Taking the First Step

                                                           Taking The First Step

Many of us have fitness goals, but so many things can get in our way and keep us from reaching them. Many of us are afraid of failure or embarrassment, but remember how many times the Bible tells us not to be afraid, and to give our fears to the Lord. Some of us are not even sure how to start, so here are some simple steps to help anyone who wants to crush fitness goals.

Believe it is possible.

People share their fitness goals with me all the time. They tell me what they wish they could do, and then they tell me why they are sure it will never happen. They see the impossible instead of even trying to make it a possibility. I have a sign that says It is only impossible until you make it happen. There is a fear of failure that keeps us from being in better health. You have nothing to lose by taking a chance on yourself. It is amazing when you see someone prove he or she can conquer something difficult, and all you have to do is take the first step.

Make a plan.

Decide what you need to do to meet your fitness goals. It is always a good idea to consult with a doctor first. Listen to your doctor’s suggestions, and ask about ways to support your fitness routine with good nutrition.

Find someone who is already good at what you want to do. Figure out what that person is doing to succeed. Ask questions, and look for information and inspiration that will help you.

Once you have an idea of what you need to do, write it all out and post it somewhere where you will see it easily. Implement your plan slowly, and do not overdo it at first, or you will give up. Gradually increase your intensity until you are at the level you want.

Pick an activity you enjoy.

Fitness routines come in many forms, including dancing, walking, running, swimming, biking, tennis, and many more. Do what you enjoy so that you will be motivated to continue to do it.

Remember your reasons.

There are some good reasons to exercise, and it helps to list what yours are to keep you on track. Here is my list to give you an idea.

• I want to be in good shape to play with my grandson.
• As I age, I want to be mobile and avoid medications.
• Being unhealthy can be expensive.
• Good eating and plenty of exercise will keep my weight down.
• I like meeting people when I exercise.
• Exercise and being in shape will help with stress.

Be consistent

If you exercise regularly, you will see changes in your body and your mood. If you stop and start, you will not see the same benefits from your routine, and it will be harder to find the motivation to start again.

Give yourself grace.

There will be setbacks, and when this happens, tell yourself you will do better tomorrow. Feeling guilty will not help the situation. Be your own cheerleader by vowing to do better.

Eliminate excuses.

Excuses are roadblocks to your success. Instead of saying why you cannot do something, find a plan to make what you want to do happen. Excuses hold you back from taking the first step towards fulfilling your goals and being happier.

Change your behavior.

Your routine and your daily behavior might be undermining your goals. What do you need to change to clear the path to crush your fitness goals? Make physical activity something you look forward to, whether that means exploring the neighborhood, challenging a friend, or making your activity a chance to meet new people.

Make exercise part of your routine.

Make exercise something you do every day, like eating breakfast and walking the dog. If you make it a part of your day instead of deciding whether all the stars are aligned just right, you will have much more success. Wake up, lace up the sneakers, and get going. You will feel better the rest of the day.

You can accomplish any fitness goal, and you will see your health and your life change when you do. Our health affects everything we do, and when we are out of shape our mental health can suffer as well as our physical. Take that first step towards better health, and never look back.