5 things you didn’t know about getting in shape

It’s that time again.

Past the joy and excitement of the holidayseason, past the whirlwind atmosphere of New Years’ Eve and Day, more than a month and a half after you first made that New Years’ Resolution! This would be the year you were committed, determined, hit the gym, ran every day, put Rocky Balboa’s training montage to shame!

And now it’s February – the time of year when most New Years’ Resolutions, sadly, die.

But this is the year that all changes!

Here are five things you didn’t know about getting into shape, and what you can do to make this the year different!

Body Type Matters

From the get-go, you want to be sure that you’re picking an exercise plan because it’s right for you, not because it’s fashionable or “should work.” The fact is that our bodies all store and metabolize fat and protein differently, meaning different routines will produce different results for different people. Any real and honest efforts made towards reshaping your body, therefore, must begin with you recognizing and honoring your body type.

And remember – no one body type is better than another, so don’t feel discouraged. Such feelings are the fastest way to fail in a weight loss or exercise routine. Getting in shape is more than merely a physical process – it requires that you get your mind and sense of self in shape as well! Self-loathing has no place in any weight loss routine!

A Matter of Perspective

Are you going to drop twenty pounds in a week? The answer is no (at least not safely). We live in an instantaneous age where immediate gratification is craved. Too often, people begin their workout routines with great gusto, proceed for a week or two, and then begin to slack off. One of the main reasons this occurs is a lack of immediate gratification. Keep your goals in perspective, especially if they’re large or long-term goals. It’s going to take time, so give yourself a break and give yourself that time!

Beware Great Expectations

Dickens’ timeless classic warns us as to the dangers of pride and having Great Expectations. That same warning works just as well today, and is just as important when trying to get into shape. No matter how young and rich they may be, there’s simply no way that Pip and Estella are at all as important or destined for greatness as they envision themselves. Likewise, no matter how much you train, chances are you won’t be rivaling any fashion models or body builders in terms of your overall muscle tone or appearance.

Such “great expectations” just aren’t realistic, and such short-sightedness dooms you from the start.

Beware False Advertising

What’s more, even these paragons of beauty and strength don’t measure up to the standards that the media sets for them.Inparticular, those glossy magazine covers you see with fashion models posing are usually doctored using Photoshop and other tools. Remember to tailor your routine toyour wants and needs, your BMI and similar data. Getting in shape means reshaping yourself, not trying to become someone else!

Get Fit With a Fitness Center

One of the best ways to accomplish any goal is with the support of others, and that’s why a fitness center – such as is offered by groups such as BodyLab – can really help. With state-of-the-art equipment, a friendly and helpful group atmosphere and positive reinforcement, it’s just the thing to help you win the Battle of the Bulge!