So sometimes I work with ‘normal’ people (not only crazy triathletes) who want to get fit/stronger/healthier. I often have to drill them to get a goal and a measurable way to achieve said goal. If the goal is too vague – ‘get fitter/stronger’ or ‘lose weight’ the chance that they stick to a training plan long term is not big. Losing weight is especially tricky because there is an easy way to measure that – weigh scale – but there are lots a ways to lose weight and most of them don’t set them up to keep weight off because it involves starving themselves and not starting a routine or lifestyle that they can maintain in perpetuity. I like to find out what they would like to be able to do better whether it’s just be able to be more active with their kids, do a fun run, do a half marathon, go up a flight of stairs without getting out of breath… etc. Then we set a measurable ultimate goal and realistic goal and make a plan to achieve it.
The reasons to start exercising are very obvious and apparent – you can drastically reduce the chance of cardiovascular disease and metabolic disease (ie. diabetes) the biggest causes of death these days not to mention many other diseases and health complications. Everyone knows this but so few do something about it – they would rather take the risk. This is why I prefer to find something more tangible for my clients – something meaningful and important to their life – to try to achieve by training and set measurable goals.
Then it’s time to find an activity or exercises they can do that they enjoy (or don’t hate doing) , get a baseline and then set a goal to improve on that baseline. That way we ignore the weigh scale abs focus on training – actually feeling fitter and stronger.
This all involves a change in outlook and lifestyle which is needed if the change is gonna stick and the goals are to be achieved.
If getting started is going to require a big change in your routine and mindset there are ways to ‘shock’ you into it which I highly recommend.
Breathing exercises can energize your system and clear your mind. Cold showers in the mornings will definitely shock you into new mindset to start the day. I highly recommend doing these especially if starting a training program is a radical change to your routine and lifestyle so have a look at them – there are lots of good articles and youtube videos for them.
Start moving! Getting up to 90 min of activity per week (3x30min, 2×45 min – minimum 30 min at a time) can drastically increase your well being reduce your risk for disease. If that info is not enough find another meaningful reason – if you are still struggling contact me!
