Starting a New Fitness Plan? That can be exciting, yet daunting!
The journey can be lined with false starts and wavering commitment.
Moving your body more isn’t just about a hobby; it’s vital for your health and well-being. The absence of regular physical activity can have a profound impact on our quality of life, and lead to major health issues. It’s no wonder so many of us set out with resolutions to exercise more. However, our journey can be fraught with two common hurdles: getting started and staying consistent long-term. Does that sound familiar?
It was with me. In the past, I’ve started various exercise activities, walking, aerobic classes, swimming, yoga, gym, etc. some with more consistency than others. For the last 3 years I’ve enjoyed going to the gym a few times a week, and have remain fairly consistent. What started out as “I have to do this”, has evolved to “I love going to the gym”. And my dicey knees soon tell me if I miss a more than one session.
But remaining consistent long-term can be an issue for many people. Reasons why you cant go today – if its not one thing, it’s another and soon a week, or two or more has gone by before you know it. Excuses and justification compound, and before we know it, we’ve completely lost the motivation. Has that happened to you?
From my own experience, conversations with clients, and researching those who have mastered exercise consistency, I’ve gleaned valuable insights. Here are, what I believe, the top five pivotal lessons:
1. Ditch the All-or-Nothing Mindset
The all-or-nothing approach is a setup for disappointment. Instead, prioritize gradual progress over intensity. Start with a modest 5 to 10-minute routine. Embrace this as your starting point; it’s more than enough. Then every couple of weeks, as you get fitter, expand another 5-10 minutes.
2. Plan and Protect Your Time
Scheduling is a game-changer. Lack of motivation often stems from a lack of planning. Decide what you want to achieve and allocate dedicated time in your schedule. Set up a reminder on your phone or app, and just “do it”! Don’t stop to think about it, have your gear ready and just go!
3. Prioritize Yourself
For those juggling work and family life, prioritizing yourself can feel like an uphill battle. And yet, you need to look after yourself first and foremost, as that way you are better able to look after with others or deal with situations that occur. Taking time for yourself enhances your productivity and well-being. Establish clear boundaries and communicate with loved ones about your dedicated exercise / movement time. The better you feel, the better you can get on with what you have to or need to do.
4. Celebrate Every Step Forward
Transformation happens incrementally. Every session is a victory in itself. Recognize and appreciate the progress you make. This celebration fuels a consistent stream of motivation.
5. Make Identity-Driven Goals
Shift your focus from outcome-centered goals to identity-based ones. Envision the person you aspire to become. Let exercise be a reflection of your evolving identity as a committed exerciser.
Being consistent with exercise isn’t about fleeting bursts of motivation; it’s about the steady rhythm of building a resilient, healthier, and more self-aware you. By embracing these lessons, you’re setting a course for a lasting fitness journey.
Remember, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about progress. Stay committed, and you’ll see the positive impact on your health and well-being. Keep up the great work!*
6. Hypnotherapy can help
One of the things Hypnotherapy can assist you with is motivation – in this case motivation for exercise. And it can also help you be more consistent with it. It can help you make positive changes so you ditch the old habits and excuses.
Which can also help with weight loss, if that’s an issue for you?
Help is at Hand
Sue Wood, a professional Hypnotherapist with 30-year background in the field, dedicated to helping her clients reset their “inner” mind to achieve lasting goals. Sue’s track record speaks for itself, having assisted numerous clients in conquering issues around eating, weight and exercise. Allow sue to be your guide towards reaching and maintaining the long-term the goals you desire.
Sue’s approach is all about you, offering a personalized, compassionate, and judgment-free environment. Sessions are crafted to suit your individual needs and objectives, ensuring a supportive atmosphere for meaningful and enduring change.
Break free from the limitations imposed by old habits and behaviours and unlock your true potential with Sue’s guidance. Imagine a life where lack of energy, time, or something else no longer holds you back – where you feel empowered to pursue your dreams with clarity and determination. Schedule your complimentary 30-minute consultation with Sue now and embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation through the power of hypnotherapy.
To book your free consult with Sue complete the form below, or call her on +64 9 8377877 – leaave a message is she’s not available.
- *Edited from: Making Exercise Stick: Insights from Those Who’ve Succeeded | Psychology Today by ustin Kompf, Ph.D. in exercise and health sciences from UMass Boston*
-
Health benefits of physical activity: the evidence CMAJ. 2006 Mar 14; 174(6): 801–809.doi: 10.1503/cmaj.051351 There is irrefutable evidence of the effectiveness of regular physical activity in the primary and secondary prevention of several chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, hypertension, obesity, depression and osteoporosis) and premature death.