting. Do you believe being in prime physical shape reflects on your mental well-being?
A: Absolutely. No doubt about it. We’re physical creatures, and if your body is not the best it can be, you’re doing yourself a disservice. In my line of work, I get a lot of guys coming to me with self-esteem issues. It’s usually tied up with a negative body image. As they work through their physical problems, the mind gets in shape too. It’s such a rewarding process, and I never get tired of being a part of it. There’s a natural harmony to it that cannot be beaten.
Q: Anyone can see you’re in remarkable shape. Is it easy to maintain that?
A: You kidding! (laughs) It takes a tremendous amount of discipline, willpower, tenacity, and hard work to get fit and stay fit. Yet all those positive traits are strengthened through training, and then physical activity and constantly challenging yourself becomes an addiction. Put it this way, when I see a guy who’s in shape, I know instinctively that there’s a guy with a strong work ethic, a lot of pride, and cast-iron integrity. Think sloppy, and you become sloppy, but if you’re focused and on top of your game, your body will reflect this.
Q: You’re renowned for helping a lot of men work through their depression and anxiety issues. Why do you think so many men are now battling mental health difficulties?
A: Well, we live in an increasingly complicated world with a lot of problems. Many men often struggle with the concept of what being a ‘real man’ should be. This, in turn, leads to troubled and failed relationships with women. To me, a ‘real man’ is someone who values himself and someone capable and not afraid to be the best version of themselves. Physical training is an integral part of that because if you value yourself, you will value others, and if you’re taking care of yourself, it puts you in a position to take care of others. Women value strength in a man, both physical and mental, and the confidence it brings.
Q: Thanks for your time Stephon, it’s been a real pleasure. Any last words?
A: It’s been swell. I think Lord Buddha summed it up best when he said, “To keep the body in good health is a duty. Otherwise, we shall not be able to keep the mind strong and clear.” Take care, everyone!
