Fitness Programs / Why Staying Fit Is So Difficult

Why Staying Fit Is So Difficult

An important part of maintaining balance in your life is activity. In today's world of fast-paced information, food, and entertainment, staying physically active is often avoided or overlooked. I have always had an appreciation for fitness, and an understanding of the link between quality of life and my overall health. I have spoken to many people regarding the subject of fitness and the stigmatism that comes with that industry. We are constantly bombarded with advertisements about being fit or getting fit, why we should be fit. For people I speak to it has gotten to the point that they refuse to take part in fitness as a protest, because of all the hype around it.

Now one thing I can appreciate about people starting anything new is that there is a massive discomfort in beginning, or beginning again. Especially with fitness. It has become a multibillion dollar industry and it always seems like just when you think you have a handle on what you are doing they come out with the latest gadget or the new and improved version of an exercise. So how can we keep it all in perspective?

In my earlier article "Four keys to Success" I spoke about vision, being present, inspiration and action. These concepts are important even when looking at fitness. When I have coached people with the issues around fitness these keys are important. Now we all can see ourselves as being fit but this is actually what discourages us also. We see the end result and not the journey. Remember that in life it is about the constant development and achievement, and not just the end result. I have found with most people once they reach a goal they feel a sense of completion. This sense of reaching the finish line creates closure in their minds and they slowly revert back to typical routines. So embrace the success of achieving a result every day. This will help you to stay motivated as you change your habits. Changing beliefs on a deep level takes time so be compassionate.

The other important element in fitness is inspiration. It never ceases to amaze me that people beginning with a fitness routine go it alone. They look for the cheapest facility, and just move from machine to machine without understanding the concepts or how to develop the skill of fitness. If you were to renovate your kitchen, would you just start smashing it apart? Would you let your best friend deliver your baby because you trust them? Would you just pick any financial institution to handle your business transactions, or just buy the cheapest book keeping software to track your expenses?

I often see people use that level of regard for their fitness development, and then quit when they do not see results. Choosing your fitness facility and fitness mentor is as important as choosing any financial advisor. This is not only your hard earned money but your physical well-being. In the past I have interviewed gym managers and personal trainers. I look for people who demonstrate that they want my business. My trainer must align with me and my availability. I focus on a balanced life. That means I do not have 3 hours a day, six days a week to spend at the gym. I also am not training for any fitness competition, or going to the local beach to do a music video while I oil up and play beach volley ball.

My goals are simple. I like to comfortably fit in a size 33 pant. When I go for my annual physical I enjoy my doctor telling me all is well. The trainers I've had in the past understand what I am looking for and how to teach me to get the results I want. Remember, fitness is about health and feeling complete and energetic. It is not about the competition or who look's best on the beach. That's called "Ego" and we can cover that in a later blog if you'd like.

To offer some more help with this take a look at my earlier article"4 keys to Success" and use the keys to plan your new approach to success with health and fitness.