Stay Focused on Fitness

Chandi Schwab

In today’s busy world time is so valuable, especially when it comes to your workouts. In order to reach your fitness goals you have to gain strength not only physically, but also mentally. In order to zone in, it often means zoning distractions out. Here are some ways to help you stay focused on a healthy lifestyle.

1. Be clear about your goal and visualize it

Whether you are walking into the gym, going for a run, or exercising in your living room, you should have a clear picture of the goal you are trying to achieve. Always keep the bigger picture in mind. An upcoming contest, more defined legs, lose 10 pounds ect... Be aware of the long term goal, but set short term goals for yourself each training session.Like the ability to bench press 5 more pounds than last week, run 2 minutes longer, burn 50 more calories, whatever it is, you must be prepared to do what you set out to conquer. By achieving the short-term goals week after week the ultimate goal becomes more obtainable. Get your mind ready to take on the challenge and don’t let anything stop you. It’s time to FOCUS.

2. Time it right

Worrying about events from the day can negatively impact your training session. Choose a time of day that is dedicated to your fitness goals and nothing else.

I make health and fitness a priority. I work on the principle of priorities first, therefore I like to workout first thing in the morning when my mind is clear and I can dedicate as much energy and focus to my workout as possible before any of the day’s events even have a chance to interfere.

Discover your optimal training time by determining when you have the most energy and enthusiasm to work towards your goal. If there is never a time you feel like this about training then you may want to re-evaluate your motives.

3. Utilize the play list

Create your music play list to match your intensity. We’re not doing yoga here, skip over anything other than a beat and lyrics that make you feel pumped up and “in the zone.” Focus on the positive vibrations that are being heard and keep your heart and muscles pumping to the beat.

4. Embrace the movement

Be aware of proper execution for each exercise before you start applying the intensity. Connect with the muscles performing the exercise and feel the muscles working throughout the movement.

By focusing on your technique you can eliminate distractions in the gym and turn your attention back to you and your training goals. Mirrors are in the gym for a reason. Use them to check your form, track your progress, and motivate you to work harder.

5. Move with purpose

If you don’t have a game plan when you exercise, you could be wasting a lot of time. You’re leaving the door wide open for distraction. Have a program and workout log that catalogs your workouts, what machines you’re using, what weight, tempo, rest periods, and so on.

This will allow you to move deliberately in your workout going from one exercise to the other with focus and purpose as if you’re in a hot pursuit. There’s no sense in sitting there looking around for what “feat” you will conquer next.Have a plan that you know will work for you and will lead you to your goal.