JERRY Diaz can help you keep your New Year’s resolution to start your fitness journey.
“Staying motivated is a real challenge that many individuals experience as they try to maintain a consistent schedule and stay disciplined,” said Diaz, a National Academy of Sports Medicine personal trainer.
“Finding a purpose to motivate each client is the biggest factor for certified personal trainers,” he added.
Diaz said he works closely with his clients so they’ll know when to workout, when to reward themselves, when to rest, and when to push themselves.
Diaz shared the following key points that will help you stay motivated:
• Keep the goal in mind. It must be a realistic goal that is easy to follow. Don’t create a schedule that is too complex and not flexible in case unexpected things come up.
If an individual’s goal is to lose one pound a week, but then needs to attend a buffet party with friends and family, he or she must eat in moderation.
“This is why it is important to be reminded about the reason why you started a fitness program in the first place,” Diaz said.
• Do activities that you enjoy. “We easily get sucked in by social media ads that promote various types of exercises or diet programs,” Diaz said. “So we purchase them, but after a few weeks, we’ve lost our motivation.”
Diaz added, “We have do what we love. If you love karate, functional fitness, barbell complex, boxing, yoga or swimming, training alone or with a group, then that should be your go-to goal.”
Now if you love pizza, noodles or alcohol, don’t ignore your urges, Diaz said, but instead approach them with moderation. Appreciate each bite and sip without going pass your daily calorie intake.
• Keep it simple. Quality over quantity is the mindset that we must have to maintain an achievable program for our short- and long-term goals, Diaz said.
• Keep a visual log of your successes and challenges. Track your progress. Take videos or photos. Keep a journal.
Diaz also suggests forming a group with a common fitness goal. You can train with friends and families who have similar fitness levels and goals. You could all attend a gym class, work out at home or outdoors.
• Staying motivated means staying balanced. Set your priorities. Take small steps that can be easily followed. Reward yourself for achieving your goals.
“Creating a positive mindset will help an individual achieve success even during challenging periods,” Diaz said.
For professional fitness inquiries, contact Jerry Diaz through Instagram at @BBJ_Athletics or Facebook.
Li Li smiles as she works out at BBJ Athletics.
