Motivation and determination are the keys to any success. This especially applies to fitness. Whether you start working towards a fitness goal and get bored, don’t see the results in a timeline that you expected, or get caught up with other priorities…we’ve all been there. The important thing is making the conscious choice to begin again.
When it came to wanting to write a blog focused on tips for staying motivated it was a no-brainer that we thought to consult our Master Personal Trainer, James Parker-Ashley. James joined the MINT team back in 2016 and has been able to balance a thriving personal training career at MINT and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
How does he do it? Well… we asked him! Check out these pro tips to stay motivated.
- Rember, fitness is for life.
When you make the decision to prioritize your health or achieve a fitness goal it’s important to realize that long-term success comes from making fitness a part of your daily routine rather than just a means to reach your goals. Find ways to incorporate movement and physical activity every day. That doesn’t mean you need to make it to the gym 7 days a week 52 weeks a year but finding natural ways to move your body that fit into your lifestyle (along with more challenging workouts) will be the key to long-term success.
- Make it something you enjoy
Throughout life, there are going to be countless things that we “have” to do that doesn’t bring us joy. Don’t make fitness one of those things. There are so many different ways to move your body and be physically active you should find the approach that you enjoy and look forward to the most! Love to dance and let loose? Try Zumba! Are you looking for something that allows you to own how challenging your workout is day-to-day? Pilates may be perfect for you. Looking to zone out and get out of your own head? We’d recommend cycle! The fitness pathways are endless. The best thing? At MINT you can try a variety of styles allowing you to find the perfect fit.
- Find a support system
You are not in this alone. Look to your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors (whoever!) to join you! Having a support system not only helps keep you accountable but also makes for more fun, engaging workout.
- Reward yourself along the way
Remember to celebrate the small wins along the way to your larger goals. Being able to provide an internal reward (or sometimes even external!) can help keep you on track to a long-term commitment to regular exercise.
- Allow for periods of grace
No one is productive 100% of the time. If you’re too busy, are discouraged by not seeing results, or just don’t feel up to it, take a day off! We live in a world of constant pressures and it’s important to go easy on yourself. There is strength in recognizing when your body (and mind) needs a break and when you’re ready to jump back into it. You need the balance of push and pull in order to maintain healthy and steady growth.
“Repeat this to yourself… You will not lose if you do not quit. Whatever “winning’ or “losing” looks like to you, you will always have the opportunity to achieve your goals if you consciously make the decision not to quit. Recognize when you need to rest versus when you decide to quit.” – James Parker-Ashley