Over the years I have trained hundreds of people of all ages who have covered the full spectrum of fitness levels. One of the most important things I have learned, is that it doesn’t really matter what type of fitness program you do or even how often you choose to do it; the key is sticking to it long enough to get the results you want.
There are a number of things that I believe are essential to a fitness program if you want to increase your chances of committing to an ongoing commitment.
1. CONVENIENCE
It must be convenient. If the travel time to your place of training is more than 15 minutes, the likelihood of you going regularly will decrease significantly. Thirty minutes would need to be added to your workout time (and that’s with no traffic). In todays busy world we are all time poor so your best bet is to find a local gym that is a stones throw away from either your home or your work.
2. INTERESTING
Your program needs to be one that you are interested in rather than one that your friend likes. There is no use spending money on a membership to a centre that focuses on spin classes if you hate riding bikes, no matter how good it might be for you. It is all about you and your fitness interests. Those who are internally motivated; meaning they exercise because they love it; are the ones who stay in it for the long run.
3. ACCOUNTABILITY
Find a way to be accountable. Whether it’s a fitness buddy or a trainer who you ask not to let you off the hook, push yourself to be accountable to someone else and your own motivation and commitment will grow.
4. COMFORT
You have to feel comfortable wherever you go. Don’t join a body building gym if you feel uncomfortable having people pose in front of mirrors all day and night. Some places will have a vibe about them that will make YOU feel comfortable so listen to your gut feeling and choose somewhere that feels right to you.
5. VARIETY
Variety is the spice of life and so it is with exercise. Don’t be afraid of trying new and different things. If the elliptical is usually your thing, try switching to the treadmill. Alternate between machines and free weights. You don’t have to reinvent your entire routine every week, just shift it around a little to keep it interesting for you and also work on different muscle groups in your body.
6. HELP
There is always someone available who knows more than you do so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Personal trainers are paid to advise you, write programs and motivate you so they are a perfect way for you to start to learn and build your knowledge of fitness, health and your own training schedules. When people feel like they are not achieving they aturally lose momentum and their desire to work out so don’t be afraid to ask for guidance.
No-matter how good an exercise program is, it will have no benefit to you if you don’t turn up and participate so hopefully these tips will help you find a fitness program you love, one you actively turn up to and do!
Have a great day,
Shannon