I love being healthy and as active as possible. Transitioning from high school to college, I lost about 20 pounds. To do that, I had to make some life-changing decisions. Here are ways you are holding yourself back from achieving your fitness results:
1. Only sticking to one workout routine
When I first started working out, I only did machines. I wasn't seeing amazing results and that's when I decided to switch it up. Doing a mix of cardio, lifting, and machines will help you achieve your goals.
2. Even though having a mix of exercises helps, what is your ultimate goal?
Do you want to be lean, muscular, get better at cardio, or achieve the perfect yoga pose? Depending on your goals and body type, you might have to focus more on one thing rather the other. When I was lifting regularly, my muscles were huge. I could deadlift 200 pounds and be working on getting that even higher. Now, I focus on yoga and instead of lifting 200 pounds, I can hold a headstand for a minute.
3. Supplements
Supplements like pre-workout, protein, creatine, etc. can help you form muscle and increase endurance. You absolutely do not need supplements, but many active people take them to help achieve goals. I used to take them, but once I stopped lifting, I really didn't need to.
4. Food, food, food
What are you putting into your body? You know that saying, "Abs are built in the kitchen?" Well, it is 100% true. Having a well-rounded diet is essential for any type of exercising you do. I cut out a lot of unhealthy foods when I started getting into fitness. It helps you during your workout and even during recovery.
5. The place you workout
Where you work out can really be a mental barrier for your fitness goals. For some people going to the gym can be intimidating and for others working out at home is not motivating enough. Find what works for you.
6. Are you consistent?
You can't work out for two hours once a week and expect amazing results. Working out 3 - 4 times a week is an ideal place to start to achieve any fitness results.
7. You're not getting enough sleep
Getting enough sleep is so important, especially if you are active. Not getting enough sleep can cause weight gain, stress, and lessen your workout intensity.
8. You're not tracking your progress
Take pictures, download an app, or journal. Tracking your progress is great for achieving fitness goals. I take pictures and videos of my lifting form, yoga poses, and my body. Looking at where I was two years ago versus today motivates me when I'm having a rough time. If a diet is your fitness goal, get a food tracker app to track your food intake.
9. You are not apart of a community with similar goals
I am apart of yoga groups on Reddit, Facebook, and follow inspirational yogis on Instagram. Talking to people with the same goals as you can be motivating and you may learn new techniques.
10. Rest days
Don't work out on your designated rest days! Your body needs the rest. You do not need to work out every single day of the week.
11. Not performing exercises correctly
If you don't know how to properly do exercises, you may have trouble achieving your goals. Watching videos, getting a trainer, or asking people at the gym for advice can help you with technique.
12. You don't have a plan
Planning out your workouts help you stay on track. Work out legs one day and arms another. Keep a list of exercises you want to do for the day along with how many sets and reps. If you don't know where to start, there are many apps that help you form a workout plan!
13. Don't forget to reward yourself
Living a healthy lifestyle doesn't mean you can't reward yourself. After a week of eating clean and working out, reward yourself with your favorite dessert. This will help you stay motivated!
