When beginning a fitness program, we often tend to go for the all-or-nothing approach. We jump in head first with both guns blazing, trying to be perfect from day one. This approach often leads to burnout, frustration, and injury. However, when approached in a consistent fashion that is customized to your specific needs, you will see amazing results and have loads of fun in the process. Here are 5 tips for fat loss and fitness success.
1. Build Your Foundation
This is the most important factor of all. Your future successes or failures all stem from the amount of attention and time you dedicate towards building your foundation. Muscle activation, core stabilization, breathing, tempo, form, selection, and execution of movements are all crucial factors to your fat loss and fitness success. The quality of exercise is as important as the quantity.
2. Be Yourself
Stop trying to keep up with the proverbial "Fitness Joneses". Whether you exercise in a commercial gym, with a partner, or in a group setting, do not try to keep up with others that are more advanced than you. Oftentimes I see others lifting more weights than us or using more advanced moves than we are capable of. In an attempt to keep up, we sacrifice form and risk injury in the process. Don’t let your ego get in the way. Always use perfect form, even if it means using a lighter weight.
3. Know Your Limitations
This principle goes hand in hand with the Be Yourself principle, but it cannot be overstated enough. We are not all physically the same. Some of us have physical limitations that prevent us from safely doing particular movements. Whether it’s age, previous injuries, or any number of situations, do not let your ego get in the way. There are progressions and regressions to every fitness movement. Be smart and maximize what you have, while working within your limitations.
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4. Step Up The Pace
There will come a time when you become an efficient fat burning machine. Movements that you once dreaded will seem effortless. You need to address this situation or you run the risk of boredom, burnout, and stagnation. Increasing focus, increasing weights (or resistance), and progressing to more complex movements will keep your progress ongoing and consistent.
5. Keep It Interesting
Make sure to mix up your workouts on a consistent basis. Doing so will keep your enthusiasm high and keep you coming back for more. Remember, you don’t have to be in love with every workout. Rather, you should focus on results and be proud of yourself for trekking down the path to health and happiness.
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Image: Richard foster
