Fitness Mind Games: How to Play. And Win.

Imagine this: You've trained hard for months. You're feeling Bullet-Proof. 

 

Watch out, World!

You've entered a big race. Or you've finally bought that sexy swimsuit that you're determined to wear this time. In public. Without a coverup.

And then--

Like a Tonya Harding to the knees, your subconscious knocks you down. You get careless, lose focus. Perhaps you injure yourself. And you imagine all your hard-won achievements slipping away...

Some days you might catch yourself asking:

Nancy Kerrigan, post Tonya Harding

Mind Games. They sure can get to you. But how do you stop them?

We've all faced these foes at one time or another, right? Our addictions, bad habits, fears. These thoughts, if we aren't careful, can lead to self-doubt, self-pity, and worst of all, defeatism.

Well, I'm here to say: You can fight back. And win.

How do I know? Because I did.

I coulda been a contender (wait, I still can!)

Recently, I was feeling on top of the world. Twirling like an Olympian in a rhinestone skating skirt, I was making great progress. And fast. What could go wrong...?

Well... perhaps I got a little too sure of myself. I lost my focus. I injured myself.

But the worst part? Something changed after the injury-- in an oh-so-subtle way.

My mindset.

I caught myself worrying about more injuries. I was angry at myself, too, for losing momentum.

Then I realized -- this isn't the way I'm meant to live.

I had to break free of these thoughts.

My trainer, Troy and me

I forced myself to workout, even when I had no energy. My personal trainer (Troy from T-Squared Personal Training), challenged me to get right back "on form" (even when I fought him on it). 

I kept working out like he insisted, and soon, I was back on form. (That's the sign of a great trainer -- one who motivates when you're at your lowest.)

And guess what? We both won.

Taking flight

But the power of mind-body connection isn't just my idea.

Clinical studies suggest that parts of the brain (cortex and medial temporal cortex) improve in people who exercise versus people who don’t.

"Engaging in a program of regular exercise of moderate intensity over six months or so is associated with an increase in selected brain tissue volume," says Dr. Scott McGinnis, a neurologist at Brigham and Women's Hospital and instructor at Harvard Medical School.

So... where does this all put you? Right back on track!

Because even if you're recovering from an injury, illness or just swamped with work, you can take steps to improve your mind-body connection. Try deep-breathing exercises, dance to your favourite song, play a game of Frisbee...whatever gets you moving.

(And try not to fall prey to any other bad habits.)

Not-so-comforting-food

Sugars and starches create health issues like diabetes, mood swings and insomnia. In contrast, exercise soothes and strengthens the mind and body.

How much activity does one need to benefit? For beginners looking for a quick brain-boost, try 30 minutes a few times a week. But if you want to get really fit, set your sights for one hour. You'll be amazed at the results (in both body and mind).

Sound daunting? Try a workout buddy!

My Fitness Buddy/client and me

I know -- that's not as easy as it sounds.

Sometimes just when you're super-motivated to workout, your workout buddy cancels. Or someone persuades you to Netflix and chill. So many temptations out there, am I right? That's why I've decided to add this service...

Aside from life and fitness coaching, I will now be available as a Fitness Buddy!

Now you'll have someone to work out with according to your schedule.

As a Fitness Buddy, I can personally help you:

• Plan your fitness and diet goals.
• Keep you focused and positive during workouts.
• Keep you on track and accountable.
• Chart and encourage your progress.
• Celebrate your victories with you!

Remember: Our minds have the tools to create positive thoughts, too.

Contact me today: Let's banish negativity and unleash the winner inside of you.