There are no shortcuts to any place worth going.

Rant and Tip for October 4, 2011

Quote of the day:  

"There are no shortcuts to any place worth going." - Beverly Sills

So true isn’t it. How many times have we heard things that something is too good to be true, well that is what this quote seems to be about. There really is not short cut here folks. No magic pill. Just you me and a diet plan and a set of dumbbells.
I am often asked where I should start when it comes to working out. Well, making the decision to work out is the first step. After that the challenge you will face is changing your lifestyle. I know I talk about making a life style change all the time. Many of us have created bad habits over the years and changing these requires a committed effort to consciously recognize and alter some of these patterns. Ultimately you need to change both your internal beliefs and your external environment so you can be successful.
It takes time to develop new habits, so a positive, forgiving attitude is essential. You will not become an athlete overnight, but by slowly changing your internal thoughts and external situation, you will find a new lifestyle that encourages fitness.
First check with your doctor to make sure that you can safely exercise without restrictions. If you have restrictions be sure you adhere to them and don’t get hurt. Once you have the OK, surround yourself with supportive people and role models. Having a support system is crucial in starting a workout program. Accountability and motivation are very important to success. Ask your friends that are active or even someone you see at the gym how they stay motivated. This will help you learn some tricks to stay motivated yourself.
You well being and physical health always seems to be the last thing on someone’s agenda. We take the time to manage every other aspect of our lives and yet fail to manage our physical health. If you make your physical health the priority you will find you have the energy to take on all other areas in your life.

Have a great workout!

Tip: Commit for Thirty Days – Make a commitment to go every day (even just for 20 minutes) for one month. This will solidify the exercise habit. By making a commitment you also take pressure off yourself in the first weeks back of deciding whether to go.