Practical Strategies to Address the Challenges of Starting and Continuing a Fitness Journey

Hello, readers!

Embarking on a fitness journey is one of the most rewarding investments you can make for yourself. But let’s be real—it’s not without challenges. From finding the motivation to start, to staying consistent in the face of setbacks, it can be tough. The good news? With the right mindset and a sustainable approach, you can overcome these hurdles and enjoy the lifelong benefits of health and well-being.

1. Build the Right Mindset

Your mindset is the foundation of your fitness journey. Here’s how to build a strong one:

a. Make 'Health and Well-being' a Must-Have

Think of your health as a priceless gift. Investing time and effort in yourself is not indulgent—it’s essential. Fitness is a gift that keeps on giving, improving your physical, mental, and emotional resilience.

b. Embrace the Journey

Fitness isn’t a destination; it’s a lifelong journey. When you start or resume after a break, discomfort is inevitable. You might feel frustrated when results don’t come as quickly as you’d like. Don’t let these moments define your path. Soldier on my friend. Persevere. Speaking from over 15 years of my fitness journey, I assure you that your fitness will eventually become your anchor—a secret store of strength to combat negativity and despair.

c. Cultivate a Learner’s Mindset

Unsure where to begin or how to improve? Be curious and proactive. Seek guidance from empathetic mentors who can help you navigate this journey. Learning new techniques and approaches will not only enhance your progress but also keep things exciting.

2. Adopt a Sustainable Approach with Functional Fitness

While aesthetic goals like weight loss or muscle gain are common motivators, focusing on functional fitness offers long-term benefits and is easier to sustain.

a. Functional Fitness Goals

Functional fitness focuses on enhancing your ability to perform real-life activities and movements efficiently. Instead of just aiming to lose weight or build muscle, consider goals like running or cycling a certain distance, performing a set number of pull-ups, getting better at a sport or mastering yoga poses like Surya Namaskar.

For example:

• If you can currently run 1 km in 12 minutes at 5 km/h, set a SMART goal to double your speed to 10 km/h in three weeks.

• If you can only do one pull-up, aim to achieve five within a month.

These goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART), making it easier to track progress and celebrate milestones.

b. Structured Planning

Break your goals into smaller, manageable steps. For instance:

• Week 1: Run 1 km in 11 minutes.

• Week 2: Reduce the time to 10:30 minutes.

• Week 3: Achieve your goal of 10 minutes.

This structured approach keeps you motivated and focused.

c. Focus on Ability, Not Appearance

It’s tempting to chase a specific body type, but this can lead to disappointment. Olympians, for example, come in all shapes and sizes depending on their sport, yet they excel in their respective fields. Celebrate your progress in terms of what your body can achieve—whether it’s lifting heavier weights, running faster, or becoming more flexible.

d. Start Small and Scale Up

Begin with simple, practical goals that are challenging but achievable. For example, commit to 10 minutes of skipping daily or mastering a single push-up. Once you’ve established consistency, gradually aim higher. Small wins build momentum, turning workouts into a rewarding habit.

e. Enjoy the Side Effects

Functional fitness goals come with a range of positive side effects: improved cardiovascular health, better sleep, stress relief, better sleep quality, and even guilt-free indulgences. By focusing on ability, you’ll naturally experience these benefits without making them the sole focus.

3. Staying Motivated: A Few Tips

1. Track Your Progress Whether it’s through a fitness app, journal, or simply mental notes, tracking your achievements keeps you aware of how far you’ve come.

2. Celebrate Small Wins Don’t wait for big milestones to celebrate. Every extra kilometer run, every second shaved off your plank, every additional pull-up is a reason to feel proud.

3. Find a Community Join a fitness group, class, or online forum. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can provide encouragement and accountability.

4. Be Kind to Yourself Life happens, and sometimes you’ll miss a workout or fall short of a goal. That’s okay. Treat these moments as opportunities to reflect and reset, not reasons to give up.

Conclusion

Starting and maintaining a fitness journey is no small feat, but more importantly it’s a decision that can transform your life. It requires practical strategies to address the challenges of starting and continuing a fitness journey. With the right mindset, sustainable goals, and a focus on functional fitness, you can create a routine that’s both enjoyable and effective. Remember, fitness is not just about looking good—it’s about feeling strong, capable, and ready to tackle whatever life throws your way.

Yours in health, Anil Kumar

So, what are your fitness goals? Share them in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to keep moving forward. 💪