Keep it simple
Most people are great at deciding what they want, whether it’s a new job, healthier lifestyle, or a lifetime supply of Starburst (only the pink one’s though!). Thinking about what you want is great fun. I could (and sometimes will) do it for hours! But let’s face it – when it comes time to make it happen, we get hung up on the details. We start thinking about the who’s, where’s, what’s and most importantly, the how’s of the situation. Then, if you are anything like me, you might start playing the ‘what if’ game! What if I don’t know how to do the exercises and everyone points and laughs at me, then my pants fall down, someone uploads it to YouTube and I become the newest overnight meme? Hells to the NO!
Our once fun and exciting idea becomes scary and paralyzing. Pretty soon, we are talking ourselves out of what we want, saying things like – it was a silly idea to begin with. At this point, we have basically convinced ourselves not to do the thing that we know will make us feel happy and fulfilled all because of the possibility of a wardrobe malfunction. Silly, right!? I mean, it didn’t stop Janet Jackson…
The trick here is to not let it get to that point. Once you have decided what you want, figure out the first step and take it. If your goal is to get in shape, pick a gym, and sign up. It really is that simple!
Create a support system
This is one of the most important and commonly overlooked aspects of starting an exercise program. If you want to make your fitness goals happen this year, it’s crucial that you have a good support system in place.
These are the people who encourage you, celebrate your successes with you, pick you up when you’re down, and help you stick with it. Those who have a support system are at a great advantage compared to those who try and do it alone.
For the best results – surround yourself with people who have already achieved what you want AND others who share the same goal. Those who have done it already provide an excellent example to work toward. Most likely, they were once exactly where you are so they know what it’s like and are living proof that it can be done. Chances also are, one of the reasons for their success is that they had a good support system in place. Those who share the same goal make excellent workout buddies. They help keep each other accountable, motivate one another, and celebrate even the smallest of successes.
Create an attainable goal
One of the most common mistakes people make when starting an exercise regimen – especially during the new year – is setting an overwhelming goal. I’m going to lose 20 pounds in my first month! Look by no means am I saying that it’s not possible, it definitely is. Big goals are exciting and can be very motivating. There is a time for them, but that time is not when you are first starting.
Instead choose a more attainable goal. Your goal should excite you while still feeling within reach. The strategy here is to build motivation early on by reaching your first goal. Then, ride that wave to your second, third, and so on gaining momentum as you go. You’ll have that big goal within your sights in no time while avoiding the stress and disappointment you may have experienced in the past.
It’s also helpful to have coaches / workout buddies who can help you make specific goals and track your progress. Unless you’re tracking your progress, how will you know that you’re getting closer to reaching your goal?
Enjoy the process
Some things in life are hard to enjoy. I’m talking about things like cleaning the toilet, passing a kidney stone, or getting your teeth cleaned. For things like that, the result is all that matters and we just go along with the process because we have to.
Luckily fitness is NOT one of those things! Nope, it’s more like taking a hike – as long as you’re with a good group of people and you’re on a scenic trail that matches up with your skill, the journey up is often just as enjoyable as the view at the top.
One of the easiest and most effective ways to ensure you enjoy the process is to put yourself in a positive environment. For fitness, that means joining a great gym. One that:
- Has a welcoming atmosphere
- Is beginner friendly
- Has knowledgeable coaches who are happy to help
- Plays upbeat music
- Has effective programs with a track record of success
- Curates a motivating environment
- Gives out lots of high fives!
If you have found it difficult to enjoy the process of getting in shape in the past, there is a good chance that you just haven’t found the right environment that will allow you to do so. That’s why, we’ll be offering 50% off your first month at Dew It Fitness when you sign up anytime from now through January, 2019. Take a risk on yourself – our members are living proof that it’s worth it.
