Fitness: Changing Your Mindset

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by Renae Chiovaro on February 23, 2016

mind battles

Getting into a fitness routine has a lot to do with your mindset. If your not mentally on board to accept the challenge, it will be hard to succeed. One quote that has really struck me is:

“Most battles are won or lost in the mind.”

Your mind can be your best friend or your worst enemy. It can be full of doubt or full of encouragement. This concept applies to many areas in life including exercise and diet! Often times my brain will be at a battle of wills with itself – especially if I’m completing a solo workout. If I’m working out with a group, I have a much easier time.

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Here is a typical scenario of my mental battle for a solo workout:

The workout plan I was following was very intense with arm weight movements, high knees, burpees, pushups and various other exercises. It said to complete 5 rounds. When I got to round 3, my mind started doubting I could make it 5 rounds. I was tired and out of breath. Half of my brain said 4 rounds is good while the other half said your being a wimp! My brain battled back and forth for the whole round 3.

I’ve learned over the years to push through the doubt. I actually said out loud “you can do this” and I continued completing round 5. Often times your body is stronger than your mind thinks it is.

It’s all about changing your mindset. This takes time to develop and constant practice.

Mindset = A list of thoughts and feelings practiced to help form good habits to complete the skill.

  1. Make space in your life for your health.
  2. Anticipate feelings of doubt and insecurity.
  3. Believe you can get better.
  4. Practice.

A fitness journey is all up to you and your mindset. I can encourage you, offer tips and provide support. Your family and friends can do the same. But the work is up to you! Are you ready? Are you done making excuses? Is your brain ready to battle? Because believe me, even though I’m the fittest I’ve been in my entire life, I still have days that I have to push away the doubt.

The journey to health is not easy but it’s so worth it! YOU are worth it!

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Renae Chiovaro

Renae is a married working mom of two handsome boys. She works as a registered dental hygienist by day and blogs here at How to Have it All by night. She enjoys cooking from scratch, working in her vegetable garden and functional training.

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