05/05/2023
Trapped in an endless weight-loss cycle? Here are the 3 main reasons holding you back...
and how you can fix it once and for all
Enduring unsustainable exercise and diet plans for 6-12 weeks is the accepted approach when it comes to your health and fitness. Though most crave a body they can feel proud of with a lifestyle they can maintain, they will often avoid a slower, longer term, and more sustainable approach.
From working in the fitness industry for ten years I've narrowed this problem down to 3 key reasons:
1. Unrealistic expectations: People will often over-estimate what they can achieve in 12 weeks, and under-estimate what they can do in 12 months
2. Being too attached to the outcome: This can result in people creating conditions to their happiness, for example: “I will be happy when I can wear my swimsuit without feeling self conscious", or a more common experience is looking at the number on the scale as if it's an indication of your worth as a person
3. Fear of isolation from their nearest and dearest: The lifestyle of someone that is lean and athletic is different to one that isn't. Meaning if you only get to see your friends down the pub, and they're not interested in getting fit, it is common for their friends to make fun of you, or you begin to drift away as the things you value start to evolve. (Which is scary for a lot of people!)
These reasons make the short-term "quick fixes" even more alluring, let me explain...
Imagine only being able to date someone if you promised to marry them after... how eager would you be to go on this date? If you're anything like me, you'd probably run the other way.
This is how most people feel when it comes to thinking about making permanent lifestyle changes. The idea of committing to something for the long term can be terrifying, especially if you don't have the guarantee of reaching your goal. People will choose to fail, and fail fast in order to prove themselves "right" by telling themselves "I knew you couldn't do it." Thus saving themselves time, energy and the feeling of disappointed. But it doesn't have to be that way...
You do not have to marry your fitness journey in order to succeed. Instead, you can start slow and refine your approach as you progress, and choose lifestyle habits you enjoy that also align with your goals.
Hate the gym? No problem! Picture yourself trying various physical activities, such as playing tennis, attending a dance class, or hiking in nature. By exploring different options, you can find activities you genuinely enjoy making your fitness journey feel more like a natural extension of your life instead.
Consistency and enjoyment are key for long-term success in health and fitness. By engaging in activities that you find pleasurable, you are more likely to stick with them and see sustainable progress over time, instead of resorting to quick fixes that don't last.
The challenge with this approach is that it requires patience, self-reflection, and being open to trying new things. People may feel overwhelmed or fearful of committing to a long-term plan, especially when short-term solutions seem more attainable and less daunting.
Try making a list of physical activities that interest you, and make a plan to try one new activity each week or month. As you explore these options, take note of what you enjoy and how it makes you feel. Over time, you can integrate the activities you love into your daily routine, forming sustainable habits that contribute to your long-term health and fitness goals.
Embrace the journey, and you'll be more likely to find sustainable success in your health and fitness endeavours.
