Two key factors that help me achieve my fitness goals

It’s January, so naturally a great time to discuss all things fitness, right?
(hopefully)

Committing a fitness goal (or any goal) is going to require sacrifice, planning, determination, persistence (and more), but there are two factors I have found that make the biggest difference in achieving my fitness goals.

The first?

Love what you do.

I know that may sound way too simple, but if you truly enjoy what you’re doing you will find a way to make it work. You’ll stop with the excuses and you’ll commit to putting in the work.

I really love lifting, I love how it makes me feel, I enjoy it (for the most) part when I’m doing it, I look forward to my personal time at the gym, and my body feels great when I keep it moving and fuel it properly. Because of this I will change plans, sacrifice other things or re-arrange my day so I can get there.

On the contrary, I really don’t like running right now, and it’s obvious, as my commitment to running is non-existent and I’ve run maybe 2 times in the last two months. I don’t love it, so I find excuses, and end up doing other things.

The second?

Community

My friend Meagan wrote an entire post on this last week, but having the support of a community, no matter the size, is unbelievably important.

Even if it’s one friend, family member or co-worker that knows about your goal, having someone other than yourself to hold you accountable is necessary. There are always going to be days (no matter how fit or committed you are) that you don’t want to show up. This is normal, and even as someone who loves working out I have so many days where the gym doesn’t sound appealing. But my community reminds me of my goal, and they each help me stay focused in their own way. Hollen will tell me to get my butt to the gym when we’re about to leave the office, Natalie and I will chat throughout the day about workouts and macros, Devin and I will go swim laps together, and Annie and I talk at least once per week.

My advice if you’re still looking to find a workout you enjoy, or create your community?

Just start trying.

Try different workout classes, different studios, and different gyms. Many places offer trial periods when you’re looking to join, or at least your first class free.

Introduce yourself to people, reach out to a like-minded friend, find a community of support online (BBG is great example of this).

It can be challenging and sometimes scary, but chances are you’ll be glad you did.

And because I’m curious – I want to hear what your favorite workouts are in the comments!

xo, Maddy