8 things we wish we knew when we first started
We both started our health and fitness journeys over 10 years ago now! Just like you, we felt incredibly overwhelmed at the start of our journeys with all of the information out there. It’s no secret that we have both made a lot of mistakes along the way and listened to the wrong advice. But hindsight is a wonderful thing isn’t it! While learning and evolving from your mistakes is definitely part of the journey, if we can save you from some of the frustration and time-wasting we went through, we will!
Here are 8 things we wish we knew from the start…
1. There are no “good” or “bad” foods.
Your relationship with food is extremely important. And it can be easily damaged with unnecessary food rules. All foods can be included as part of a healthy, balanced diet. You don’t need to feel guilty for eating certain foods.
2. More isn’t better.
Killing yourself in the gym for 3 hours a day trying to burn as many calories as possible isn’t dedication, it’s unnecessary. We have been there, done that! Doing an excessive amount of exercise doesn’t always equal better results. And it certainly isn’t sustainable.
3. Evidence-based methods aren’t always what’s practical.
I’m all for following evidence-based approaches but preferences, abilities, and schedules need to be considered. What might be most “effective” might not be most practical for you and that’s ok. It doesn’t mean you won’t achieve your goals!
4. It’s better to focus on the process instead of the outcome.
Purely focusing on the result you want won’t get you closer to your goal and will often just leave you feeling frustrated. When you shift your focus to the process instead and the things you actually need to do to achieve your goals, you’ll find results will follow.
5. What you weigh means NOTHING.
As soon as you stop basing your progress purely off the scales, your journey will be so much more enjoyable. Look at the bigger picture and shift your focus to non-scale wins. These are often far more meaningful markers of progress that will have a greater impact on your life.
6. It’s okay to change your goals.
When you’re working towards a goal you might realise that it’s not what you want anymore. Or maybe you realise that the sacrifice required to achieve that goal isn’t worth it to you. That’s totally fine! Don’t be afraid to change your goal at any time.
7. Comparing yourself to others is never helpful.
There is zero benefit from comparing where you are now with anyone else, especially those who are already years into their journey. Make sure that any goals you set are goals that you personally resonate with and that you aren’t just doing what you think you should be doing.
8. Prioritising your health & fitness should add value to your life, not make it worse.
Eating a balanced diet and moving your body should make you feel good, physically & mentally. If your diet or training routine is affecting your quality of life in any way, or you are obsessing over how you look – it’s time to reassess.
If you don’t want to make the same mistakes we did and you want to lose fat in the most effective way, we’re here to help! Click here to find out more about our 1:1 Personalised Coaching.
