“This is the year I’m going to get in shape.” “I’m going to start my diet this week.” “I’m waking up early tomorrow to get a workout in.”
How many times have you told yourself this only to fall short of your goals? Setting goals and having good intentions to achieve them is easy. Sticking with your plans and actually accomplishing them is the hard part. Once the excitement of making goals wears off, where do you normally find yourself? Are you able to grind through and push yourself to reach your goals, or do you make excuses and fall back into old habits? If you are part of the latter, here are a few tips to help you out.
Don’t “find time”, make it
One of the most common excuses for not exercising is not having enough time. The truth is, there is no easy way to find time in your busy schedule to workout, you have to make it. There are 168 hours in a week. If you take away 8 hours a day for sleep, and 50 hours for work, this still leaves you with 62 hours a week to do activities of your choosing. Be honest with yourself, do you really not have enough time to squeeze in a workout? Remember, don’t find time, MAKE IT!
Set a date for your goal
Typically the most motivated and driven people have specific dates they are working towards. Whether it is a 5k, an Ironman, or even a beach vacation where you want to look your best, go ahead and register for it. This gives you a firm date and now that you are financially connected to it, chances are you won’t bail on the plans.
Accountability
Along with setting a goal, find someone to do it with you. Sign up with a trainer or workout with a friend or a group. You are less likely to miss a workout or eat that cheat meal if you have someone else relying on you. Having someone to work with and encourage you along the way will give you that extra motivation to keep going!
Have Fun
The truth is not everyone enjoys the same activities. If you dislike the task at hand, you are more likely to find an excuse to skip it. Biking, weight lifting, running, hiking, dancing… there are many different ways to stay active. Find something you enjoy doing and look forward to, then work hard at it!
Don’t Give up
If you are currently sedentary, exercising will be hard in the beginning. It becomes easier and more enjoyable as you go. If it was easy from the start, everyone would be at their optimal level of health. Work hard and it will pay off!
“The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary.” –Vince Lombardi
If you need help reaching your goals or holding yourself accountable, contact Kevin Tart, CSCS, Fitness Director at Body Solutions Atlanta at 770.634.8844 | ktart@ptsolutions.com
In the Chicago area and interested in Body Solutions by PT Solutions? Contact Keith Tesch, CSCS, CNT at 630.470.5718 | ktesch@ptsolutions.com
