Keeping Focus

When I decided to stop working out every day, I had one big fear.  The fear is actually the reason I worked out every day to begin with.  The fear is this – if I stop working out every day I might stop being consistent.  When I worked out every day, I had the frame of mind that I “had” to work out and then I found a way to make it happen no matter what else was happening in my life.  If I stopped the streak, then I might not “have” to work out, and exercise could get crowded out by whatever else is going on in my life.

Well, I ended my streak last week, and so far I have not worked out three days this week.  In fact, I have not worked out more days than I have worked out.  I have some great reasons – work projects, valentines day, etc.  I also have great excuses – I have been consumed by the motorcycle bug and have chosen to ride my motorcycle a couple of days when I could have worked out (great exercise for my motorcycle, not so much for me).

So what to do about it?  The first thing is always to admit you have a problem.  This is my problem.  I have never had a period in my life where I wasn’t doing something physical (basketball, weightlifting, cycling, etc).  But I have also always been sporadic and inconsistent as well.  This is the habit I need to change.

My wife Lisa took up serious running about 13 years ago.  I asked her last night – in the 13 years she’s been running, what’s the longest period of time she went without doing any exercise.  Her answer . . . MAYBE one week.  I bet over the last 13 years she has averaged at least 5 days a week, and probably closer to 6.

 If I want to really lose weight; if I want to really lower my blood pressure and get off meds; then I have to have the attitude that working out is non-negotiable.   And this month is the danger zone.   Neil was commenting that the gym was crowded and he was looking forward to March – when people start to fade on their commitment.  I don’t want to be that statistic.  I am going to fight for my health and fitness.

My commitment – I will take Friday’s off and no other day.   Here’s to supporting me on that journey.