Embarking on a fitness journey is often seen as a daunting task, especially amidst a busy schedule. But the ideal time to start a fitness program is precisely when you’re busy. It explores the value of small steps, the importance of perseverance, the role of discipline, and the power of scheduling in maintaining a fitness regimen.
The principles discussed here extend beyond physical health, offering insights applicable to various aspects of life.
Always a Right Time to Start
Starting a fitness program can seem overwhelming, especially when you’re already juggling a busy schedule. Contrary to popular belief, the best time to start a fitness program is not when you have an abundance of free time. Instead, it’s when you’re busy. There’s no hard and fast rule as to when is best, but the most effective training program is one you’re going to stick to.
The logic behind this is simple yet profound. If you learn to incorporate fitness into your schedule when you’re already occupied, you’re more likely to stick with it in the long run. This is because you’ve learned to prioritize it, even when times are tough.
So, if you can incorporate fitness into your busy schedule and stick to it, you’re more likely to maintain it in the long run.
The Importance of Forgiveness
One of the most crucial aspects of maintaining a fitness program is understanding that missing a day doesn’t equate to failure. It merely means you missed a day. The key is to forgive yourself and make it to your next workout. If you find yourself missing workouts frequently, it’s time to reassess your schedule and make necessary adjustments. Remember, the goal is not to give up on fitness but to make it fit into your life.
According to Psychology Today ¹, studies show improved functioning in the cardiovascular and nervous systems for those who practiced forgiveness. Moreover, those who were more forgiving were less likely to suffer from a wide range of illnesses.
So, forgiving yourself for missing a workout and making it to your next one can have a positive impact on both your physical and mental health.
Every Little Bit Counts
When it comes to fitness, every little bit truly counts. Starting a fitness program doesn’t mean you have to go all in from day one. Even a 15-minute workout twice a week can bring you closer to your fitness goals. The idea is to avoid the detrimental mindset of considering partial achievement as a failure. Instead, understand that doing anything is better than doing nothing.
Small steps can add up to big results. According to a study published in Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, as cited by Clear Concept, a group who exercised for 13 minutes per session, three times a week for two months showed similar strength improvements as those who exercised for 70 minutes per session.
This highlights the importance of starting small and gradually increasing your workout intensity and duration. Remember, even a 15-minute workout twice a week can bring you closer to your fitness goals.
Scheduling Active Time
A practical tip that has helped many is to schedule active time in their calendars. It could be anything from jogging, boxing, or even yard work. The point is to do something active for an hour or so. This approach helps to ensure that you have dedicated time for physical activity every day, making it a part of your routine rather than an afterthought.
A well-planned schedule reduces stress and improves efficiency.
Discipline Over Motivation
Fitness is more about discipline than motivation. There will be days when you don’t feel like going to the gym, but it’s important to push through. The satisfaction and sense of accomplishment after a workout often outweigh the initial reluctance.
Discipline is a crucial component of any fitness journey. It’s the driving force that keeps you going even when motivation wanes. Everything from the food you eat to the amount of exercise you do is dependent on how disciplined you are.
Exercise promotes a sense of control over the body that may translate to an improved sense of control over other aspects of life, which is a key defense against stress. So, while motivation might get you started, it’s the discipline that keeps you going.
Fitness Beyond Physical Health
The principles of starting and maintaining a fitness program can also apply to other areas of life. Fitness is not just about physical health. It has far-reaching benefits that extend beyond the physical realm. Regular exercise can make you feel happier, give you more energy, promote quality sleep, help fight depression, and even boost your brain health.
These benefits highlight the importance of fitness in promoting overall well-being. The principles of starting and maintaining a fitness program, such as prioritizing what’s important, making necessary adjustments, and understanding that every little bit counts, can also apply to other areas of life.
Starting a fitness journey is more than just a physical endeavor; it’s a commitment to overall well-being. It’s about starting when you’re busy, forgiving yourself when you falter, and appreciating the value of small steps. It involves scheduling active time and cultivating discipline over fleeting motivation.
The benefits of fitness extend beyond physical health, impacting various aspects of life. So, start today, and remember, every little bit counts.
Original Article Source: Reddit
Read Next:
Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
