Six Life Lessons I learned at the Gym

Six Life Lessons I learned at the Gym

1. Cheating your way to your goal is totally acceptable
Confession time: sometimes I cheat. Big time. And sometimes I cheat just a little bit. And I am totally ok with that. Many times, I actually encourage my clients to cheat. If necessary, that is. “Make your jumps a little smaller,” and “Don’t go down that deep on your lunges.” As people cheat their way to good jumps and lunges, they work through it. It gives them a sense of accomplishment, and they’ll want to come back for more until you master it. Success breeds success. And in the process of cheating their way to their goal, they are getting fitter. And eventually, they get there…

2. Don’t forget to breathe
If you don’t breathe, you might faint. And that’s no fun. Breathing brings oxygen to your lungs, and your blood, and gives you what you need to go on. Actually, while you work out, all you have is oxygen and water. You need them. And in life, you don’t function too well without oxygen. You don’t do too well when you are too busy to breathe. Take your time and breathe through whatever you have to go through...
3. Hard-won victory is sweet
The obstacle may be tremendously difficult at times, almost insurmountable. And you might have to break it up in smaller obstacles to get there. But I am telling you the truth, the thrill of having conquered the last hill, or jump, or press is like nothing else. Invigorating, empowering and wonderful… Just ask first time marathoners, they’ll tell you!
4. This too shall pass
Burning pain and soreness may last for a few days, and you might need to do a little extra stretching and drink some more water, but neither is ever permanent. They will eventually bring forth strength and you will be ready to take on more than ever. Joy and determination are on the heel of the struggle…
5. There’s no moment like the present
You can talk about working out until you are blue in the face, you can think about it, dream about it, plan et and prepare for it, but unless you actually do it, it doesn’t benefit you. You’ve got to get up of the couch and begin. You’ve got to seize the moment and do it. Now. And tomorrow’s now. And the one after. There is power in the now…
6. It’s ok to take a break
Sometimes, you are just too tired, or too sore to work out. And your body is telling you to take it easy. There isn’t anything wrong with listening and obeying your body. To press through when there is nothing to do it with is useless. So let yourself take a break and replenish. Spirit, soul and body… When you come back, you will be full of energy and enthusiasm…
If you want more fitness tips, hop on over to my fitness blog at www.barbsfitu.wordpress.com