Sometimes, life reminds us exactly why we do what we do.

Last week, I joined Coral Dental on a mission trip with One More Child to Sacatepéquez, Guatemala. It was truly an experience that reshaped how I view health, purpose, and service.

Initially I felt slightly intimidated and insignificant, maybe because I am not a dentist. However, that feeling did not last for long because there was still plenty to do. From organising supplies, assisting with teaching the children about oral health and sterilisation.

Every small act of care made a difference. Watching families line up with such patience and gratitude was deeply humbling. The joy in the parents’ eyes after their children received dental treatment is something I’ll carry with me forever.

Being healthy gives us the strength, energy, and clarity to serve others. Being in a place where everyone is there to serve is very powerful.

It made me very aware that I am in the right profession. Helping people become healthier physically and mentally isn’t just my job, it’s my calling.

As a fitness professional, I’ve always believed that health goes far beyond the gym. It’s not only about how much you can lift or how fast you can run, but how big your heart is. Being healthy gives us the strength, energy, and clarity to serve others. It equips us to show up with purpose and compassion.

Seeing the contrast between life in Sacatepéquez and back here in Bermuda has truly opened my eyes.

It’s so easy to take wellness for granted, to forget that not having to second guess drinking water or eating food and having access to healthcare are privileges in many parts of the world.

But this trip reminded me that fitness, at its core, is about stewardship and taking care of our bodies so we can give more in return.

When we train our bodies, we’re also training our minds for patience, for resilience, for empathy.

In Guatemala, I witnessed how health and hope are intertwined. Each act of care rippled outward such as a toothbrush given, a cavity filled, a smile restored, or new shoes and toys given, proving that healing isn’t only about medicine or movement, it’s about love in action.

So wherever you are on your own fitness journey, remember: someone out there might need the stronger, kinder version of you. Keep showing up. Keep taking care of yourself. Because your health isn’t just your gain, it could be someone else’s hope.

During your fitness journey, remember: someone out there might need the version of you that’s a little stronger, a little kinder, and a little more courageous.

Keep showing up. Keep taking care of yourself. Because in doing so, you just might help someone else find their strength, too. I know that Guatemala has definitely helped me find my strength!

• Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Look for BActive For Life Fitness on Facebook