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When most people think about fitness progress, their minds often jump to visual changes - maybe a slimmer waistline, rippling muscles, or a number on the scale. But in an industry and society where the emphasis on physical appearance often takes center stage, it's important to remember that true progress goes far beyond aesthetics.
Achieving your fitness goals might involve changes in your body's appearance, but focusing solely on looks can be demotivating and counterproductive. I believe fitness isn't about how you look - it's about your overall health, performance and, most importantly, how you feel!
So F**K the mirror, and let's talk about what really matters when it comes to your fitness:
1. Improved Movement Quality
One of the most significant indicators of progress in your fitness journey is an improvement in movement quality. This means moving with more ease, control, and fluidity during your workouts. As you become stronger and more flexible, your movements will become more efficient, reducing the risk of injury and allowing you to continue to progress.
Take the time to assess how you move during your workouts. Can you perform exercises with better range of motion? Are you able to maintain proper posture throughout your routines? If the answer is yes, you're making progress, regardless of how you look on the outside.
2. Increased Strength
Strength gains are a tangible sign of progress that can boost your confidence and overall sense of achievement - and make you feel like total badass! When you can lift more weight or perform more reps with a given weight, it's a clear indication that your body is adapting and becoming stronger. Strength improvements translate to functional benefits in your daily life, making tasks like carrying groceries, moving furniture, or playing with your children more manageable.
Keep track of your lifts and celebrate each milestone. Whether it's an extra plate on the barbell or an additional rep, these improvements are a testament to your dedication and hard work.
3. Enhanced Capability Outside the Gym
Fitness is not just about what you can do in the gym- it's also about how your newfound strength and stamina improve your daily life. Notice how you can climb stairs without getting winded, carry heavy bags with ease, or keep up with your friends during outdoor activities. These improvements in your everyday capabilities are strong indicators of progress that have nothing to do with your appearance.
4. Improved Mood
Exercise has a profound impact on your mental health, and a noticeable improvement in your mood is an encouraging sign of progress. Regular physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which can reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Additionally, the sense of accomplishment that comes with achieving fitness goals can boost your overall sense of well-being.
Pay attention to how you feel before and after your workouts. Do you notice a positive shift in your mood and mindset? It's amazing how quickly you can go from hating your coach at the start of your workout, to loving them by the end, isn't it? :P
5. Increased Confidence
As you work towards your fitness goals and experience improvements in movement, strength, and overall well-being, your confidence is likely to soar. When you make a commitment to show up for yourself 1, 2, 3 or more days a week - and actually stick to it - that can have a really powerful effect on your psyche. Confidence goes beyond physical appearance and plays a huge role in how you approach challenges in all aspects of your life.
Try to notice those moments when you feel more self-assured, whether it's when speaking in public, tackling a difficult task, or pursuing a new opportunity. Recognize that your progress in the gym is likely a big part of that extra confidence you're feeling, proving that fitness is about SOOOO much more than aesthetics.
The next time you're having a tough day and being really hard on yourself, take a step back - and away from the mirror - and remind yourself of all these amazing changes that are happening beneath the surface, where it really counts. And it's all happening because you choose to show up for yourself and take care of your body.
Coach Dee
@deefitdot
coachdeefitdot@gmail.com
coachdeefit.com
*This site is a fitness and personal training blog for information purposes only and shouldn’t be seen as health, nutritional, or medical advice. This site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or health advice, diagnosis or treatment. Any information you use from this site is at your own risk. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you read on this site.