This whole Covid-19 mess has really given me insight into how important consistency is in regard to seeing results. When quarantine happened and people were stuck at home without access to the gym, it definitely separated those who were committed to training and those who were not. I know that some people had more obstacles to overcome than others, but the devoted ones found a way to get it done. The discrepancy, after quarantine, was apparent between those who stayed consistent and those who were not.
Merriam-Webster defines consistent as “marked by harmony, regularity, or steady continuity : free from variation or contradiction.” I think of this definition as someone or something being unwavering and steadfast in their routine. They don’t change, even in the midst of strong opposition. A great demonstration in the sports world of consistency would have to be Cal Ripken’s consecutive games played streak. The shortstop / third baseman for the Baltimore Orioles played an absolutely mind-boggling 2,632 games without taking a day off. Properly nicknamed, “The Iron Man,” Ripken played 16 years without missing a game. In regard to consistency, he said that he had to be stubborn sometimes about playing when he was struggling and people called him selfish as they thought he was putting himself before the team. However, his convictions drove him to endure through the criticism. He said, “I’d recommend you have that sense of conviction. Be stubborn about your athletic career, be stubborn about your work ethic, be stubborn about your position. Be a little territorial about that and protect your position. Those things really helped me go out on a daily basis.”
I think Cal Ripken’s quote is highly applicable to those desiring to be consistent with their health and fitness endeavors. It speaks volumes as to the conviction needed to stick with your plan even in the midst of opposition, whether it be from family, friends, resources or some other impediment. Honestly, I think more people need to be stubborn when it comes to their wellness goals. I know I’m biased because I’m in the profession, but you can’t put a price tag on your health. If you need to spend more time and money to get the job done on a regular basis, I certainly think it would be agreeable to do so. This doesn’t mean going to the extreme and blowing off important dates and holidays to get a workout in or destroying your budget to buy every supplement from Vitamin Shoppe. Please be a responsible and discerning adult. However, you do need to be protective of your health and be your own chief advocate.
What, then, are some practical ways to help stay consistent in the pursuit of your health and fitness ambitions? Here are some tips:
- Have a PLAN (plan what the next day will look like in advance)
- Settle for quick and efficient workouts when restrained for time
- Hire a personal trainer or tell a friend to help keep you accountable
- Do food prep or hire a meal service
- Prioritize sleep (finish that movie tomorrow!)
- Buy miscellaneous equipment to use at home when you can’t make it to the gym (Bands, balls, dumbbells, etc)
- Spend $ on recovery modalities (massage, chiropractor, cryotherapy, etc) especially if you are older
- Set goals and revisit them daily in order to stay motivated
Overall, these are just a few ideas to help you stay consistent with your goals. Please let me know if you have any more thoughts as to how to stay in constant pursuit of your goals. Thanks for reading and as always, SETTLE DOWN SLACKERS!!!!!
Sources:
“Cal Ripken Jr. emphasizes consistency and conviction at Northeast Wisconsin Sports Awards.” USA Today High School Sports, 15 May, 2016, https://usatodayhss.com/2016/cal-ripken-jr-emphasizes-consistency-and-conviction-to-northeast-wisconsin-sports-awards