I dare to take up exercising (again) by facing up to my fears!
Today, I confront my limiting thoughts: the obstacles that prevent me from beginning to exercise, and I listen to the voice of my inner coach: the one that tells me that I am capable of doing it. I express my fears without feeling guilty, and then I let the strength within me take over! I put into practice two notions that I am just beginning to discover: positive thinking and visualisation!
Getting back into exercise: A guide
It’s normal to be a little anxious before a change. In fact, it’s a good sign: my body is getting ready for action! To overcome this stage, I face my fears in 4 steps:
- I express my fears without taboos.
- After the emotion, I listen to my inner coach: deep down, I know that I will manage to overcome my apprehension and find solutions.
- I say a positive phrase, the magic formula that helps me push my limits!
- Phew, it’s over: I just have to erase my old limiting pattern by replacing it with a motivating one. I dare to dream about who I want to become!
I get ready in front of my mirror (if I have a Vue, that’s even better) and go for it!
Focus on method and organisation: I simplify and plan
My limiting thoughts :
- I am afraid of hurting myself, I don’t know what movements to make…
- I don’t have time to take care of myself. I should be concentrating on my work, my family, my house…
- I can’t go to the gym. It’s too far away…
- I listen to my inner coach: I can work out independently. I don’t need much space to set up a gym in my home. I train at my own pace without letting it interfere with my family life or my professional constraints. By opting for short, guided sessions at my level, I follow a progressive programme.
- My positive thoughts: I am in control of my time and listen to my body.
- My visualisation exercise: this is MY time. I have locked this time in my diary. I put on my trainers, drink a glass of water and unroll my fitness mat. I’ve already watched a video of the moves I’m going to make. I warm-up, do my exercises and then stretch. I am proud of myself. I enjoy the post-exercise euphoria before getting on with my day.
Focus on mental strength and motivation: I keep my goals in mind
- My limiting thoughts:
- I’m afraid I’ll be tired, I’ll have aches and pains, I won’t last…
- It’s always the same thing. I train for a fortnight, and then I lose motivation…
- Working out is not for me. I’ve never liked it.
- I listen to my inner coach: I focus on why I decided to work out and remember that my body will get used to the effort. My aches and pains just tell me that my muscles are growing.
- My positive thought: every move I make brings me closer to my goal!
- My visualisation exercise: I visualise myself in shape. I turn on my treadmill, and stride by stride, I strive for my victory of the day. I take a few minutes to note my performance and see that I’m progressing in the right direction. I take one last look at my motivational image: here’s to me in my favourite jeans; at this rate, I’ll be wearing them again in two months!
Focus on self-esteem: I gain confidence and take action
- My limiting thoughts:
- I’m past the age at which I can work out.
- I’m young; I’ll have time to worry about my health later.
- I am afraid of how other people will see me. I am a beginner.
- I’m afraid of change. What will my family and friends have to say?
- I listen to my inner coach: I exercise for myself according to my abilities. I don’t care when I start or how old I am. I don’t have to prove anything to anyone, and I can do something for my health. If the gym is not my thing, I exercise at home.
- My positive thoughts: my body is precious. I know what to do to preserve it, and I start now.
- My visualisation exercise: I close my eyes and concentrate on my breathing and heartbeat. Whatever my age, I want to stay fit. I keep the fighting spirit inside me. My heart will continue to beat strongly for a long time. I do everything to keep it that way!
I’ve done it! I have no reason not to start exercising now! If a new fear appears, I now know how to overcome it!
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