Think Yourself Fit 

'Think yourself fit' seems to be the phrase of the month here in the UK. There's been a mass of publicity in the UK this week concerning healthy lifestyles, the type of foods we eat, and what we can expect as a society in the very near future if we don't all start taking better care of ourselves.

There are many amongst us that already eat healthy, nutritious diets, exercise regularly, and generally take great care of themselves. There are also those who don't, and many more who live somewhere between the two.

My experience as a Coach & Hypnotherapist over the past 5 years has been that whilst most of us want a healthier life, we're also somewhat overwhelmed by so much information, much of it conflicting research, and are unsure what to do (and not do) next.

One belief does find universal agreement; achieving great health starts with the mind. What we focus on, we become. Therefore, if you think yourself fit, you will do just that.

Stephen Covey, author of 'The 7 Habit's of Highly Effective People' suggested we 'begin with the end in mind'. Personal trainers do the same. Whenever we join a new gym, the trainer will always ask you what you want to achieve so that they can tailor an exercise programme just for you.

Do you do the same with your overall health? Knowing what you want is one of the keys to any plan. If you ran a race without a finish line would you know how far to run or even the right direction to run in? The can be said for having fitness plan without a target; to have an aim is a prerequisite to achieving success.

First rule of success

The number one rule to remember in goal setting is to write down your goal! So many times we have brilliant ideas or a worthwhile intention, but then something else comes along and ‘bang’ the first brilliant idea has been forgotten. I first learnt this rule in song writing; write ideas down. Make a note, have a ’book of ideas’, jotter in your office or kitchen – but have a system in place to record your plan. Why is writing so important? Because it provides self-accountability and if you have a trainer or coach then you also have an extra layer of accountability. Both or either helps you idea to become a habit.

Steps to get athletic

The following steps are designed to mentally begin the process of getting you to think about your health more. It's good practice to have a medical check-up before beginning any dietary or exercise programme. Taking professional advice should always be part of any success strategy. Remember, 'no man (or woman) is an island'

• Write down the reasons you want to get fitter and live a healthier lifestyle.
• Decide what your goal is, and then begin 'chunking back' in weekly or monthly steps what you'll need to do to achieve it. Big goals inspire us, and small goals motivate us because they're achievable. Together, they make it happen.
• Be positive. See your cup as 'half full'. Talking yourself down never works, so support yourself with positive self talk, and also positive, empowering language when talking with others.
• As you would label a refreshing drink 'delicious', also label working out with positive words and feelings. If you label exercise 'hard work' you won't stick at it, but if you label it 'fun and exhilarating' you will.
• Keep it light. Enjoy doing different exercises and eating different nutritious foods as part of your fitness regime.
• Practice great health by dreaming it everyday! Spend two 15 minute sessions sitting down and imagining yourself in the future the way you want it to be. This is powerful, and practiced everyday will motivate you to create what you see.
• Label yourself a success. Always remember to give yourself a pat on the back after having a great workout, a brilliant day, or motivational conversation.

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