More than any other time of the year, at the beginning of a new year fitness challenges flood the market. People rush into things because they need to quick ways to achieve ill-thought-out fitness ‘resolutions’. There are countless fitness professionals out there bagging 6, 8, 10 & 12 week Challenges. They claim that these programs are dangerous and can have negative impacts on people both physically and mentally. I agree and disagree with this. Like any profession, field or industry there are some VERY dubious people and businesses who may or may not have your best interest at heart.
Rest assured, there are many amazing and well-structured challenges that adopt highly skilled coaches, balanced training principles, sustainable meal plans for health and results, addressing behavioural change and developing amazing support groups etc. Be open-minded, they can bring hugely positive benefits into other areas of life. Let me share a quick story…
A 12 week challenge changed the course of my life
This photo of me was my very first 12 week challenge way back in 2002 (a WHOPPING 16yrs ago) and to this day I believe I still remain fit, healthy, strong physically and mentally, adopt a strong work ethic in business and coaching and I put it all down to what I call “a pivotal life changing moment”.
I 100% believe that challenge in 2002 was the TURNING point, the catalyst for me building my career in health and fitness. It helped shape and develop me into the husband, father, coach, son, friend, business owner I am today. Who knows… without this experience I may have chosen another career path.
Find what is right for YOU
In my recent blog ‘If it’s meant to be it’s up to me’ I advocated that you should Take 100% responsibility for EVERYTHING you experience in your life. Take that thinking it an apply it to finding sources of inspiration. Coming back to Fitness Challenges – be open and try not to stereotype all Challenges as “quick fixes” and “crash diet” programs. If you discover one that feels authentic, they can actually transform your life in more ways than you thought for many, many decades to come.” Instead, see them as a stepping stone towards achieving your fitness and wellness life goals.
Whether you are buying a protein powder, a washing machine or a fitness program you should take the same approach – do your research and follow your gut or intuition to make an informed decision so that you choose a high-quality product or service that meets YOUR needs.
The path to success is squiggly but take control of its general direction
Where you do you want to be in 6 months? 2 Years? Everyone has different goals, and these change over time. Maybe you want to compete in weightlifting or just live life pain-free from a niggling shoulder/neck/ankle/back/knee? We all have something that we could use as an ‘excuse’ that can prevent us from pursuing an opportunity to learn and grow and work towards. Take time to look back on what has worked (and not worked) in the past when you have embarked on ‘challenges’ and refine your goals.
The most important thing is to focus on the future & know exactly where you are going, what you’re heading towards. The end goal will likely change but with this approach you’ll always be moving forward & learning along the way.
Coach and Co – Founder Jason