Have you ever thought of how hard it is to start working out and trying to eat clean? Like I always say, starting is always harder than to keep going.
It doesn't matter what "diet" or "exercise routine" you are following, they key to success: CONSISTENCY.
Here are 5 ways to stay consistent with exercising and better eating habits.
1. START SLOW AND SET REALISTIC GOALS
Developing some working out habits should not be a marathon but more like a steady state race, like my coach would say: "You can't compare your chapter 1 to somebody else's chapter 5"; We all started somewhere and have different goals, take your time and let your body build up some strength and endurance, set realistic goals; A realistic goal would be adding increments of 2-5 lb per week to your strength training instead of trying to lift heavy weights right away, or setting up a goal of loosing 1 lb of fat per week is more realistic than trying to lose 5 lbs of fat on a weekly basis. Remember: Consistency.
2. STOP RELYING ON MOTIVATION
Motivation is great kick start, but it will only take you so far, you won't feel motivated at all times, I can guarantee you, after the first week of training or after you have worn your brand new workout outfit to the gym, motivation tends to decrease. Creating a habit takes about 21-40 days, once exercising becomes a habit, lack of motivation won't stop you, that is why staying consistent plays an extremely important role during the process. Make exercising a part of your normal routine and results will be your biggest motivation.
3. FORM SMALL HABITS
By small things great things come to pass. That being said, don't try to go crazy by changing every single thing in your life the first week of a new training program, eating regimen or diet, this will cause you more stress and anxiety and might lead you to quit sooner than expected. It has been proven that small changes lead to bigger progress and sustainability in the long run; By forming small habits in your life, you will have less stress, it will be easier to adapt to new changes and healthier habits. Aim for exercising 3 days a week instead of 7, or swapping the loaded baked potato for butter and sour cream on the side so you are able to control portions.
4. HAVE A PLAN
Like in anything else in life, you set yourself for success when you plan ahead of time. Show up to the gym prepared, have a plan and a workout routine already in mind or better yet, written on your phone or paper. Don't wing it, but be prepared for flexibility as far as machines or equipment/order of exercises go. Have a plan, execute and results will follow.
5. STOP MAKING EXCUSES
You can have RESULTS or EXCUSES, not both. I’m tired, it was a long day at work, I am not in the mood….the list goes on and on. Excuses are easy to make and justify. Avoid making excuses and just do what you have to do. Always remember why you started and your end goal, get out of your comfort zone and Crush It!