At some point, we will all go through some periods where we fall off the wagon a bit. If it’s just a few days, no problem. But as it becomes longer, it becomes harder and harder to make it back in.
Here are some tips that come to mind that might help:
- Focus on the small wins and just get started. Sometimes we just need to get the ball rolling. Then you can build the time and intensity as you go along. Start with somelthing you know you are able to do every day. Maybe that’s a 5 minute walk. Maybe a 7 minute bodyweight workout. It doesn’t need to be crazy. As you go along, bump it up to 10 minutes, then 15, then 20 and so on. Celebrate these small wins every time!
- Get an accountability buddy. If you are at StrongArm, grab another member or ask a coach to help keep you accountable. We also offer an accountability membership that is perfect for this. If you are at home, grab a friend or spouse. You just need someone to report to, even if they are not actually doing the workouts with you. You are less likely to not show up if someone else is waiting on you.
- Figure out your “why”. I know this is cliche, but it does make a difference. If you have a deep meaning behind why you are doing this, it gives you an extra drive. Do you want to be able to play with your kids and grandkids and never say no to them when they ask to do something active? Does illnesses run through your family? Are you looking to find a partner? Are you wanting to feel better because you feel miserable everyday? What ever it is, write it down. Then when you don’t want to show up, remind yourself of why you are doing this.
- Put it in your schedule. My personal training clients are the most consistant clients we have. Why is that? Well, the first three points above play into it, but they also have an appointment with me that they put on their schedule. Just like a work meeting or doctors appointment, put your workouts on your schedule each day. Then, don’t let anything take it’s place.
- Get a habit tracker. Exercising everyday needs to become a habit and a tracker can help you do this. We have one that we have used at the gym during nutrition challenges. Just take a calendar and write down what habits you want to build. Then check them off each day you do this. Once you get a streak going, try not to break it. If you do, just start another streak the next day.
I love talking with people and helping them get back on track. If this is something you are struggling with, just shoot me a quick email at drew@strongarm-crossfit.com and I will get you jump started again. FYI, you don’t have to be a memberof StrongArm for me to help! 🙂
-Drew Armstrong