While writing a recent blog post, I came to the realization that most people check out while they work out because they don’t really like what they are doing and are just trying to “vacate the premises” so they don’t have to deal with the discomfort.
I have always enjoyed working out, moving and training my body. So that concept is a little hard for me to grasp. However, I have worked some shitty jobs in my life and have had to grin and bear those.
Are you struggling through a Crossfit workout because one of your friends said it was the best way to lose weight? Or are you torturing yourself through a Yin Yoga class because you spouse is telling you you need to chill out? In my experience if you don’t enjoy what you are doing, or some aspect of it, at least 70-80% of the time, you will eventually quit. And the reality is, the best program is the program you do consistently.
What if you don’t like working out at all? … Then it may be time to evaluate why you’re doing it. Does your goal provide you enough incentive?
I once had a really good friend who was overweight ask me how to lose the weight. I knew he had worked out before and could get a gym membership and try it again. But, knowing him, I understood there just wasn’t enough incentive. So, I told him to find something he loved or something he’s always wanted to do and to focus on that. Then make his working out / training all about enhancing that goal.
He’d always wanted to do jujitsu, so he began training. He noticed that if he ate better he performed better. He also began strength training and aerobic conditioning as he realized that if he was stronger and had better aerobic conditioning he performed better. He established a clear purpose and enjoyed very tangible results.
If you don’t enjoy what you’re doing at least 70-80% of the time, it’s either time to find something new or focus on the purpose. Time to find something you enjoy and make your working out / training all about enhancing that. Give it greater meaning!
Are you enjoying what you’re doing at least 70-80% of the time?
What are your goals?
What do you want and why do you want it?