Alright so we are officially close to month number three of 2016. Be honest, how many of us actually stuck to our New Year's resolutions? Okay, I didn't...but that's besides the point. The real point is that starting a fitness journey is hard, especially the first months of it. So here are eight points to remember for those who find it hard to stay motivated on their journey.
1. Set REALISTIC goals.
When I say realistic I mean something that is attainable. When you start a fitness journey you have to have in mind how much you want to lose or gain. Just remember that you should set small goals that will help you achieve your bigger goals. This could be something as small as losing a pound or two a week or improving your ability to perform certain exercises. When you feel like quitting remember why you started in the first place.
2. Small progress is still considered progress.
Whether it's adding some seconds onto your planks or having a snug shirt fitting a little looser, progress should always help your motivation. Don't feel bad if you don't make huge progress right away. Your fitness journey requires dedication and patience to be truly effective. Plus you're already lapping everybody who is deciding to sit on the couch the whole day! In the wise words of Salvaldore in Couple's Retreat: "Encouragement, yes!"
3. What about cheating?
What about it? Big deal. If you are truly dedicated to your health you are already adapting your body to better changes. A cheat meal will not completely destroy everything you are working towards. Does this mean you should cheat all the time? NOPE. Limit or even avoid those things that you crave. Notice I said limit for those of us who can't resist a Coke or two in the week. Be honest with yourself and get back on track the next day.
Let's be real though, who doesn't love some ice cream every now and then?!
4. It's okay to look confused.
By this I mean it's alright to look confused at the gym. Many people getting started or even at the beginning don't know how to properly use the equipment or how to properly do the exercises. Just ask someone. Just because people look muscly and mildly intimidating at gym doesn't mean they aren't super friendly. You'll not only learn how to use the equipment but you can also build some new friendships too.
5. You can modify your exercise.
Seriously though. Don't push yourself way past your limit if you know you can't do certain things quite yet. There are always ways to modify an exercise and still acquire the same results. When the time comes for you to try it out again then give it all ya got!
For the record: Modified push-ups are not just for ladies. Silly stereotypes.
6. Friends are helpful!
Don't be afraid to grab a partner for a workout. Not only can having a partner be fun but they are also a great way to help keep you accountable and motivated during your workout. Plus it makes it slightly more bearable when you know someone is going to be sore in the same way as you the next day. Apologies to all the future people who are asked to do partner workouts, just know you benefit from it too!
7. Benefits. Benefits. Benefits.
Once you begin to feel the changes in your body happening you'll start to feel a lot better. Exercising is not only good for your physical health but also your mental, emotional and even spiritual health. Embrace these healthy changes to your lifestyle because it really improves your sense of wellness. Plus, let's not forget you start to look F-I-N-E.
Look in the mirror and imagine Will Ferrell saying that about you. That's right, you best believe you are so hot right now!
8. Love yourself.
No, I don't mean the song written by Ed Sheeran for Justin Bieber. While on this journey you need to begin to love yourself including those flaws you think you have. The things you think are your weaknesses will quickly become a strength when you learn to appreciate yourself for who you are and who you're becoming. You are doing this for yourself!
