Article

Tips to Staying Motivated And Getting Past Sticking Points

Written by Shawn Phillips

Topic: Fitness and ExercisePublished April 30, 2008
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Motivatio

Why people do anything in life is a topic worth exploring. In the case of toning and shaping your body, it is of the utmost importance to initially address this topic before going into a diet and exercise program. Many books will primarily focus on what to eat and how to perform various exercises. Of course this is the meat and potatoes of any training program, but without the right motivation a person will not maintain any consistency over the long run.

I've been training for years and it is amazing to see various types of people keep in shape while others have the best intention, but never can seem to follow though. Why is this? It all comes back to their motivation. How strong is their motivation to succeed or to change their body? My motivation in my early 20's was primarily to stay in shape to attract the opposite sex (laughing to myself). Some might say "wow, that's superficial". Yes maybe, but it worked. Now that I'm in my thirties and I'm in a relationship and my motivation has changed. My motivation now is to stay fit and healthy because it feels good. I enjoy staying in shape because I play soccer better; I'm faster, quicker, and have a much more powerful shot. Also, another motivation is that I like being a role model. I'm not always perfect, but I eat healthy about 9 out of 10 times and I enjoy combining the physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental - becoming a more balanced individual.

Ok, let's get back to you... What is your motivation? I would like to start off by addressing various topics that I feel are important for you to achieve success.

America loves to spend money

America spends millions and millions of dollars on face creams, surgery, supplements, anti-aging concoctions, clothes, makeup, etc. It seems that companies will sell you anything that will appeal to your insecurity promising to "help you look young" or to simply "help you look better". I see all of these ads and promises and it makes me cringe inside. I feel that people are being manipulated by advertiser who appeal to their insecurity and tell a story that is simply untrue. Usually the story is something like this: If you try my product (fill in the blank), overnight you will look younger and feel better. Companies in the 21st century are smart. They appeal to a person's need to believe that changing your looks or your body is easy. Let me be the first to tell you that the cheapest and most efficient way to look better is simply eating healthy and exercising. It may not be easy but it works.

This is the best way to slow down the aging process, look sexier, and to reduce wrinkles. Again, if you want to look good - eat healthy and exercise. I am a very upfront and honest person and I'll be the first person to tell you not to appease yourself by holding onto the misconception that all the expensive face creams and such will help you become more youthful. They won't if you're not eating healthy and exercising. So in this case your motivation for change could be aesthetics, health, sex appeal, and energy. And this is obtainable by eating healthy and exercising. nnn

Article author

About the Author

Shawn is one of the most popular trainers in Los Angeles. He has trained a variety of celebrities, is the founder of Perfect Body, Inc., has been a spokesperson for Time Warner, manages three health and fitness websites, was featured four times on KCAL 9 news “9 on the town”, has appeared on a variety of cable shows, runs a successful personal training practice, and is currently working on an infomercial. His approach to fitness is both unique and compelling. He uses a three dimensional approach which includes the mind, body, and spirit. This approach has been extremely useful and effective to help people lose weight. Shawn’s background is wide and diverse. He attended UCLA graduating with honors in Economics and Philosophy. While attending UCLA, Shawn was a model with the prestigious Ford Modeling Agency. After graduation, was hired by the esteemed investment bank, Merrill Lynch, as an institutional broker and then subsequently transferred over to Smith Barney to become a Financial Advisor. After his 4 year stay in finance, Shawn’s health was diminishing so he left the industry, starting a new career as a Fitness Consultant. Shawn is now an entrepreneur in the fitness industry focusing on personal training, public speaking, fitness modeling, and media. Shawn is certified with the National Academy of Sports Medicine and trains at Power House gym in West Los Angeles. He also does in–home training sessions in the following areas: Los Angeles, Venice, Santa Monica, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Marina Del Rey, Century City, and Beverly Hills. If you would like to read more free health and fitness tips feel free to go to www.shawnphillipstraining.com

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