5 Simple Steps For Completely Changing Your Workout Game

Agitation is the word that comes to mind when I think of all the newcomers crowding the gym in January and February. I can’t get to the equipment I need because of the influx of strangers in my way. I feel frustrated when my workouts are prolonged and I have to change my routine. Sometimes I want to hand out a list of tips to all the newbies so they don’t get discouraged and quit like I know they will. The telltale sign comes in March when everything gets back to normal and the gym resembles a ghost town.

I remember when I was the new kid on the block. I would start the New Year off full of enthusiasm, paying for a membership that I hardly used. I laugh at it now, but I remember crying and cussing, trying to get out of contracts that I signed when it would have been easier to use the membership instead. I guess it was the level of intimidation I felt around all those that seemed like pro athletes. I felt like such a phony in the gym, without a clue, and instead of asking for help, I would pretend that I knew what I was doing.

What a difference a day, a month, or a few years makes. I’ve been consistent in the gym for over 20 years and counting. I’ve found the key that unlocked my determination, motivation, and perseverance. It’s so good that I wish I could bottle it up and sell it. Yep, millionaire status, baby! So here it is, and believe me when I say it’s simple yet a game-changer:

1. Get sick of yourself  

Yep, sometimes you have to hit rock bottom before you level up. That’s when your weight is out of control and you know that you’re going to have to stop complaining and do something about it or else you’ll have to resign yourself to complaining about it for the rest of your life.

2. Wrap your head around it

You cannot change your bad habits unless you first give it some real thought. You have to read about it and then get your head in the game to affect real change. This includes reading about exercise, nutrition, clean eating, etc. Yep, get your bookworm on and read and think on those things! As a man thinketh, so he is.

3. Get excited about food

You have to realize that diet is 80% of losing weight and 20% exercise. So, commit to healthier eating. Look at it as a journey to a new you, a new way of life, and consider it a lifestyle change and not a diet.

4. Use the Buddy System

If you’re going to exercise, find a partner. You have to be accountable to someone, and working out with someone with the same commitment as you do is vital. Half the battle is won just by finding the right workout partner.

5. Show up 

Consistency is critical. Show up to the gym or class on those scheduled days. Show up for your partner until you start showing up for yourself. I joined a boot camp, so I showed up for all that group energy. It’s amazing!

So, there you have it. Go out and conquer the world. It’s your time to change the game!