Phoenix VA coach helps fellow Veterans find resilience through fitness

Joshua Parks, an Army combat Veteran and recreation therapist with Phoenix VA, found his passion for coaching National Veterans Golden Age Games athletes through his own fitness journey.

From 2003 to 2008, Parks was a cavalry scout with the 82nd Airborne Division. He deployed to Iraq in November 2006 and wouldn't leave for another 15 months

After his service, Parks (pictured above) faced challenges transitioning back to civilian life. "When I got home, I became a sloth. I didn't run. I only walked when I had to and I started drinking," he shared.

While seeking relief from chronic back pain, Parks spoke with his primary care doctor, who recommended physical activity as a way of preventing pain. Parks discovered that exercise helped him find comfort and resilience. He also stopped drinking.

"Exercise became a crucial part of my everyday life. Fitness became my lifeline, and I want to share that with my fellow Veterans. When I started, it was for my mental health, to get out and explore and not feel so trapped. Then I kept exercising to fend off pain," he said.

Stronger together

Parks teaches Veterans to trust the process of gradual improvement and show up regularly for workouts, even when they lack motivation.

"When they see me pushing through my challenges, it inspires them to do the same, fostering a strong sense of esprit de corps among our team," he said.

The "esprit de corps" Veterans experience exercising together unites them around a shared purpose and creates pride, unity and camaraderie within the group.

A Veteran's transformation

Parks tells about a first-time National Veterans Golden Age Games participant from Phoenix who embodies that indomitable spirit. When she joined Parks' team, she was grappling with chronic pain and disheartenment.

"She started slow, walking about a mile in an hour. Each week, she pushed herself a bit further, a little faster. After a few months of training, she now walks over two miles continuously." Encouraged by her progress, she decided to try adaptive CrossFit.

"Her transformation is incredible. She went from barely moving to becoming one of our top athletes and is competing in air rifle, cornhole and horseshoes at the 2024 Golden Age Games," Parks said.

But the most rewarding part of Parks' work is seeing Veterans realize their potential.

"I love raising the difficulty ever so slightly each week. The best part is seeing the Veterans' faces when they realize they can keep up," he said.

If a Veteran is considering participating in the Golden Age Games, Parks encourages them to go for it. He urges Veterans to take small steps, trust their providers and stay consistent.

Exercise is not just about keeping in shape. It can also help with your emotional and mental well-being. Working out can enhance your confidence, distract you from problems and give you a sense of control. Active people experience less anxiety, depression and stress than those who are not active.

The Golden Age Games offer Veterans ages 55 and older an opportunity to compete in sports and learn new skills through exhibitions.

Learn more by visiting National Veterans Golden Age Games - National Veterans Sports Programs (va.gov).

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