As the calendar turns to February, the buzz of New Year's resolutions, especially fitness goals, starts to quiet down.
It's a familiar story: you kick off January fueled by the promise of a fresh start, only to lose steam as the month progresses. The culprits? Boredom, elusive results, a packed schedule, and waning motivation. If this sounds like your current scenario, don't be disheartened.
Be encouraged today. There's a way to rekindle your fitness journey and make those goals stick.
1. The Power of Effective Systems
In last months blog we referenced James Clear's bestselling book "Atomic Habits," which offers a nugget of wisdom that's particularly apt for our fitness problem:
"You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems."
This insight is a game-changer. It's not just about setting lofty fitness goals; it's about crafting a fail-proof system that nudges you towards those goals, day in and day out. Let's dive into how you can build this system and integrate other strategies to stay on the fitness track.
2. Track Your Wins
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and every step deserves recognition. Tracking your progress is more than a pat on the back; it's a roadmap that shows where you've been and where you're headed. Use apps, journals, or a simple calendar to log your workouts and milestones. Seeing your consistency and progress visually can be a powerful motivator on days when the couch seems more appealing than the treadmill.
3. Emotional Anchors
Sometimes, the push we need is rooted in our emotions. Maybe a doctor's advice hits a little too close to home or a pair of jeans that used to fit just right. These emotional triggers can be potent motivators. Place these reminders where you can't ignore them—like the background on your phone or a note on your bathroom mirror. Let these personal cues be the nudge to lace up those sneakers.
4. Savor the Afterglow
Never underestimate the power of feeling good post-workout. Exercise isn't just about physical benefits; it's a mental and emotional uplift, too. The key is remembering and anticipating the energized, refreshed feeling following a good workout. Let this afterglow be your beacon through stressful days and packed schedules.
5. Rally Your Community
Embarking on a fitness journey can sometimes feel lonely, but it doesn't have to be.
We encourage you to loop in your family, friends, or coworkers about your fitness goals. Their support and encouragement can be powerful, especially when your motivation starts to wane. Plus, sharing your goals adds a layer of accountability that's hard to ignore.
Extra Nuggets To Help You Win
Just in case you didn’t already feel super motivated to get back at it, here’s our rapid fire round full of time-tested, best practices in goal achievement:
Clearly Define Your Goals: Vague aspirations like "get fit" won't cut it. Be specific. What does "fit" mean to you? Is it running a 5K without gasping for breath, or is it mastering ten push-ups? Set clear, measurable goals.
Stay Informed: Subscribe to fitness blogs, podcasts, or newsletters. Not only do they offer valuable tips, but they also serve as a regular reminder of your fitness journey.
Mind Matters: Practices like yoga and meditation can fortify your mental resilience, keeping you centered and focused on your goals.
Celebrate Milestones: Reward yourself for reaching milestones. It could be a spa day for a month of consistent workouts or a new book for hitting your step goal.
Buddy Up: A workout partner can transform exercise from a chore to a fun, social activity. Plus, it's harder to bail on a workout when someone else is counting on you.
Spice It Up: Keep boredom at bay by mixing up your workouts. Try a new fitness class, explore a different running trail, or experiment with a workout app.
Incorporate Movement: Make physical activity a seamless part of your day. Opt for the stairs, park further from the store entrance, or take a walking meeting.
Regular Osteopathic Appointments: Ensure a holistic approach to your well-being by scheduling regular Osteopatic appointments. These appointments not only address any existing discomfort but also contribute to overall body maintenance, supporting your fitness journey with a well-aligned and relaxed body.
Wrapping Up
If you’re feeling sad about how the year started, you’re not alone. The dip in motivation come February is common, but it's not the end of your fitness story.
You can navigate the hurdles by establishing a robust system, tracking progress, finding emotional triggers, relishing the post-workout high, and leaning on your support network. Remember, the goal isn't just to hit a fitness milestone but to integrate these healthy habits into your lifestyle for the long haul.
And as always, if you are experiencing any pain when performing your physical activities, reach out and book an appointment to see how we can help.
Aaron Laing
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