Personal Trainers Have Fitness Struggles Too
This question was asked by a BuddySlim fitness buddy! She can tell you who she is if she wants!
Client Q: Mark, I have a question? What do you struggle with? I think of you as this fitness god, but let’s know you better…. ya know.
Mark’s Q: Great question! I’m definitely not a fitness god! But I made a commitment to fitness years ago and that’s the key! But, I had alot of help! Let me explain:
1) I grew up in sunny New Mexico so I played outside almost everyday. That leads to an active lifestyle of games, walking, running, etc. Fun exercise is the best exercise. Even today, I do exercises that I like (there are tons to choose from)!
2) I participated in organized sports from age 5 to age 21. Along with genetics, that’s how I shaped a lean, athletic body. From there, all I basically had to do was maintain what was built.
3) I didn’t own a car until I was 23 years old so I walked and biked alot. Again, this helps lead to an active lifestyle (OK, I bummed alot of car rides too)!
4) I grew up in a time when kids came home from school, did their homework (well some of the time anyway) and then went outside and played games til dark (now kids are on MySpace and FaceBook til dark).
So, I kinda indirectly fell into the “fitness lifestyle.” Stated another way, I had alot of “social support” to help me stay fit. Social support is a leading indicator that you will stay on the fitness track!
The commitment to a fit lifestyle will lead to the body changes you want and give you lifetime health. I always tell people to commit to this lifestyle first and the health and “hot body” will follow!
Anyway, one of my weaknesses is sweets. I love sweets! I try to find replacements for them. So, instead of soda, I will drink water or unsweetened tea. And candy! Instead of eating a whole bag of M&Ms, I try to eat a few! And, some days I just flat out cheat. If you make the commitment to fitness and hold to good nutrition about 90% of the time, you will be just fine.
Unlike some trainers, I stress health and commitment first because that’s really where the problem issues are! The commitment to a fit lifestyle trumps all other fitness commitments and will help you to overcome the obstacles and failures along the way.
A fitness god I am not—I am committed to fitness! Stay tuned for parts 2 through 5 of this series and I’ll let you know about other weakness that “this trainer” has!
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Okay, it wasn’t me who asked that question, and a fitness “God”, you may not be(but, you definatley come close..lol) But, you were lucky enough to fall into a category, where growing up, your lifestyle, included…eating healthy, and having the opportunity to exercise, (or play). What would be your advice be to those who have struggled with being overweight all their lives, not being regimented, or having the opportunities as you, yourself did, to get out and just “have fun”. For some on here it’s just a bit harder to commit and change themselves, learning a whole new lifestyle. I’m not making excuses, because I know it can be done, but I do think it truly is harder to teach an “old dog”…”new tricks”. And there are many out here who just try so hard, eating right and it’s a constant fight to keep a strong fitness lifestyle. Whatcha think Mister?What would you suggest, as far as fitness, as to the certain changes that need to be made, and how often? Everyone is different, health issues etc., so I am sure it varies, but there must be a constant somewhere along the lines. Perhaps, just staring out where you are comfortable, and adding more time, more weights…each day…each week? Anyway…thanks, as always for all your great info.
Perfect! We all have struggles and the struggles are different for everyone. That’s why you make the commitment first. I would suggest changing habits a little at a time—such as drinking only water and unsweetened drinks, not eating fast food, getting a workout partner to help you, not eating fried foods, Exercising Regularly, keeping a food journal, etc. The little things add up to eventually a lifestyle. The experts say it takes about 21 days to start or break a habit. And remember, exercise covers alot of nutrition mishaps. Hang tough! Stay with it! If you have a bad day today, it doesn’t mean you have to have a bad day tomorrow. Lift the weights, do the cardio and burn the fat—week after week….Your health matters the most…I want to see my grandkids one day (far into the future)!
Well I didn’t ask it, but I love your honesty, and I value your input. You have helped me in my fitness endeavors many times. I just signed up on your forum, too!
As far as the M&Ms, I love them too, and I jsut get the little Halloween sized bags, when I want to limit myself and eat half!
Thank Kitty!
LOL… I would have posed the question better if I had known I might be quoted.
But I feel this sometimes that I should be better at feeding myself considering I do feel passionately about health.
I suspected that you were more man then god, but I wrote because at the time it was on my mind. I like that we know you a bit better and I thank you for this.
What a wonderful world we would have if we as children and adults spent more time playing and being active. What a great way to grow up! Thank you Mark.
I too have a sweet tooth but moderation and activity have been life savers.
Have a great weekend!
Well its good to know even you have struggles!
I remember when I was a kid we were always outside. Like you I was a sports fanatic..I played basketball, volleyball and ran track for years. I dont know why, as adults, we stop doing all those things. I am back into running but it would be nice to find some other people to play basketball/v-ball with.
great blog!
Thanks Tiff and Jenn! Stay tuned for parts 2 through 5!