I work out so I can...

Welcome to afitnewyou!  Today I would like to talk to you about finding your personal inspiration to reach your fitness goals, particularly in the gym.  There have been many commercials and marketing campaigns asking “what drives you?” or “what fuels you?” They are asking you what motivates you to put in the time and sweat in the gym.  Some people are already driven, and some need that extra push.  So, if you are one of those self-motivated people to “hit the gym”, I ask what has you acting on your motivation?  If you’re someone who needs that extra push, what will drive you to reach your fitness goals?

As a personal trainer, I always took to heart the word “personal” in that moniker.  As I meet clients, the first conversation I have with them revolves around what is their fitness history, and what are their goals.  The training regimen is personalized to meet their needs and goals.  The training principles might stay the same, but how these individuals get to their individual goals may be different.  I’ve trained athletes from the professional to junior high level; people recovering from surgeries; and regular Joes and Janes who are just trying to look and feel better.  Everyone one of these people have their own goals.  Even over the course of my active life, my fitness goals have changed.  And as we know muscle has an incredible ability to adapt to stress and exercise so “routines” need to be changed appropriately, therefore our drive must change and adapt to meet your new goals.

To help motivate you, rather than asking you what your fitness goals are, I instead ask you to finish this sentence “I work out so I can…”

Here are some of the answers I have had from my own clients that are reflective of their personal goals:

I work out so I can look fabulous on my wedding day

I work out so I can make the varsity soccer team

I work out so I can dance at my daughter’s sweet 16

I work out so I can pass the police department’s physical fitness exam

I work out so I can lower my blood pressure and get off my mediation

I work out so I can play golf without any pain

I work out so I can feel good about myself

I work out so I can lose the last 10 pounds

I work out so I can lower my health insurance premium

I work out so I can keep up with my wife

I work out so I can look good in my vacation pictures

I work out so I can be a good example to my kids

           

            Whatever the reason you have to exercise, as long as it gets you being physically active, it’s a great reason.  The key to finding a reason that keeps you motivated and inspired, and not succumb to all of the excuses that would keep you from being healthy, is to find a reason that works for you.  I know sometimes it’s hard to follow good sound advice from health professionals…getting enough sleep, flossing everyday, avoiding stress, drinking enough water, eating exactly as we should.  Life can get in the way, and the excuses tend to mount.  And while it is recommended to be physically active everyday, it becomes hard to find the time, energy and often the motivation to do just that.  However, you can inspire yourself to get and remain active simply by finding your own personal goal.  You can stay motivated to reach your goals by completing the sentence:  I work out so I can…  Identifying your goals is a great first step to reaching these goals.  Knowing them is also a way to stay driven to reach a fit new you!