So, I’ve always considered myself a fitness fanatic. But that doesn’t mean I’ve always been super fit. Like everyone, I’ve definitely had my ups and downs. I’ve gone from hyper focused on one type of workout (running, HIIT, weight lifting, Crossfit, you name it, I’ve done it), to completely out of shape, to finding a healthy balance between fitness, self care, and some well-deserved indulgences.
What I’ve come to realize is that you need to truly, as I like to think of it, “find your groove.” That means building a lifestyle for yourself that feels maintainable, that is fun, and is flexible. For me, this has meant finding healthy stress management tools such as fun workouts rather than downing half a bottle of wine after work because, simply, it makes me feel better, inside and out.
As a result, I’ve lost about 15 pounds, I fit better in my clothes, and just feel better about myself. Here are my tips for “finding your groove:”
Here are my tips:
Tip #1 – Variety is the spice of life
I can’t say enough how valuable it is to mix up your routine, especially when it comes to exercise! Join a new gym, try different exercise classes, go on a hike or run with a friend or your dog. Doing a variety of activities will keep the energy and fun factor high. If you’re constantly trying new types of workouts, you’ll never get bored and your body will also thank you. Plus, you’ll likely find yourself doing something you’ve never tried before and happen to just fall in love with.
As far as healthy eating goes, variety goes a long way as well. Keep it colorful with lots of nutritious veggies and plenty of high-quality protein. Plus, colorful food is pleasing to the eye and will make eating a lot more enjoyable and satisfying.
Tip #2 – The more the merrier
Make workouts and healthy eating a social thing. Invite your friends or family members to join you for a workout or to help you create and enjoy a new healthy recipe. Not only will you fill your social cup, but you’ll have someone else there for accountability. You might even end up being the catalyst of motivation that someone else needed, too! Read more here about why working out with others is so beneficial.
Tip #3 – Make it competitive
I don’t mean in the sense of competing with others, unless that floats your boat, but in the sense of competing with yourself. Track your workouts, track your meals, watch how far you can go. This has been one of the most motivating factors for me when trying to find my fitness groove. I like using a fitness watch to track workouts, steps, etc. and find it incredibly motivating. I don’t want to let myself down!
Meal trackers can also be super helpful for getting an idea of how much you typically eat and setting goals for your nutrition (I use MyFitnessPal off and on when I need the extra motivation and focus). Additionally, apps such as Strava or MapMyWorkout can help you keep track of your workouts, connect with others, and find motivation to keep moving.
Setting a goal for yourself like competing in a 5K or biking a certain number of miles per month can also be a really great way to keep yourself on track.
Tip #4 – Be kind to yourself
Practice positive self talk. Give yourself grace when you’ve had a hard day and don’t get your workout in or you over-indulge a little one night. Just move on and get back on track the next day. We are only human and we need to practice self love and take care of ourselves in whatever way feels right. Read more about positive self talk here.
Let me know what you think about these tips. Subscribe to my page for more health and wellness-related posts and recipes!