21, 21,21
Fitness and Wellness: Getting Started and Sticking with It
Just like with Magic, my fitness journey has been a work in progress. My motivations have shifted over time, my workouts have changed, and my routines have definitely evolved. But one thing that’s stayed the same is my commitment to making fitness a priority—5 to 6 days a week.
Now, I’m no fitness expert, but I want to share a couple of things that I think are super important when it comes to wellness.
1. Just Get Started
I know it sounds basic, but honestly, the hardest part of fitness is just starting. Don’t worry about figuring out what you like or don’t like just yet. You don’t need to go for an hour-long workout from the get-go. Even 15 minutes of moving around is a win. No progress happens until you get started, so just put one foot in front of the other and keep moving.
2. Find What You Enjoy and Stick with It
One thing I hear a lot is that people struggle to get to the gym, or they feel like they “should” be lifting weights but don’t enjoy it. The truth is you don’t have to do something you don’t enjoy. Find something that keeps you coming back for more—whether it’s lifting, cardio, yoga, or whatever else. Your wellness journey will evolve over time, but there’s no point in forcing yourself to do something you won’t stick with. Fitness should be something you want to do, not something you dread.
Why I Love Voltron and Equipment Decks in Magic: The Gathering
So, I’ve been diving into Magic: The Gathering for about seven months now—yep, you read that right, just seven months. And in that time, I’ve made 11 decks. I guess you could say I’m all in. My playstyle has turned out to be pretty Voltron and equipment heavy. Some of the commanders I’ve been using include:
• Sergeant John Benton
• Samut, Voice of Dissent
• Ardenn, Intrepid Archaeologist / Akiri, Line Slinger
• Pir, Imaginative Rascal // Toothy, Imaginary Friend
• Wolverine, Best There Is
For me, Voltron and equipment decks are all about that 21-commander damage win condition. I know, it’s not the most strategic strategy, but there’s something so satisfying about swinging in with a massive, unblocked creature and knocking someone out of the game with a single blow. This playstyle reflects my aggressive mentality. I like keeping things straightforward with a “high-risk, high reward” type of game plan. Anyway, here are five things I’ve learned about building Voltron and equipment commander decks:
1. Voltron vs. Equipment: What’s the Difference?
Voltron decks are all about buffing up your commander with auras, instants, and sorceries to make them unstoppable. Equipment, on the other hand, tends to require more resources because you must pay to play and equip them. The payoff can be massive, but they’re also more vulnerable to board wipes and artifact removal, and they can be slower to set up.
2. Choose Your Commander Wisely
This is big. When picking a Voltron commander, you want a creature that already has keywords that help with the strategy. Stuff like double strike and trample are super important—they’ll help ensure your damage actually lands when it matters. The last thing you want is a big creature that can’t get through blockers, right?
3. Keep Your Commander Safe
Your deck is all about one creature—your commander. So, it’s kind of obvious that you need to protect them. This protection comes from instants and sorceries, sure, but don’t sleep on support creatures. Cards that give your commander additional abilities or keep them safe can make a huge difference.
4. Make Sure Your Damage Gets Through
Okay, you’ve got a huge weapon, but how do you get that damage past your opponent’s defenses? Trample is a must but also make sure you’ve got a couple of spells that can make your creature unlockable. Wide boards can make it tough to land those 21 commander damage points, so keeping your creature unlockable is key.
5. Combat Tricks Are Your Best Friend
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that combat tricks can make or break your strategy. Knowing when to use a protection spell, how to bluff, or when to throw in a surprise move can turn the tide in your favor. There’s something so satisfying about catching your opponent off-guard with a sudden burst of damage or unexpected evasion. Who doesn’t love a good combat trick?
What’s Next?
Once I round out these Voltron decks with the cards I want, I plan to branch out and try other playstyles. But for now, I’m just enjoying the ride and letting the game come to me. It’s been a blast so far.
Whether it’s building decks or building muscle, the important thing is to keep showing up and doing what works for you. I’ve learned that dedication and consistency are key to making progress in both Magic and fitness. And the best part? You get to enjoy the process along the way.
Let me know your thoughts! What’s your favorite Voltron commander, or how do you stay consistent with your wellness goals? I’d love to hear from you.