Hello everyone, Happy late New Year. This is the time of year where people are slowly but steadfastly retreating from the gym and beginning another unsuccessful year of "getting back into shape". Why do people with every good intention in the world get sidetracked so early into their resolution? Why is this phenomenon so widespread?
I have some opinions on this as you have probably guessed by now. Perhaps point form is the best way to pontificate on the many phenomena which surround New Year's drop outs.
1).
You are not ready: This type of person wants to become fitter and healthier but is not committed to the work. This is the person who is setting a deadline in the hopes that a deadline will somehow effect a change in their life. This person begins valiantly but tapers off quickly and eventually quits.
2).
You are lazy: This person always has an excuse to miss a workout. I feel sick, I feel tired, I did'nt sleep well last night, I have no time....if these are things you hear yourself saying, you are lazy......that's why you don't succeed.
3).
You are bored: You do the same boring workout that you have been doing for the last several years. You have also noticed that your body has reached a plateau and you have ceased to see gains in strength or endurance. You need to take a class or see a trainer who can help keep you motivated and interested. Check out various online resources as well.
4).
You are trying to do too much: This person is beginning an intensive training routine, totally changing their diet, and cutting out various vices all at the same time. You are doing too much way too soon. This person is drastically changing their lifestyle overnight which is totally unsustainable and unrealistic. Begin with one or two things, you need to allow your body and mind the time to adjust to lifestyle changes. I tell my clients to set goals by the year......not the month.
5).
You are doing stuff you don't like to do: Fitness is not contained in a gym. I hate gyms, they are irritating beyond description. Find sports or activites you like to do, and create fitness goals with those activities in mind. Maybe play another night of hockey per week or join a squash ladder. Your training should reflect who you are and what you like to do. It is suprisingly easy to add some additional strength training before or after you play a game.
6)
You take too long too workout: This person creates a significant dent in their day by taking too long to workout. This person has a busy day but still feels it's necessary to rest for two to three minutes between each set of bench press. Over time, the long routine becomes "I don't have the time". This person needs to get busy! Do supersets, squat presses, pull-ups and push-ups. Stop being a pansy ass and start ripping it up.
Anyway, I am getting all worked up here.....(takes several deep breaths). The heart of the matter is to be realistic about training. Training is a way of life, it's a life long commitment to yourself. Fitness is not accomplished in 6-weeks, it's accomplished over a lifetime of consistent hard work.
Best wishes on your journey.
M
Timing a workout adds an element of competiton that a normal workout does not possess. It creates pressure and a sense of obligation to yourself. This is where you discover yourself....are you going to tap out, or are you going to battle to the end?
