Key Thoughts That Will Help Kickstart Your Fitness Journey
Yes – we can all agree that exercise is important, but life sometimes can “get in the way” and we struggle to make health a priority. Whether time is an issue, finding the right gym or social setting is a challenge, or simply not knowing where to begin, many people fall into this trap of complacency and fail when it comes to working out regularly.
I am here to share a few key thoughts that will help kickstart your fitness journey.
- Identify Your “Why”
- Select a Fitness Program
- All or Nothing
- Support System
- Patience
Let’s start by identifying your why.
The common goal most beginners shoot for is to lose fat and gain muscle. That’s a great goal – but why? Are you overweight and want to improve your self-esteem? Is summer around the corner and you want to fit in that pretty bathing suit you saw at the store? Your why and other’s why to exercise are completely different and it must be unique to you. Continually remind yourself why you want to exercise and it will increase the likelihood of staying consistent with an exercise program.
This leads us to our next segment – selecting a Fitness Program.
Personal Training, group exercise classes (F45, Orange Theory, etc.), cardio and/or strength-focused programs are all incredible choices and the decision falls in the hands of the person participating. One program is not better than the other – it just depends. Unless you are training for something specific, try a variety of exercise programs and fully understand how each operates, commit to one, and trust the process.
Next is this idea of all or nothing.
There is no other way to explain this concept other than to be fully invested in your program of choice and give it your all. Now, it’s inevitable for hiccups to occur during your fitness journey that might derail you, but it’s extremely important to get back on track and remain focused. Put your “why” to the forefront of your mind and avoid making excuses that will take you away from your health goal.
Find yourself a solid support group, one that promotes your decision to live an active and healthier lifestyle. Ultimately, surround yourself with people who are on a similar path or have been exercising regularly so you can stay motivated through tough times. You want to share your fitness endeavors with people who will cheer you on and it becomes addicting when the results start setting in.
Last but not least, be patient.
As some would say, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Avoid being discouraged if you do not see progress right away – this is normal. Play the long game and understand that there are no shortcuts when achieving your goals. Being a better version of yourself takes time, discipline, and dedication so prepare by accepting that fact. Furthermore, once you achieve a particular goal, be ready to set the next one because the journey has just begun!
Best of luck to you and your fitness journey!
