After our series on detox, clean eating, mindfulness, fasting... we are now diving into a new topic: Sport & Motivation. This is a topic close to my heart. I work with all age groups, from 5-year-olds to my oldest personal training client, who is 72 years old.
It’s interesting to observe that everyone today, regardless of age or fitness level, needs motivation to get moving, especially if they don’t exercise regularly. Kids without role models, where families don’t prioritize physical activity, develop the same reluctance and "disinterest" in exercise as adults. Sometimes, it feels like the inner resistance is so strong that discomfort with oneself outweighs the desire for change, and people come up with perfect excuses not to exercise. The effort, the sweating, and the routine-building are big hurdles for many.
I hear many reasons why people can’t exercise, and I completely understand it because I had to overcome this myself. I come from a family where sports weren’t a priority, not even playground visits. But at 16, something clicked inside me, and I realized I needed to do something. I simply felt uncomfortable in my own body and skin. That’s when I first visited the gym. I started traditionally, with machines and a trainer’s guidance, but it was boring, and I forgot to count my repetitions, so I wasn’t having fun. That’s when I started making excuses not to go, but then I discovered fitness classes. Some were okay, but when I tried Cardio Kickboxing for the first time, I realized how much fun it was. It was addictive, and that class made exercise a regular part of my life—slowly, I must admit. It took some time to overcome the mental barriers. My self-doubt (self-limiting beliefs) kept telling me I wasn’t fit enough, that I had to keep up with the others, that I wasn’t good enough, that it was easier to just stay on the couch... endless loop. Do you know this feeling?
But then, when I dared to face my inner resistance and completed the class, I felt the best: during the class, I had goosebumps because the music was so good, and after the class, I was rewarded with pride, satisfaction, energy, sore muscles (I love muscle soreness), strength, and a craving for healthy food and a good night’s sleep! It’s worth the effort, isn’t it? What do you think?
Today, I know that I am solely responsible for taking that first step. I’m 40 years old, a mother of two, self-employed, often tired because of lack of sleep, I manage a household, and I could list even more, but regular exercise benefits me every week, and it’s now a must. It gives me energy, balance, and a good mood. Of course, I also enjoy sparking that special feeling in my clients after their training. I also know that exercise starts in the mind. You have to convince your brain and defeat the "inner chatter" (as Nicole Davidow, a Life Coach, calls it). And you have to do that every time until your body says, "I need movement now!" Positive messages are learned and stored by the body, and exercise becomes a natural part of your life. Want to give it a try? In our Mindfulness post, that might be something you could focus on. Start with something you enjoy and give each sport at least two chances.
Reasons Why I Advocate Movement for All Ages:
Our motto is "Be Fit in Life"!
My clients often come to me only when they have acute pain or are on the brink of surgery. But exercise can be done proactively to prevent these issues.
It’s scientifically proven that children who engage in regular physical activity (school sports aren’t enough) perform better academically. They are also more balanced and happier.
Older adults remain more flexible and have fewer aches and pains. There are people who, as they age, forget how to move their bodies, severely limiting their movement range.
Parents are role models. Some parents give their full attention to their children and forget about themselves. But if you show your kids that it’s important to take time for yourself, they learn to appreciate themselves and stay motivated.
Sports connect people on all levels. Whether with colleagues, family, or friends, exercise is fun. I often observe parents who are reluctant or sluggish to play with their kids. Wouldn’t it be a great incentive to join in?
Sport is especially helpful during puberty, menopause, and midlife crises to improve well-being and deal better with hormonal changes.Hormonschwankungen zurecht zu kommen.
Did I convince you? Has something shifted inside you? Overcome your hesitation and get started.
We’re happy to help you find your path. Our online fitness courses offer enough variety for both relaxed and energetic individuals. A trial session is free. If you prefer to train alone, personal training is a great option. In personal training, we can discuss which sport suits you best and what you enjoy the most. We’ll create different training plans, and you can decide which direction to take.
Are you someone who prefers team sports or something else? Don’t wait too long, sign up for a trial session today.
In the next post, coming on June 3, 2022, we’ll talk about #2 Online Fitness and how to best prepare for it.
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