Very often the reason people start an exercise regime is because they have goals like losing a stone or fitting into a certain outfit.

Which are both great targets to hit.

But are also quite short term.

The best results we’ve seen over the years are from people who while they may have more immediate targets they want to hit, also think long term.

Ultimately they go thinking “I’ve got to train to hit XYZ” to thinking;

“I’m someone who looks after my health.”

The difference this makes over the long term is huge.

The good if you’re struggling with your exercise routine is that there’s ways you can make identity changes when it comes to your health.

Such as changing your initial demands on yourself. Instead of “having to train in a gym 5 days a week” you could start smaller and consider 2 – 3 gym sessions along with a number of short walks.

That way you become someone who moves your body every day.

You could change your language around yourself. Stop using “I’m trying to get fit” and say “I train”.

You might reduce the friction around what you’re trying to achieve and set up automatic wins.

Like having a water bottle at your desk and your training gear ready the night before a workout.

Another option is to focus on the process as much as the outcome.

Tracking the weight you lift going up as much as the weight on the scales is one way to do this.

Feeling how your energy levels increase over time is another.

Lastly, you could start surrounding yourself with people who have already made regular exercise a part of their lifestyle.

The more you hang out with people who see training and looking after their health as normal, the more normal you’ll also come to see it.

If you’re over 30 and someone who needs some help with your health and fitness identity, send us an e-mail to info@thefitnesssocietyireland.com and we will let you know how our 28 Day Kick start program can help!