Motivation comes in many forms. Whether it’s used to get somewhere or to stay far, far away from something, motivation drives us to Midtown every day.
Some may think we are all here to lose weight or to be a certain size but that’s just not the case.
There are many reasons why we are here, getting healthier, and making changes.
As a trainer, most people think working out, eating right, and making goals comes easier for me than you.
Let me assure you, it doesn’t!
Sure, I may have more overall knowledge, but applying it to my life can be just as challenging. And after having a baby almost a year ago, it’s even harder! So yes, I’d love to have my pre-baby body back exactly the way it was (mainly so I could fit into all of my old clothes), but that’s not always possible.
So instead of focusing on the number on the scale, I decided to focus on fitness-based goals. This is more motivational for me than stepping on the scale because it puts a positive spin on getting where I want to be.
So what are fitness-based goals?
Well, instead of weighing yourself and feeling disappointed with what you see, focus on “upping” one aspect of your workout.
Add a bit more weight than you always do on your favorite exercise, or two more reps than last time, or burn an extra 100 calories in the same amount of time doing cardio.
That way feeling stronger or faster will help you towards your ultimate goal.
After my son was born, and I was back working out, I would try to get to a certain block faster than I did the last time on my run, or ahem, jog. And I was super-excited when I could finally do 12 full, (not “girlie”) pushups on the ground, so much that I posted it on Facebook to make sure everyone knew!
That’s when I knew I was getting closer to the old me and I didn’t need the scale to tell me so.
Now some people don’t care about weight or size. That’s just not why they they are regulars at the Club. They are here to get their insides healthier. One of my clients’ dad passed away from heart disease and she knew that if she didn’t make a change she’d meet the same end. Now she uses exercise as a stress-reliever and also recognizes she sleeps better since she’s been working out.
Our sessions have made a huge difference in her daily life.
My dad also has his health as a goal. After telling him numerous times (he’d probably call it harping, I am a trainer you know), that he needs to work out and stop relying on medicine to cure his ails, he started coming in regularly and in less than a year, he was on lower doses of his cholesterol and blood pressure medications.
So, find a way to gauge your health by either your energy level, quality of sleep, or whether you are spending less on prescriptions. These are huge benefits you may not see right now, but when you’re 70 and want to spend the afternoon with your grandkids without having to sit down to rest, you’ll be glad you worked hard now!
Another reason you might come to Midtown is the social aspect of the Club. We pride ourselves on being your “third place,” after home and work, and on creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
So knowing there is a group of people waiting for you in a group ex class or that your lifting partner needs a spotter, gives you another reason to show up. Sometimes they help you work hard even though you’d rather be doing anything other than working out. And sometimes you just like hanging out with them and may even hit the M-Cafe for a bite to eat after class. Either way, they motivate you to keep going and getting healthier!
So, what motivates you? We’d love to know what brings you back to Midtown day after day. And how can we help you stay motivated?
Working out just makes me happier. I always procrastinate on it daily but then I say to myslef “just do it because you know when you are done you will feel great”. It’s true! Working out= me being happier and a better mom and wife in return!!
very smart thinking my beautiful daughter in-law
Thanks for the feedback Jillian! Working out on a regular basis does help us feel better in many ways, other than the number on the scale. I’m glad you’ve recognized them yourself! Keep up the regular exercise and you will only benefit more and more. Good job!