Sometimes we can find a groove in our training, during this time we’re
motivated to workout every day, we’re feeling optimal and hitting our
fitness goals – what could be better! – And then everything comes to a
screeching halt. Any number of unforeseen events can come along and pull
you away from your groove: Getting an illness, an injury, a family
emergency, personal crisis, prepping for a special event, moving, your
favorite running route getting blocked off, or a relaxing holiday that
becomes extra relaxing.
When this happens, best advice I can give - Go easy on yourself. Many
people tend to revert to berating themselves when they lose the path.
Beating yourself up is not going to get you any more motivated. There’s
nothing more taxing that feeling guilty and ashamed. Instead, you can
choose to embrace it and find a way through it.
Recently, I acquired an illness that disrupted my whole system. My
favorite physical activities - yoga, running, & fitness were inaccessible to
me for a few weeks, after having been in a comfortable groove
for some time. I had a choice: I could wallow and think wistfully about
the good old days, or… I could find a way through this. In choosing the
latter, I was faced with the task of being willing to try new forms of
movement that wouldn’t compromise my injury or cause me pain. It was an
opportunity for growth, in that I practiced willingness, adaptability and stretched out of my comfort zone.
Here are some lessons I benefited from (and teach my clients):
1. Reduce your attachment to one way of doing things.
Although you may be really connected to the routines you have, or one
type of movement; it is really essential to apply a key life skill here:
the ability to adapt. Shake things up every once in a while by
squeezing in a different workout.
2. Create a backup fitness plan.
Think of a fitness back-up plan as an insurance policy: Our fitness
activities keep us in top form (emotionally and mentally as well) for handling
life’s events and challenges. If you relied solely on one activity, then
everything would fall apart if that gets disrupted in any way. If your body is
used to output, you may risk becoming a little depressed when it stops
movement; so be sure to have a small list of alternative ways you can get
movement in, and most importantly, practice these every once in a while.
Schedule in one “Plan B” workout every 2 weeks, even if it’s not your favorite.
It’s kind of like a ‘fire drill’ practice: its good to be prepared for anything.
3. Be willing to get creative within your limitations.
Even though you may have found what works for you, if you are
disrupted or limited somehow, then it’s time to think outside the box.
There are many, many opportunities for physical movement, or high-impact
mini-workouts for those who face time constraints. For instance, ask fit friends about their workout preferences. Also, consider
asking a personal trainer to help you discover new exercises or activities - they are great resources for bringing in new forms of physical movement into your life. Don;t be afraid to ask me lol :)
4. Tolerate a learning curve for your new forms of movement.
If indeed you have said yes to an exercise back up plan, be aware
that you may take some time getting used to it. All mastery requires a
stage of awkwardness. Also, keep your ego in check. It may convince you
that because this new movement is awkward or difficult, that it’s not
worth pursuing. Ignore it and keep on moving.
"I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.” - Bruce Lee
All throughout life we will be faced with distractions, disruptions
and unforeseen events. Nothing can ever stay comfortably predictable.
The facts: committing to physical wellness involves much more than
finding a routine you like and sticking with it. The ability to adapt with the punches, combined
with determination, topped with a consistent readiness to step out of
your comfort zone -if need be- are traits of individuals who live active lifestyles. Hope you found this interesting and helpful :)
