Analyzing the failure of a wellness regimen is much like picking at the details of a failed relationship.  It’s always easier to blame someone else, isn’t it?  In either situation, it’s all too easy to make excuses.  Here are some of the most common reasons for failure… and how to avoid them.

1. Missing the big picture.  Every fitness regimen should include strength training, cardiovascular exercise, and diet.  Each has equal importance and must be included in any lifestyle change.  Focusing on one or two components and ignoring the rest may produce short-term results, but typically doesn’t lead to long-term lifestyle change.
2. Lack of support.  Lifestyle change sounds drastic and it is.  Incorporating fitness and wellness into your lifestyle usually means spending less time eating out and socializing, likely resulting in friends and family feeling neglected.  To avoid this, get their support prior to starting a new program.  You just might get them to join you!
3. Lack of accountability.  To ensure success, a coach can be a great asset to support you with lifestyle change.  A good coach will track your goals and progress along the way, help overcome obstacles, and reward achievements.  Consider soliciting help from a find a friend committed to a healthy lifestyle.  Ideally, hire a certified personal trainer to ensure accountability.
4. Overdoing it.  Often when starting a new fitness regimen, we go at it aggressively by working out everyday and following a diet that focuses on deprivation.  First, your body needs fuel, especially given the increase in physical activity.  Providing your body with a day of rest can be just as important as the days you’re active.  Your muscles need to recover from the stress you’ve placed on them, particularly if you’re weight training.  Avoid burnout by establishing a reasonable schedule consisting of 3-4 days of cardio, 2-3 days of strength training, and a well balanced diet.
5. “What works for someone else will work for me.”  Our bodies are different.   If the friend whose body you admire most eats what she wants and her fitness routine consists of two days of yoga, that’s great, but it’s probably not going to lead to the same results for you.  Know your body, analyze what has worked in the past, what’s working now, and do the things that have proven to be effective.

Regan Case is an ACE-Certified Personal Trainer with Studio One to One.  For more information, visit www.studio-onetoone.com or call (678)367-3619.

flag