Overcoming Fitness Obstacles: 3 Key Principles for a Healthier You
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BY admin
UPDATED: August 13, 2023
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If you’re anything like me, the journey towards being in shape and managing your weight can sometimes feel overwhelming.
It’s not just about getting fit, but also about conquering additional obstacles like health issues, time management, and summoning the courage and energy needed to stay on track. Even if you’ve been exercising for a while, new barriers always seem to arise. So, how can we put it all into perspective?
I recently had the chance to sit down with Tom Turner, executive liaison for the Spina Bifida Association, who provided some valuable insights. According to Tom, the key lies in gaining perspective. He believes that no mountain is too high to climb, and he certainly knows what he’s talking about. Paralyzed from the waist down since birth, he’s now 35 and trains three times a week. In fact, he told me that exercise has become an indispensable part of his life.
In our pursuit of the ultimate guide to overcoming fitness barriers, Tom and I came up with three fundamental principles that can help dismantle fears and break down intimidating obstacles when striving to reach your fitness goals. After all, if Tom can exercise regularly despite his challenges, shouldn’t that be encouragement enough for anyone to give it a shot?
#1: Move Into The Fear
Tom advises, “Train your mind to believe that no mountain is too high and no goal is too difficult to attain.” It’s all about confronting your fears head-on. Embrace and acknowledge them, and then move through them. Take a moment to understand what makes you uncomfortable. Are you afraid you’ll never regain your fitness level after letting yourself go? Do you have an injury that’s made you apprehensive about pushing your body? If you can tap into your creative visualization skills, you’ll be able to keep your fears in check. Envision yourself as the person you aspire to be. Remember that your body loves you and has the innate ability to heal itself. Your only job is to trust it and listen.
Ask yourself this question: What is your body saying to you?
#2: Trust Your Intuition
When it comes to overcoming obstacles and breaking through barriers, it’s crucial to listen to the subtle voice within you. While we often seek external validation and guidance, our truest wisdom resides within ourselves. This isn’t to say that the opinions of others hold no value, but ultimately, the decision-making power lies within us.
When faced with a challenge or obstacle, pay attention to your instincts. How do you feel? Often, it’s your intuition that propels you towards a new mindset and elevates your consciousness. Tom shared his experience, saying, “I wasn’t going to let the wheelchair stand in my way. I had to change my perspective.” He first had to understand his limitations and set boundaries for himself. He further explained that everyone has their own unique boundaries, regardless of whether they can walk or not. So, it’s crucial to identify your own limits.
Once you’ve defined your boundaries, Tom suggests pushing against them. “Reach as high as you can within the confines of what you can currently do,” he advises. Whether it’s increasing sets, repetitions, or building greater endurance, give yourself the necessary time to achieve your small goals. You’ll be surprised by how quickly those small steps can lead to significant accomplishments.
#3: Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night
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Trust your intuitions
But what about fear? I asked Tom if he ever feels afraid. After undergoing 19 operations in his life, he’s come to terms with fear. According to him, it all comes down to our primal fear of death. Once you realize that death is an inevitable part of the grand design,
it becomes liberating. You can let go of that fear and instead choose how you want to live. Tom emphasized, “I wouldn’t want to miss being part of tomorrow.” Having a positive attitude is key, and he firmly believes that life is all about your mindset. Despite the challenges he faces, he refuses to let fear overwhelm him.
So, what’s the takeaway here? Talking to Tom reminded me of the poignant words of Dylan Thomas in his poem, “Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night.” It resonates perfectly in this context. The bottom line is that allowing fear to consume us often prevents us from truly living. Tom reminds us to cultivate a positive attitude and to embrace life with enthusiasm. He could have allowed fear to bring him down, but he made a conscious choice not to. Instead, he decided to embrace life fully.
Now, think about the fears that may be hindering your progress. Today is the perfect day to face them head-on. In conclusion, there is life beyond the boundaries we create for ourselves.
Once you’ve confronted your fears and pushed your boundaries to the limit, what’s next? I asked Tom this very question. With a smile, he replied, “Find a new mountain to climb.” He believes it’s what makes life exciting. Tom acknowledges that there will be days when he needs to rest, especially when his braces need adjustment. It’s during those times of reflection that he sets new goals and aspirations for himself.
In my personal quest to live beyond my own boundaries, I’m lucky to have Tom as my role model (he’s also my brother!). We often turn to the media for inspiration, but the truth is, there are everyday people doing extraordinary things all around us. Look for these unsung heroes in your own life. Learn from them, appreciate their values, and set your sights on the goals that resonate with you. Embrace the journey, conquer those mountains, and set your intentions in motion. Enjoy the fulfilling and healthy process that lies ahead.
As I embark on my journey to transcend boundaries, I’ve chosen Tom as my role model. We frequently find inspiration in the media, but it’s crucial to recognize the “real” people accomplishing remarkable feats all around us. Angels can be found everywhere! Take the time to observe and learn from them. Choose someone you admire; someone whose values resonate with you. Set your goals, conquer your mountains, and live life with intention.