In many cases people will procrastinate for months and sometimes never even get started. Some of the most common excuses include lack of time, not knowing where to start, thinking it will hurt too much, and/or waiting to start after a particular planned event such as a vacation.  

I thought it would be interesting to find out why people use these excuses to block their success. I found that they were using these excuses to avoid their fears. Fear of finding out what kind of shape they are really in, the fear of change, and the fear of failing just to name a few. These negative thoughts gave them feelings of mental pain or discomfort. By never getting started they were able to avoid these feelings and relieve the stress associated with starting an exercise program.  

So how does one overcome these fears and succeed at reaching their fitness goals? In my many years of experience, I have found that one must first make a true commitment to themselves. Next, I recommend coming up with a plan of action. Your plan of action should includes the number of days each week you are going to workout, the time of day your going to workout, and what type of workout you will be performing. Write it down in your day planner or post it where you can see it so it is scheduled. By scheduling something it will become real. Do not try to keep a schedule in your head. The last part of your plan of action is the most important part. "Do something today!" Do something physical. Go for a walk, start your first workout, etc. Put your plan into motion. Go forward!  

It is important that you continue to follow your plan of action as well as have a positive mind set each and everyday. Surround yourself with positive reinforcement.

Ask for support from your friends and family. Let them know how important this goal is to you.  

Succeeding or not succeeding is a game of momentum. If you are able to build momentum in a positive direction towards success your odds of succeeding will dramatically increase. Unfortunately the same holds true for negative momentum. A negative attitude or negative surroundings will build negative momentum and often result in a negative outcome or even failure. Dr. Norman Vincent Peele once said, "If you speak in negative terms you will achieve negative results, and speak in positive terms you achieve positive results."  

In review, when starting an exercise program we must focus on the mind as well as the body. We must conquer our fears, come up with a plan of action, ask our pears for their support and surround ourselves with positive reinforcement. A positive mind set along with good planning is the foundation of a successful exercise program. Always remember that you will move forward in the direction that you face.   

For additional information about this article e-mail (Craig LePage) at craig@ncprecisionfitness.com or log on to www.lakenormanfitness.com 

Craig LePage, CSCS, NASM-CPT

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Craig is a well-known Fitness Pro in the Charlotte, NC area and is the Director of Precision Fitness Mooresville. He has been helping people reach their fitness and wellness goals for more than 12 years.  His credentials include a BS Degree from the University of Bridgeport Conn., CSCS credentials from the NSCA and a Personal Training Certification from the NASM. Craig is a frequent guest on a Charlotte area radio show that focus' on health and wellness. He has recently co-authoring a golf specific exercise book (Play Better, Longer - Golf).