How To Choose Consistency Over Perfection With Fitness
April’s unpredictable weather keeps us guessing, but one thing that has remained constant is the commitment to our health. If you are following along on our social media channels, AIRE Wellness has been participating in an April Movement Challenge. The purpose of this challenge is to incorporate movement that feels best for you into your daily routine.
So, what does this look like? Movement can be going for a long walk outside, strength training in the gym, sweating it out in a cycling class, doing a quick 30-minute online workout at home, or meeting your friend for pilates. The goal of this challenge is to make daily movement attainable and enjoyable.
Fitness can become a challenge when we set unrealistic goals or have high standards for ourselves, leading to negative self-talk or burnout. But, to overcome this strive for perfectionism, we must focus on consistency. With a simple mindset shift, this can lead to long-term success and sustainability.
Here are some tips on how to prioritize consistency in order to truly enjoy your fitness journey:
Set Realistic Goals: If you are not currently active, start small. Go for a walk in your neighborhood and listen to a podcast. More advanced? Try a new exercise at the gym or go that extra mile in your run. We all start somewhere, but the critical part is getting your body moving regularly in a way that works best for you.
Focus on Healthy Habits: Building consistent habits into your routine will provide the foundation for a sustainable fitness routine. In addition to regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, getting quality sleep, and utilizing stress management tools like meditation or breathwork will not only help you perform better in your workouts but also enhance your overall lifestyle.
Stay Flexible: If you skip a day, allow yourself that rest. Recovery is as important as the exercise itself. Instead of viewing this as a setback, embrace imperfection and focus on growth. Be willing to adapt and use this as fuel for your next workout.
Find a Workout Partner: Having encouraging people in your life can help you remain driven toward your goals. This support can challenge you or celebrate your progress, providing that uplifting spirit when you need it.
Practice Self-Compassion: Remember to be kind to yourself throughout this journey. Enjoy the process, celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and be patient during those challenging times. By living in the present and practicing gratitude, we can appreciate our accomplishments and the lessons learned.
Prioritizing consistency feels like…waking up excited to move your body, showing compassion to yourself, being okay with rest days, building an encouraging community, and constantly working on becoming the best versions of ourselves. So, instead of striving for perfection, consistently prioritizing your health will cultivate sustainable habits, make gradual progress, and ultimately achieve your long-term fitness and wellness goals.
