Burn with Kearns: Transforming lives through movement and mindset – Kevin Kearns

By Coach Kevin Kearns, contributing writer, on exercise and fitnesss

For many of us over 50, we find ourselves juggling responsibilities for both our children and, sometimes, our grandchildren. Encouraging them to stay active and maintain a healthy weight while also managing our own wellness can feel overwhelming. Yet, what if the key to unlocking lasting change was not just about moving more but also addressing the deeper challenges behind weight gain?

The Deeper Roots of Obesity

Obesity isn’t simply a matter of eating too much or moving too little. It’s a complex condition often rooted in emotional, physical, sexual trauma. Through my career, I’ve seen how these factors shape lives in ways many of us don’t fully understand.

Back in 2002, while working with Dr. Mike Tarnoff at the Weight and Wellness Center at Tufts Medical in Boston, I attended a support group for bariatric patients. Listening to their stories opened my eyes to a powerful truth: the majority of these individuals had endured significant trauma, whether physical, emotional, or both. For many, food had become a coping mechanism, offering temporary solace in the face of pain.

I could relate. Growing up, I experienced relentless bullying that left deep emotional scars. When my father died at 48 from alcoholism, my world fell apart. That summer, at just 12 years old, I became withdrawn and hopeless. I could have turned to food for comfort as many do. Instead, a gift from my uncle—karate lessons—gave me a new path. But not everyone has that intervention, and for many, trauma’s weight becomes physical over time.

Physical trauma, such as injuries or chronic pain, can also play a significant role. When movement becomes painful, people naturally avoid it, creating a cycle of inactivity and weight gain. The body’s natural stress responses can further exacerbate this, leading to hormonal imbalances that promote fat storage. Combined with emotional pain, the barriers to change can seem insurmountable. As well this is how many addictions start especially to sugar and food in general which is the easiest addiction. You don’t need a license, it isn’t illegal, and anyone can buy food at any time at any place.

Accountability and Choices

As adults, we need to take a hard look at our own choices. While trauma and external factors influence behaviors, accountability is key to creating change.

First, we must examine our relationships with food. Are we teaching our kids by example, or are we indulging in poor eating habits while expecting them to eat better? Food is not just fuel; it’s often tied to emotions. Recognizing when we’re eating out of stress, boredom, or sadness is the first step toward breaking these patterns.

Next, let’s consider how we use our time. Overworking often leaves little room for physical activity or meal preparation, both of which are critical for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. By prioritizing movement and mindful eating, we set a powerful example for the younger generation.

Finally, let’s admit that inactivity is a choice. While modern conveniences make it easy to sit for hours, our bodies are designed to move. Walking, stretching, and engaging in fun activities like martial arts or dance not only improve our physical health but also reduce stress and increase happiness—benefits that ripple through families.

Building Confidence at Any Age

Whether you’re 50 or helping guide a child, it’s never too late to start transforming lives through movement. I’ve worked with individuals of all ages, including those struggling with obesity. One thing I’ve learned is that anyone can benefit from a structured, supportive fitness routine—no matter their starting point.

The workouts I teach, inspired by MMA training, aren’t just about burning calories. They’re about releasing stress, anger, and sadness. Punching pads isn’t just a physical act; it’s an emotional release that can help people break free from their past. This is one of the reasons we have and still spend so much with our anti bullying MMA fitness programs at Boys & Girls clubs in New England as well as local schools.

A Call to Action for Families

To those of us navigating life beyond 50, I say this: you have the power to lead by example. Show the younger generation how resilience and healthy habits can change lives. Start with small, achievable steps—whether it’s going for a daily walk, trying a group fitness class, or engaging in a fun and challenging activity like martial arts.

And remember, it’s about more than physical health. It’s about building confidence, creating new habits, and finding joy in the process. Whether it’s you, your kids, or your grandkids, change starts with a decision to move forward—and it’s never too late to begin.

Workout 1

Beginner workout

Move and improve Today!

Coach Kevin Kearns

PS I need you help to change physical education in this country! Vote for me at the end of this video. Thank you!

Vote for Kevin – HERE! https://nominees.mahanow.org/t/kevin-kearns/4852

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Read ALL articles by Kevin Kearns – here: BURN WITH KEARNS

Both of Coach Kearns books may be purchased on www.Amazon.com. For more information about Coach Kevin Kearns, including scheduling speaking engagements and classes (both online and in person), please contact him at 508-404-8503 or [email protected].Author of There’s Light In The Tunnel†How to Survive and Thrive with Depression, Always Picked Last, A guide to navigating bullies on Amazon and Audible youtube.com/user/burnwithkearns https://www.linkedin.com/mwlite/in/burnwithkearns

Coach Kevin Kearns has been coaching in the world of fitness, nutrition, and tactical self defense for over 3 decades. As the former conditioning coach to 15 UFC Pro Fighters, and ranked in the Top 5 in the UFC , he is no stranger to the the importance of proper nutrition and proper mindset programming. He has long advocated to all his clients “athletes or the general population“ about the importance of programming mind, body and spirit. Coach Kevin Kearns BS FMS CPT Former conditioning coach to 15 UFC Pros Ranked in Top 5 by the UFC Personal Fitness Coach, Author, Columnist, Motivational Speaker, Corporate Wellness Consultant, Youth Wellness Program Provider, Certification Specialist, Personal Self Defense, and Law Enforcement Defensive Tactics Specialist.BurnwithKearns.com