The 5 Stories Unhealthy People Tell Themselves That Hold Them Back
Tony Robbins says, “People's stories are often true, but not effective.” This is especially applicable when it comes to fitness. We lie to ourselves about why we can’t lose weight or reach our fitness goals.
But, these are just stories. And if the story you’re telling yourself is keeping you from getting fit, regardless of if it’s true, it’s a limiting belief that’s holding you back. Here are some of the most common ones we tell ourselves, as well as the actions we can take to turn them around.
1. “It’s too expensive to join a gym or take studio classes.”
Yes, studio classes can be expensive, and there are lots of expensive gyms. But there are also many affordable ones. Planet Fitness costs $10 per month and has locations throughout the country. Blink Fitness, which is Equinox’s less expensive sister brand, has 70 locations and costs as little as $15 per month.
Instead of spending $5 every day on a latte, put that money towards your gym membership.
Instead of spending $5 every day on a latte, put that money towards your gym membership. Or skip one brunch a month! You can also take free community classes at local studios, which are often taught by instructors who are new or recently trained. Gilt and Groupon are great ways to score deals on fitness class. Or ask your studio about packages and specials. Additionally, there is an endless amount of free content you can stream on YouTube.
2. “There isn’t a gym near my home or office.”
You don’t need a gym to get fit! Run, walk, or hike outside. Consider using an app like Tone It Up or BBG. You can also invest in your own equipment. Buy a Peloton bike and bring the spin class to your living room. Consider purchasing a home Pilates reformer. There are also less expensive options like free weights, bands, etc.
3. “I have an injury.”
Talk to your doctor about what you can do instead of focusing on what you can’t. For example, if you break your arm, there is no reason why you can’t work your legs or do certain cardio workouts. Even with an injury, there's always a way to work around it. Go to a physical therapist or do exercises to repair your body so you can return to your regular routine again. When you’re recovering, it is a good idea to be mindful of your eating so that you don’t gain too much weight.
4. “It's my genetics. My whole family's this way.”
This is a terrible excuse. Our genetics determine some things, but they don’t determine everything. Don't let this hold you back or make you think that your fitness goals will be impossible to reach. If you can create a calorie deficit through diet and exercise, you will lose weight — no matter what your genes are like. It also might be time to enlist the help of a professional such as a nutritionist or personal trainer to determine the best plan of action.
If you can create a calorie deficit through diet and exercise, you will lose weight — no matter what your genes are like.
5. "I have a low metabolism.”
Not everyone has a fast metabolism, but there are many easy ways to boost yours. Try high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or lifting weights. Drinking green tea, cold water, or coffee can also help. Adding more protein and spicy foods to your diet can also boost your metabolism. Don’t forget to rest and get plenty of sleep.