There is no doubt about it; regardless of who you ask, the vast majority of individuals would probably say that they wish they were in better shape. It is a constant battle, and one that I have grown to learn more and more about as I continue aging past what was once my prime.
Since the days of eating whatever I want, I’ve had to develop stricter methods of staying healthy and fit. I can no longer eat to my heart’s content, and I actually have to make sure I get some type of exercise routine in daily. It has been a struggle, but one that keeps me on my toes when my 3 kids want me to wrestle with them.
Hopefully, by the end of the article, you will have a pretty good idea of what has worked to keep me in shape as time plays its nasty joke on each and every one of us. Ultimately, I want readers to take what I have learned and try to implement it in their lives. I can promise that you will not regret it when you are nearly 40 and can still beat a teenager in a foot race.
Have a Plan
In the past, I didn’t really follow any workout plan other than going to the gym on a regular basis. Back when I had endless amounts of energy it was easy.
Now that age is no longer on my side, I’ve had to develop a plan that I will stick to. It has taken some time and I have failed more than a few times, but what has really worked for me is keeping the plan realistic.
It’s easy to tell yourself you’re going to work out for an hour a day, 5 days a week, but what happens when you are too tired one day? Usually, the entire week is shot. What keeps me going is planning shorter workouts that I know I will do even when I feel tired or weak. That way I am sure to start my workout, and even more sure to add to it as I begin the routine.
Success Comes in Numbers
My second step is one that has been crucial for me. I make my plans known to the people I know. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t shout it from the rooftops or anything, but I definitely let it be known if someone asks me what I’ve been up to.
The reason I tell people about my routine is to gain workout supporters. Most people have a plan in their head that involves getting into better shape. By sharing your plan with those around you, you unknowingly create a support group that will help lift and guide you to the goals you envision.
Have a Mentor
When I was younger, I always looked to Arnold for inspiration. I had his guide book that is the size of an encyclopedia to guide me through workouts that would help me gain size and strength. I tried to work out the way he worked out, and I tried to diet the way he dieted. He was my mentor, and it worked pretty well for me.
Now that I’m older, I don’t have the time to devote to working out that I once did. So, I’ve had to find a new mentor. For me, that is Tony Horton. He is an older guy who looks a heck of a lot better than I ever have, so he is a great example for me.
Having a mentor gives you something to look forward to. You look to that individual as the pinnacle of your health. You may never get there, but you’ll always know that your dreams are a possibility as long as they have a constant presence in your life.
Never Give Up
Finally, my last tip is actually something I’ve turned into a rule; never give up. Sure, there are days that I falter on my diet, but I don’t wait until tomorrow to correct it. I make sure my next meal is in harmony with where I foresee myself in a certain amount of time.
If you are the type of person that feels like your day is ruined because you ate a donut for breakfast, or fries for lunch, bury that thought and continue as if it never happened. Just know that you will have moments of weakness as does everyone. Knowing you will occasionally fail will help you to forgive yourself and move forward with confidence.
[box_light]Bart Vale writes for many fitness clients such as Inspire Fit Resorts, one of the premier Utah fitness resorts. He hopes readers find his experiences to be an inspiration for a positive change in their lives.[/box_light]
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