Finding reasons to work out that have nothing to do with looks will ultimately lead to the change we are all seeking when we start exercising. I won’t pretend like how you look isn’t a motivator to work out, it definitely is. It’s usually the first motivator for women, but it’s just not enough. There, I said it. If it was, way more people would be pursuing fitness consistently.
When I first started this whole fitness thing (make sure to read about that here!) I was a treat yo’ self, couch potato. All I wanted was to lose a little weight and gain some booty along the way. But I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, the actual change happened when my goal shifted from losing weight to following through on a goal and keeping a promise to myself. That’s where the consistency –and ultimately the physical progress, came from.
When I started, I had no idea of all of the other amazing reasons to workout besides not hating the way I looked. And now that I’ve made quite a bit of physical progress, those reasons are the things that keep me coming back day in and day out. Physical progress takes consistency over a period of time and that’s why it’s not a strong enough motivator. But if you can embrace the other reasons to work out while you’re working towards the physical progress, the journey will be a lot easier and more enjoyable.
1. Feeling Strong
Don’t underestimate the pure bliss of feeling like a badass. My preferred form of exercise is weightlifting. You have to find something that you enjoy –or at the very least, you don’t hate. Don’t let fear or anxiety keep you from lifting. Truthfully, I think everyone enjoys it once they get comfortable. Do not do the treadmill for an hour and hate every second of it because you’re nervous to try something new. Whether it’s lifting heavier weights or shortening your time (if cardio is your jam), crushing a workout is one of the best feelings. Feeling physically stronger will absolutely make you feel mentally stronger.
2. Sense of Accomplishment
This is probably #1 on my personal list of reasons to work out that have nothing to do with looks. There are few better things than feeling accomplished, at least in my world anyway. The feeling you get when you finish a work out, ESPECIALLY when you really didn’t want to go, is unmatched. Remember, you never regret a work out.
3. Relieve Stress/Endorphins
Before I started working out consistently, I hated when people said anything about endorphins. Endorphins my ass –I had never experienced actually enjoying the gym. I was sure they were wrong… Oops. It is so real, y’all. Putting headphones in and focusing in on your work out allows you to shut out the outside world. For however long you work out for, you can shut off your brain from work, kids, to-do lists, etc. It’s a truly underrated benefit.
4. Sleep
You sleep better. I noticed this the most when I first started lifting consistently. Now it’s become more standard. Physically exerting energy in a work out helps you fall asleep faster and sleep better throughout the night. I think we could all use more of that.
5. Other Aspects of Life Benefit
Fitness and nutrition were the first steps to this personal development journey I now find myself on. When you show up for your health consistently, you feel empowered for achieving such a difficult goal. For most of us, a fit lifestyle is something we’ve been wanting for awhile. Once you achieve it, you don’t want to stop. All of a sudden you start reaching for more in other areas too. I started setting goals for an exceptional relationship with Matt. Personal goals like becoming more patient. Working harder towards financial goals and pursuing a passion.
6. Be a Role Model
Yes, I am talking about the tiny humans. If you don’t want kids, go ahead and keep scrolling. If you don’t have any tiny humans right now but want them eventually… me too, so stick with me. It’s really hard to get started with anything new as an adult, right? Have you ever wished you had just always been active and therefore wouldn’t have to “get started” now, as a grown up? I know I did. Imagine you set your kids up now so they never have to feel like you do, overwhelmed with even starting. If they watch you make your health a priority, they won’t know any different than making their own health a priority too.
In my case, I want this lifestyle so habitual that it is down pat before the tiny humans are even a a real consideration. I am hoping that my kids will never know a world where their parents didn’t make their health a priority. They won’t worry for my health (god willing) when they’re in their teens and 20’s because I made working out/nutrition a part of my life.
Related posts: 13 Tips If You’re Feeling Discouraged By The Scale; 4 Small Changes To Become A Healthier You
I know it’s not easy y’all.
I am still a work in progress. But let me let you off the hook… we always are! Fitness is a lifestyle, not a means to an end. When you start reaping the benefits of feeling good, physical progress comes next. These are just 6 of my reasons and I know there are tons more. If you found reasons to work out that help you show up every day, leave me a comment and let me know! I am always interested in what inspires people to take the leap and what keeps them coming back.
-The Relatable Red
