For some of us, being our own personal trainer can be daunting.
I, for one, rarely push as hard as I should if I’m working out on my own. Especially on those days when I’m really not in the mood (we’ve all been there, right?).
This is where having an accountability partner comes in so handy. Someone to cheer you on when you so dearly need it.
If you don’t have a close friend or family member able and willing to join you in your journey towards better heath fitness, all is not lost.
You have us!
OR
Use social media to connect with like minded people.
Sometimes just putting your goals out there for others to see is all the motivation and accountability we need.
Twitter and Facebook are both excellent places to share your health and fitness goals.
Say it out loud!
Proclaim your mission to the world.
Put notes on your fridge with short or long term goals: be it to lose 2 kilos a month or a photo of a favorite dress you long to fit into.
Use Facebook and twitter (or even email) to let others know what you are doing. You’ll be more likely to stick with a plan knowing friends and family will be checking on you.
If your trying to avoid unhealthy eating but don’t tell anyone, how can you expect to get the help and support you really need?
What we’ve done:
In years gone by my sister and I have emailed each other back and forth with our eating and workout plans. As well as sending weekly/daily progress reports.
Having told someone my sister I was going to workout made it like an appointment in my mind, one I didn’t want to miss because, to be honest, I didn’t want to disappoint or let her down.
Knowing she was sticking to her workouts was a huge motivation to me.
Maybe it’s my competitive nature but I didn’t want to be left behind.
Set a Specific Time
I personally find it really helpful to set specific times to workout. Block it out as you would a doctor’s appointment or any other meeting. That way your not leaving your workouts to chance or waiting to have extra time (we wish).
Then keep the appointment and check it off when you are finished.
I know, when I leave my workouts to chance, I often get to the end of the day and am hungry, tired (sometimes a little cranky) and don’t get my workout done.
This makes me well, to be honest, (possibly more than just) a little cranky!!
Making an appointment with myself, and having the accountability of letting someone else know my plans, helps me get the job done. Then I’m happier and less, er, irritable. That makes everyone happy.
For many accountability is one of the greatest keys to sticking with a workout program. Do you find accountability helpful?
Go for it! I’ll join in.