Achieve Your Fitness Goals: Learn How to Stay Consistent.

Consistency is one of the most difficult things in life. It takes real discipline to face discomfort and stay accountable when there is something we do not want to do. But guess what? The journey to consistency doesn’t have to be treacherous. With the right mindset and approach, it can actually be a lot of fun!

When we want something in life that’s worthwhile and not easily attainable, we must push through all of the excuses and “I don’t want to’s.” But with a bit of motivation and determination, you can power through the tough times and come out on top.

Since you’ve already taken the first step in battling inconsistency – the will to change – you’re already well on your way to achieving your goals. Congratulations! But if you’re feeling stuck, don’t worry – you’re not alone. We’ve all been there at some point. Whether you’re starting fresh or trying to get back on track, keep reading for some helpful tips to help you stay consistent and make the journey to your goals a little more fun!

1. Have a Clear Purpose

This is probably the first and most important step everyone should take before starting any kind of workout routine. Simply put, what is it that you want? Do you want to lose weight? Gain muscle? Improve your flexibility? Be able to run a 5K without stopping? Be honest with yourself and keep it very simple!

Once you’ve identified your goal, take some time to imagine what it would be like to have reached it. What are the other possible benefits that you may not have accounted for? What opportunities will open up for you? Will you be able to fit into your favorite pair of jeans again? Will you be able to keep up with your kids on the playground? Will you feel more confident in social situations? The possibilities are endless!

This simple planning and visualization exercise will give you more reasons to stay committed to your plan. It’s also something to remember when excuses or temptations start knocking at your door. When you feel like skipping a workout or cheating on your diet, remind yourself of your end goal and all the amazing things that will come with achieving it.

2. Find Something to Crave

About Your Workout

Working out doesn’t have to be a chore – in fact, it can be downright enjoyable if you find something to crave about it! Whether you’re into weightlifting, running, climbing, or yoga, there’s always something to look forward to.

If you’re a weightlifter, focus on the feeling of your muscles contracting and filling with blood as you lift. That pump can be addictive! Plus, there’s nothing like the sense of accomplishment that comes with increasing your reps or adding more weight to the bar.

If you’re a runner, aim for that “runner’s high” – that blissful, euphoric feeling that comes after a good run. Or, try focusing on the mental clarity that comes with a good run, and use that time to organize your thoughts and let go of stress.

If you’re a climber, savor the feeling of your muscles burning as you push yourself to complete a difficult problem. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the rush of adrenaline that comes with reaching the top of the wall!

And if you’re a yogi, focus on the improved mobility and relaxation you’ll feel after a good practice. With regular yoga practice, you’ll be able to reach further, bend deeper, and feel more grounded and centered throughout your day.

The point is, regardless of the activity that you choose to invest your time in, concentrate on the task at hand. Feel and understand the movements you are executing and discover the pleasure and satisfaction that comes with improving your skills and achieving your goals. By finding something to look forward to and focusing on the positive aspects of your workout, you can turn exercise into a joyful and fulfilling experience. Remember that physical activity is not just good for your body, but also for your mind and overall well-being. So, find what you love and make it a regular part of your life – your body and mind will thank you!

3. Steady Routine

Making the decision to work out regularly is a fantastic start, but it’s only the beginning. The hardest part is sustaining that commitment and turning it into a habit. The key to achieving your goals is consistency, but how do you make it a part of your lifestyle? Here are some tips to help you build a steady routine that sticks.

1. Set realistic goals

One of the most common reasons people give up on their fitness goals is because they set unrealistic expectations. It’s essential to be honest with yourself about what you want to achieve and how long it might take to get there. Set small, achievable goals that you can measure and track over time. For example, you might start with a goal of walking for 30 minutes every day for a week, gradually increasing the duration or intensity as you go.

2. Find a workout buddy

Exercising with a friend or partner can be a powerful motivator. When you’re accountable to someone else, you’re less likely to skip a workout or give up on your routine. You can also push each other to try new things and keep each other on track. If you can’t find a workout buddy in person, consider joining an online community or a fitness app that connects you with like-minded individuals.

3. Mix it up

Repeating the same workout over and over again can quickly become monotonous and demotivating. To avoid getting stuck in a rut, mix up your routine by trying new exercises or activities. Not only will this keep things interesting, but it can also challenge your body in new ways and help you avoid plateaus.

4. Celebrate your progress

It’s easy to get discouraged when you don’t see immediate results, but it’s important to remember that progress takes time. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and use them as motivation to keep going. Maybe you ran for an extra 5 minutes or lifted a slightly heavier weight – acknowledge these accomplishments and use them to fuel your next workout.

Don’t go all-out on your new plan and risk burnout. Be honest about how much time you can afford to spend working out and how often you can commit to it. Develop a routine that is sustainable and achievable for you. For instance, if you can only spare 30 minutes a day, five days a week, then make that your routine. Don’t try to do too much too soon, or you’ll risk becoming overwhelmed and giving up altogether.

4. Journal regularly

Journaling is a powerful tool for consistency. It allows you to communicate with yourself and track your progress. Use a journal exclusively for your training and record how your workouts went, how you felt, what you learned, and what adjustments you plan to make next time. Highlight breakthroughs and reflect on them later in your training. Regular journaling can help you stay on track and stay motivated.

Apply these steps… Reading this alone

won’t do you any good!

Consistency is challenging, but it is attainable with the right strategy. Keep these steps in mind and remember that you are in control. Building a steady routine is about finding what works for you and committing to it. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a beginner, the key is to start small and build up gradually. With patience, perseverance, and a little bit of creativity, you can make consistency a habit and achieve your fitness goals. Good luck with your journey!