The BetterU Challenge is rolling right along! It’s hard to believe we are already in our 4th week, a third of the way through. Yet it feels like we are just getting started.
Perhaps it’s because getting started on the road to fitness can be the hardest part of the journey. Those first steps can be scary and confusing. They can also be frustrating. Pounds lost, the number we get so wrapped up in, can be slow when you’re still trying to figure out where you’re going and how to get there. Habits don’t change quickly either. Developing new and healthier routines is an important task but visible results aren’t always immediate.
Instead it’s the subtle differences we start to notice in those first few weeks. Clients are always telling me how great they feel, how much more energy they have and how much better they are sleeping at night. Knees often start to hurt less. Food starts to feel more like fuel for life instead of a source of anxiety and fear.
The BetterU team is no different than anyone else. I wanted to share some of their thoughts about their first steps. I asked them what they liked and what they’ve been struggling with during the first weeks of the program.
I have really appreciated how these first steps seem very doable. In the past I have overwhelmed myself with what I need to do and then give up before I get much of any place. The hard part is I tend to be a little impatient want everything RIGHT NOW. – Janet
Before starting this I just didn’t have any motivation except disappointment when another week passed without doing anything. Now I get up every morning with something to do – exercise, swimming, yoga, walking – and I feel more energy than ever. The hardest part is not being able to do things I used to be able to do before I got so out of shape. I also need to seriously evaluate my diet. I have cut out sweets and have added a healthy breakfast, but with a family that prefers mashed potatoes and pot roast for dinner (and ice cream for desert). – Linda
The best part is finding the energy that I haven’t seen in years, and the worst part (also kinda good) is noticing that I have muscles I didn’t know existed… Because they are sore!! Lol. But a good sore. – Katie
The best part of the program for me has been realizing that I can work out for a complete hour. It has made me realize that I can do anything. I am impatient and want everything to move faster. – Lisa
The first steps made me know success is inevitable. The assessment itself was daunting but I didn’t let it get me down. This team approach just feels so right with so many supports in place. – Susan
Any of this sound familiar? I am sure it does and that’s normal.
- It’s normal to want it all now. But you have to remember being out of shape or overweight didn’t happen overnight. It won’t be reversed overnight.
- It’s normal to be a little sore. But you shouldn’t be so sore you can’t get out of bed. If you start slow and work your way up it will be manageable and go away in a day or two.
- It’s normal to be stronger with others. Support is so critical for this journey. Whether it’s a Facebook group or a workout buddy there is strength in numbers.
Everything they said and are experiencing is normal. It’s part of the process. These first weeks are hard but hopeful. But with a solid foundation the next 8 weeks will be full of victories, big and small. Stay tuned to hear more about their stories and their success. I know I can’t wait to see where the go from here.
