In all the years I’ve been coaching people on improving their health, fitness and happiness, there’s one story I’ve heard more than any other.
“I’ll start after ______.”
Fill in the blank with any excuse you like.
After I get back from vacation.
After the holidays.
After my work schedule calms down.
Here’s the thing: If you’re waiting for the perfect time, it’s never going to come … because there is none.
The answer to the question, “When should I start,” is always, “Now.”
The longer you wait, the harder things will be. And the longer you “Do The Things,” the more powerful exercise and eating right will be for you.
Here are a few things to focus on if you’re ready to get started:
Focus On Strength Training
I know I’m biased, but hear me out. Strength training sends the strongest signal to our brains to fight father time. As in, building muscle … not losing it. This leads to healthier joints, better stamina, and the ability to move more and move better doing things you love.
Strength training also improves heart health, decreases abdominal fat, and can help manage blood sugar levels4. Even just 30 to 60 minutes a week of strength training may lower your risk of premature death from all causes, cancer, and heart disease.
Don’t Try To Be Perfect
There’s a reason most diets fail … they’re not sustainable. So if you’re looking for perfection, you’re setting yourself up for failure – especially with all the temptations we have at this time of year. Focus on one small improvement at a time. Eating more fruits and veggies and having protein with every meal, for example. And don’t beat yourself up if you grab a holiday cookie. Just do more things right than wrong and you’ll be away ahead of the game.
Studies show that people who exercise regularly make healthier food choices naturally, like eating less red meat and fried foods. So by starting your fitness journey, you’re already setting yourself up for better nutrition habits.
Commit To Something
You need a “Why.” I often tell my clients that the word WORK is literally the first part of WORKout. You will need a reason beyond discipline to keep this thing going. It can be family or friends, or your coach. I don’t care who or what it is – just anything and anyone you can commit to beyond yourself.
Scheduling your workouts like appointments and finding an accountability partner can significantly increase your chances of sticking to your routine. Remember, consistency is key to achieving your health and fitness goals.
You can do this if you start today.
And if you’ve been doing it, but have fallen off track a bit like most of us do during holiday season, you can get BACK on track if you start today.