By now I am sure everyone’s heard about the glowing benefits of diving into a fitness regime. But let’s be real; the journey isn’t all sunshine and post-workout smoothies. Many people start exercise programs with enthusiasm, only to give up shortly after. Why does this happen, and how can you push through the challenges? Before we discuss how lifting weights can lift your spirits, here’s what you should genuinely expect:
You Just Might Feel Worse before You Feel Better
Starting a new fitness program, especially after some hiatus or even for the first time, might feel like being thrown into the deep end. In fact your body might protest… loudly. You might wonder why that YouTube workout or gym session leaves you feeling like you've had a close encounter with a truck. This is your body's initial response to a sudden change and it is pretty normal. You might feel dizzy, nauseous, sore, and question your sanity.
Remember the first time you take on any new challenge, whether physical or not, it is not going to be easy. But just as you learned to conquer those challenges, your body learns, adapts, and strengthens. Give it a week or two; before you know it you’ll start feeling that post-workout awesomeness.
Everything Takes Time
Real talk? You didn’t get to where you are in a day, and you won’t change it in one either. The best progress is slow, steady, and sustainable. Quick fixes might be tempting, but they often rebound harder. Remember, your fitness journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Slow progress may be frustrating at times, but it is absolutely still progress. Remember small steady changes over time lead to BIG changes in the long run.
Mistakes Are Part of the Process
Just as a cat might misjudge a jump (and promptly act like it meant to do that), you'll make mistakes. Maybe you'll overdo a workout or undervalue recovery. Perhaps you'll choose the donut over the dumbbell some days. And that's okay. The goal isn't perfection; it's progress. Each mistake is a lesson, steering you closer to your goals. The important thing is to give yourself the grace to make mistakes and the understanding to learn from them.
Embrace the Sacrifices
Every epic quest requires sacrifices. Be it time, certain foods, or old habits, embracing change is vital. Think about it – every hobby, even binge-watching that new series or getting lost in a video game, requires some sacrifice. But when it comes to your health and fitness, the rewards are tangible and lasting.
The Payoff is Priceless
Sure, the road might be peppered with challenges. But imagine the satisfaction when you power through a workout that once seemed impossible or when your health metrics improve. The newfound energy, mental clarity, and physical strength – all worth it.
Final Thought
There’s no “perfect” time to embark on this journey. But why wait? As someone who's seen countless souls transform over decades, trust me when I say – you're worth the effort. I absolutely believe you can do it, and you should too. And if you need help or don’t know where to start, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Comments