Starting a fitness program is easy. However, sticking with one is another story. Here are a few steps you can take that will get you off to a good start. Just like anything else you do, you will want to know why you are doing what you do and who you are doing it for. Before you pick up that first weight or run your first mile you will want to have your head screwed on straight. Here is how to do that:
1) Determine which stage of change you are in. Many of us are in various stages of making a change. Are you in the:
a) Thinking about making a change stage?
b) Taking action on making a change in your behavior?
c) Maintaining a changed behavior that requires continued support?
2) If you are in the thinking stage then write down why you want to make a change, who you are making the change for, and how you will feel once this change occurs. Making a change for yourself is always good but many times we make changes for our kids which can be a powerful motivator. We may also want to become more attractive to a spouse or significant other. Whatever your reason, it must have value to you. If it is because someone else is MAKING you change and you really don't agree then that won't last. So sit down and objectively look at why you want to make this change. The more you can link this change to an emotion the better, whether it be anger, revenge, love, whatever, as long as it stirs things up in you and gets you out of bed in the morning to attack your day and make sustained and noticeable change.
3) If you are in the "action" phase of change and have a good powerful emotional change agent identified then you are ready to develop your plan of attack. This must include setting a 3-month goal that will get you to your annual or dream goal that has already been emotionally loaded. The 3-month goal is very important and what your weekly goals will be geared towards. Setting weekly goals that move you towards your 3-month goal will now set the ball rolling.
There you have it. It is as easy as 1,2, and 3. Once you set your mind up for success the training is easy and quite enjoyable.
Pete Simon
Certified Wellness Coach (http://Wellcoaches.com)
USAT Level I Coach
USA Cycling Level 3 Coach
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