If you caught my last post on maintaining happiness, you’ve discovered that working out has become an essential part of my everyday life. At the start of 2021, I made a promise that I wanted to improve my physical appearance – mainly focusing on toning and building more muscle mass. I also needed to pinpoint a way to adequately relieve extensive stress. It’s been quite a journey.
Positivity is also another aspect that has fueled my fitness trek. Trust me- it is painfully easy to get discouraged and sometimes putting in that hour-a-day feels almost endless. January 2021 was a rough month for me, I fought through the pain of being out of shape and I took baby steps to develop a routine that fit my hectic schedule. My body ached with every step I took and it felt like progress was a figment of my imagination. At first, I started working out Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays – from there – my endurance and strength started to build. By May 2021, a persisted with a curated program that allowed me to work out five to six times a week. Dumbbells have become my best friend, protein is a constant in sustaining me and words of motivation from my trainer is the cherry on top.
Not only did I have to alter the way I viewed exercise, but my attitude towards staying active was also a deciding factor. Positivity is the secret. Even when you’re sweating from every crevice of your body, you have to enjoy and embrace those moments. Be grateful for having the capacity to do that sumo squat or press those extra ten pounds. Each completed workout is a step closer to reaching your goal. Welcome the struggle.
Adding a bit of variety also helped to keep me focused. I’ve done it all – walking, yoga, strength training, pilates, barre, HIIT and boot camps of every kind. I re-visited the 1990’s Tae-Bo craze for a few weeks and I even had the chance to try my hand at pole dancing. And, let me tell you, I have so much respect for the athleticism that is involved in the art. Hello, upper body strength! But, yes, keeping things fresh can work wonders. Challenge yourself to be open to unknown. Who knows, you may discover you’re better at a skill than you figured. Just get up, get out and take chance.
Sound off below: are any of you currently on your own fitness journey? If so, drop your girl some tips on how I can take things to the next level. What are your personal struggles? What would you like to improve on? Let me know. Until next time…
“Consistency is what transforms average into excellence.”
-Unknown
ESMESHA CAMPBELL - Lifestyle, Fashion Culture, and Beauty 