Giving up on Getting Fit

It’s that time of year again. Sadly, this is when so many people stop going to the gym for a variety of reasons. You can tell because it only take two minutes to find a parking spot instead of five. There’s room in the spin class to grab a bike near the fan. And no lines for checking your kids into the child care room.

Does this apply to you? Did you buy a gym membership in January but don’t feel like going anymore? Perhaps it’s time to reassess what’s really going.

One of the easiest things we do is set ourselves up for failure. Yes, we all need to exercise a certain number of hours per week, according to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. But if you’ve never exercised regularly, this is a huge change in your routine. Chances are, your lifestyle may not be ready for it. Trying to spend that much time at the gym can affect your family and your work. Children need help with their homework. Meals need preparing. If you don’t carefully figure out how to fit exercise into your weekly routine, it will become a hassle. And then it’s easy to give up.

Your partner has to be on board as well. Time at the gym takes away time with them – unless they go with you. It also can put them in the position of filling in for you. Do they mind getting the kids to bed without you? Or waiting to eat until you get home? These are conversation to have.

Another reason people stop working out is because it’s not enjoyable. This is especially true if you’re not eating healthy food. Healthy food makes you feel good.

So, where do you go from here?

Sometimes, small steps lead to success.

Make tiny changes to your diet at first. Giving up diet soda can be as hard as quitting smoking for some people. Tackle one poor eating habit at a time.

If you don’t know what to eat, consult a registered dietician. Once you start putting nutrient-rich foods into your body, you will notice a dramatic boost in energy. Suddenly, the idea of getting to the gym won’t be as intimidating. Keep your goals realistic. Slowly increase the number of times you exercise every week.

You will see results, just not overnight.

Learn More about Bon Secours In Motion Personal Training

Alice Warchol is a fitness instructor and freelance health writer.