5 Tricks to Finding the Fitness Plan for You By Bonnie Pfiester
Many people made a promise this New Year to get in shape. However, it’s February and plenty of people still haven’t decided what to do about reaching their goal. Procrastination is common when it comes to getting fit, but the next popular mistake is making the wrong decision.
Year after year, people throw money away on fitness products and gym memberships. Why? People often make impulse decisions based on what they think they want instead what they actually need.
For instance, I would love to have abs in 6 minutes, but I know I need to invest more time than six minutes a day to reach my goals. I also would love a great deal, but I realize even the best deal isn’t that great of a deal at all if it’s not right for me. The key to success is being honest with your self. Here are 5 different types of people and solutions to meet their needs.
1. Self-Motivated, Self-Disciplined – If you are the type of person who doesn’t need a push and will exercise on your own, you’ll be successful working out at a gym or at home. If you decide to purchase equipment, invest in a quality product. If it’s cheap and rickety, even the most disciplined person won’t use it.
2. Formally Fit and Disciplined – You know what to do - your issue is just actually doing it. Instead of investing big bucks in a home gym, invest in a short-term regimented program like personal training or boot camp. You need a kick-start with enough accountability to help you break the lazy cycle.
3. Never Fit and Inexperienced – Buying a membership, workout DVD, or fitness equipment is rarely enough for someone who’s never worked out before. You’ll get more education and direction in group exercise or personal training. The results you get will give you the motivation to stick with it even after your initial program is over.
4. Insecure and Afraid – If you’ve never been in a gym or it’s been a while since you last worked out, you need a comfortable environment. Equipment, amenities and even convenience won’t matter near as much as finding a place you feel safe. This is when a trial membership comes in handy. Ask a friend to join you or tag along with some friends. Ironically, you are the type of person who needs the support found in a gym more than anyone else and it’s the one place you’ll be tempted to avoid.
5. Bored and Discouraged – If you used to enjoy working out but now seem to dread it, you need a change. Some people would rather stay with what they know, even if they are unhappy, than try something new. If you’re already a member of a gym, it’s likely that your facility offers plenty of options for you to try without having to change gyms – but you have to be willing to try them. Often times, people don’t get results because they don’t ask the staff for help. If no one knows you are bored or discouraged, no one can help you. Communication is essential – and best yet, it’s free!
About Bonnie Lee Pfiester
Health Club Owner, Wife to TV Fitness Trainer and Host, Health & Beauty Columnist, Keynote Speaker, Model, Musician, Artist, Automotive/Motorcycle Enthusiast and Community Leader.