Why 90% of Fitness Goals Fail
Everyone begins with the very best of intentions. But then, what happens? Early January, gyms are filled with people who vow “THIS will be the year…..” All with the best of intentions and goals in mind. But in actuality, 1 out of every 2 people gives up on their workout routine by mid-February! There’s a lot of year left after mid-February. Why is it that so many people fail to achieve their goals, when they start out so enthusiastic for change and success? First of all, you have to make a decision to START. You can say you’re too busy, too tired, too (insert excuse), but how badly do you want it? You cannot achieve results without STARTING! Also, have you set a specific, written goal. Psychologist who study the art of success claim that 95-97% of people who do NOT have written goals fail, while the 3-5% who do have written goals triumph. You need to be among that elite 3-5% if you want to succeed!
Are you making your fitness goals a priority in your life? We can all say we don’t have enough time. And who does? But the bottom line is, determine what you value? Your health? Do you value productive energy when spending time with your family and/or kids? If these are true, than you cannot afford to NOT make the time. When you finally make exercise a priority, NOT an option, you’ll begin to feel more energized and less stressed. And feel a sense of accomplishment that you are doing it!
Are you obsessing over pounds lost as your only gauge? Remember, muscle is more dense than fat. Concentrate on INCHES. If the only thing you did was add one pound of muscle, you will ultimately lose five pounds of body fat within six months because muscle burns calories (fat) at rest and fat does not. Focus in inches, NOT pounds!
This is not to say you can start exercising and NOT change your eating habits. Working out does not give you a free pass in the kitchen. Eating and nutrition comprise about 70% of the results you can obtain when it comes to changing the shape of your body. WHAT you eat and WHEN you eat are equally important. CHANGE your eating habits for success!
Don’t quit! In order to see measurable results, you need to stick with your new exercise routing for 90-120 days if you TRULY want to make a lifestyle change and maintain your results. Commit to a 90 day plan! During those 90 days…..DRINK WATER! Water has many benefits. Your muscle tissue is about 75% water based.
If you are dehydrated (and most people are), you will have more aches and pains than you really should have. When most people feel hungry, their body is usually telling them they are thirsty. Water also fights off hunger pains or will not allow you to eat as much food if you are drinking it diligently.
These tips can all work. But, you must BELIEVE IN YOURSELF! HONOR YOUR BODY! Every day is a new day! You owe it to yourself to take care of yourself for you and for your family! Your health should be a priority! Do not put it off till tomorrow. Strive for progress not perfection!!!!
In Good Health,
Craig Chapin