Do you ever feel like you're riding a roller coaster when it comes to your fitness progress? One day you're on top of the world, making gains and feeling unstoppable, and the next, you're stuck in a rut, wondering what the heck went wrong!
If this sounds all too familiar, you're not alone.
Inconsistent results are a common struggle on the fitness journey, but understanding why they happen can help us navigate through the twists and turns more effectively.
After years of working with a variety of clients as a personal trainer, here are what I would consider the top three reasons people struggle with inconsistent results:
1. Lack of Consistency:
Consistency is truly what makes or breaks all of us on this journey. And it's often easier said than done! Life throws curveballs, schedules get hectic, and motivation wanes. We start strong, hitting the gym regularly and eating well, only to find ourselves skipping workouts and indulging in unhealthy treats more often than we'd like to admit. While consistency isn't about being perfect every day; it is about showing up…even when it's hard. When we lack consistency, our progress becomes erratic, leading to frustration and self-doubt.
2. Unrealistic Expectations:
In today's world of instant gratification and quick-fix solutions, it's easy to fall into the trap of setting unrealistic expectations for ourselves. We expect overnight transformations and dramatic results without putting in the necessary time and effort. When reality falls short of our lofty expectations, we're left feeling disappointed and demotivated. It's essential to set realistic, achievable goals that align with our capabilities and timelines – which is why I coach clients to take it slow, adding habits in a “brick by brick” approach, not all at once. Slow progress is still progress, and every small step forward counts.
3. Not Addressing Underlying Issues: Sometimes, the root cause of our inconsistency lies deeper than just surface-level behaviors. Stress, lack of sleep, poor mental health, and underlying medical conditions can all impact our ability to stay consistent with our fitness routines. Ignoring these underlying issues only perpetuates the cycle of inconsistency. It's crucial to address these factors head-on, seeking support from professionals if necessary, to create a solid foundation for sustainable progress.
If you’ve been struggling, you’re now one step ahead since recognizing and acknowledging these factors is the first step towards overcoming inconsistency!
It's okay to stumble and fall; what matters is how we pick ourselves up and keep moving forward. By prioritizing consistency, setting realistic expectations, and addressing underlying issues, we can turn the roller coaster ride into a steady climb towards our goals.
Remember, progress may be slow and nonlinear, but every step in the right direction brings us closer to success. So buckle up, embrace the journey, and take it brick by brick!
If you liked this read, check out this one about moving more and sitting less!
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