Moving Forward

If your program isn't advancing you toward your objectives, it's time to make some changes. Often a program is unbalanced (too heavily focused on cardio, strength or flexibility at the expense of the other modes). Another common weakness of some fitness programs is improper execution, which diminishes both safety and effectiveness. I've written about both of these problems before, but today I'm talking about something even more basic.

A program may be ideal on paper, but for you, it just might not be the best fit. The thing is that finding a good fit for both your current objectives and lifestyle is a critical element in determining your chances for success. Do you prefer to work out in the morning? Is noon or after work better for you? Are you a gym rat or do you need to be on your home turf? Does the fresh air and sunshine of the great outdoors call to you or do you need to have air conditioning (or heat) and fluorescent lights to hit your target heart rate? Is working out with a partner going to motivate you more or are you more likely to achieve your personal best in solitude?

These questions are not trivial. We were meant to evolve, and the right fit for you, wherever you may be in the process is the singular key to moving forward.

To be able to do anything in your life with commitment and conviction, it has to be right for you. And nobody else can decide that for you.

So listen to your heart and see what makes it beat best.