Before I started boxing at Legends I didn’t enjoy working out, like at all. I was always game to try new things (at least once) and I tried lots of different things such as rock climbing, swimming, Zumba, doing home workout DVDs and occasionally running. Getting sweaty was more of an inconvenience than a benefit and it just meant washing my hair more often (you ladies feel me) and I intentionally used to avoid pushing myself to the point of excessive sweating for that very reason.
When I started boxing, it wasn’t just a free-for-all where I could blend in with the crowd and slack off. I actually had a coach there leading the class and giving me one-on-one attention. It added a whole new level to making improvements, growing as a boxer and having accountability. It was literally the FIRST time I have ever had that kind of accountability and it was a game changer. Since starting boxing in May of 2015, I try to go 5-6 times per week to get my workout in. It has become the absolute best part of my day, so much that I don’t mind being sweaty and washing my hair more often!
With January being the big month of resolutions, I wanted to share my 3 Best Tips for sticking to your fitness goals!1. Find Something You Enjoy, Do It For You
It may take more than a few tries to find a form of physical activity you enjoy and will want to do, but I believe finding something you don’t want to miss helps a lot. If you enjoy what you’re doing, you can use it as “you time” to care for yourself physically everyday. Also, keep an open mind and be willing to try new things. Don’t be afraid to switch it up from time to time, try joining a sports team or learning a new skill. The main point is to enjoy it so much that it’s hard for you to miss it.
2. Set Goals and Have Accountability
Setting goals and tracking progress is everything. Set small goals and once you attain those, make adjustments and set new ones. You will be much more likely to stick to a new routine if you are able to keep up with it and make improvements with time. Make sure to tell your coach about your goals and have them check in with you regularly about your progress. Before I had my coach at the gym, I didn’t ever have an accountability buddy for my fitness. I can tell you right now that it has made all of the difference. You don’t have to necessarily have a personal trainer or coach, but even a good friend or neighbor can help to hold you accountable.
3. Keep Going!
This one seems obvious, but even after the excitement of setting your resolutions wears off, when it gets hard and especially when you don’t feel like it, KEEP GOING. I heard this pro tip about setting goals once that asked “On a scale from 1-10, what number would you give your commitment to hitting this goal?” If your goal is a 10 our of 10 to eat only healthy things and your tempted with a candy bar, ask yourself, “Is this candy bar more important to me than me hitting my goal, is it higher than a 10 on my commitment level? It’s about creating accountability for yourself and being in control of the goals and commitments you make. Make your fitness a part of your daily routine just like taking a shower or brushing your teeth. In a few months, you won’t even think about it and you’ll want to do it everyday.
I hope these tips help you get out there to try new things, stay more active and stick to your goals. What are your best fitness tips?