We have all been there, we decide tomorrow is the day, “I’m going to go to the gym (or workout) EVERY DAY and eat healthy”.
That is a very bold move cotton. Let’s go over what that is really going to look like. Your going to work out everyday for a couple weeks, be sore, be tired, and your frustrated because Oh my god, you are not down 20lbs yet, and your super pissed so you eat a pizza, some ice-cream and crush a whole bottle of wine because that’s going to help.
Let’s try this other option.
I am going to work out three times this week, and I’m going to eat healthy Monday-Friday for the next two months and then regroup.
What sounds more manageable and easier to maintain?? DUH option 2!! Option 2 is going to get you started, get you moving and get you on a diet that’s pretty decent. If your goals are big you’re going to have to move from this plan to something a bit more tailored to your goals but instead of trying to flick a switch and make the MOST drastic change of your life you have now eased yourself in.
I have been in the fitness industry for ten years. I have coached THOUSANDS of hours and worked with hundreds of clients and I can honestly say those who start with option 2 are still going. Those who do option 1… well they are repeating the cycle for the hundredth time.
I’m thrilled you’re ready to start and get going, but I want to see that motivation day after day year after year. Going “hard” and burning out will only leave you feeling frustrated and hopeless. Don’t bite off more then you can chew!
Believe it or not, you can workout 3-4 times a week and have great results! You can eat clean 80% of the time and get great results! It doesn’t help to try and sprint the marathon, you’ll lose every time.
With January quickly approaching and your thoughts will be shifted towards goals for the next year, think it through and create a plan you can manage!