So, you begin working out. Again. The last time you hit the gym or turned on that exercise video was months ago and since then you've let some (or all) of your fitness go. But you're ready to get back into it now. Your new-found motivation causes you to pull your hair back, throw on those Nikes and sweat away the pounds. You're dedicated to the goal. But then your legs start to get sore, you can barely move your arms, and your abs hurt when you laugh. You realize you would rather lie on the couch than get up and do jumping jacks. You know you like to work out and that you want to get in shape, but you also know you don't love the process like others seem to. You pretty much experience a rollercoaster of thoughts and emotions every day.
Day one of working out: "I LOVE this."
You feel great and know that all that sweat dripping down your face are calories slipping out of your body. You've got energy, you're pumping out those push ups like a pro and downing your water bottle. Bring on day two!
Day two: "My entire body aches."
Getting out of bed requires rolling. You don't even try to pick up the shirt off the floor because your legs physically cannot bend. Your arms can't do much since you're feeling the aftermath of those 20 extra push ups you did since you were excited about working out. Still, the ache feels good, so you push through and work out again.
Day three: "Ice cream? Who needs it. Those extra french fries? I'll take a salad instead."
You're feeling so good about working out that you want to eat healthy too. Pumping yourself with nutrients and water turns you into a powerhouse. No one can shut you down.
Day four: "I get a break day right?"
The tiredness starts to creep in and you begin to think maybe a break day will be good for you. Everyone needs rest right?? So you lie on the couch and watch TV, BUT you're still drinking that water and eating those fruits and veggies so it's OK.
Day five: "Why did I start working out again?"
The break day reminded you of what you used to do in your free time and how nice it feels just to lay on the couch. Your motivation to get fit seems cloudy. You see all those desserts and chips in your pantry and you just want to eat them all. But you manage to suppress all temptations and hit the gym again that day.
Day six: "Working out is hard"
You realize working out actually takes work (go figure) and you have to push through the tough exercises to see results. As you're dripping in sweat once again, you can't help but wonder if getting fit is really worth it.
Day seven: "I'm feeling good"
You look in the mirror and although you might not see dramatic changes yet, you notice you don't run out of breath as easily, you feel healthy and stronger. You are feeling good. You decide you'll have a go at the working out lifestyle for another week and actually get excited to see more results.
This time you might actually stick with working out long term. Even though you hate doing high knees and squats actually make you hate life, you like the way this lifestyle makes you feel.
