We make an effort to check in with members every week, and a comment we have been hearing a lot lately is “I miss lifting!”, or “I miss working out!”. You’re not alone, we (the staff) are also feeling some serious gym FOMO.
With that said, the current state restrictions prevent us from using the gym’s physical space for lifting, and most of us have minimal space and equipment at home. So what are we to do?
Despite these challenges and frustrations, there is an opportunity to improve your long-term strength and fitness by leveling up your mindset. Today I will give you a few actionable things you can do right now that will have your body thanking you later.
But It’s So Hard to Workout!
Let’s be honest, the current situation sucks. Now that we have that out of the way, I challenge you: Consider that the current COVID-19 environment is simply the most recent and extreme barrier or “reason” that could be used to justify a lack of exercise.
Although being told to stay at home seems like a reasonable excuse not to work out, fundamentally it’s not any different than having a busy work schedule, traveling a lot, or experiencing a change in your finances. All of these “reasons” are things our minds use as a protection mechanism so we don’t have to feel too bad about breaking a commitment to ourselves.
The Psychology of Being Fit
They may sound similar, but there is an important difference between “getting fit”, and “being fit”. The first describes a series of actions that are designed to achieve an outcome. The second describes a set of values that affects how you make choices.
Fit people make choices differently. They exercise when it’s not convenient, choose healthier foods more frequently, and dedicate time in their schedule for themselves. Year in, year out, regardless of circumstances. Why? Because when you become a “fit person”, fitness is a part of your value system. And your values determine your identity.
This identity can be created. The reason we coach mindset just as much as we do exercise, is we want you to complete and solidify this journey from “wanting to get fit” to “becoming fit” to “being fit” to “being a fit person”. Completing this journey is the key to lifelong fitness.
“Growth and Comfort Do Not Coexist” – Ginni Rometti
I get it, it’s hard right now. I have had weeks where I wasn’t as consistent as I wanted to be, days where I had to dig deep to work out, and days where I failed.
But here’s the thing, if you can build commitment to your fitness during a pandemic, when nearly every gym worldwide is closed, when our entire way of life is disrupted, then what could possibly stop you in the future?
No one will judge if your fitness slides during the stay at home order, but on the other hand, you could turn into Kate, who is crushing workouts 5 days a week, eating healthy and making even faster progress toward her goals since stay at home orders started.
Why risk wasting this time when you could be building this mindset into your life?
If you’re already on a good path, awesome job and keep it up! But if you could benefit from a nudge, here are a few things you can do right now.
Start an At-Home Workout Program
Foundry has you covered with a comprehensive virtual training program that is fun and challenging to do, right in your living room! We offer three class times per day, personalized instruction, and follow-up accountability from one of our coaches.
You can even receive a 1-week trial!
Work on Your Nutrition
Eating well during a quarantine is challenging, but good habits built now will translate into faster results in the future. Most people have a general idea of which foods are healthy or unhealthy, but have trouble sticking to it.
Foundry Nutrition Coaching is a combination of education, habit building, and accountability that empowers you to make better choices. In turn, you are able to sustainably lose body fat, build strength, and generally feel better. Plus, you’ll build a strong immune system to help you stay healthy.
To learn more, complete our online questionnaire and we will set up a free 20-min call with one of our coaches!
Get Outside
As the weather improves, getting outside for a run or some exercise in the park is good for the body and the soul. You could do this on your own, but it’s more fun and effective with a coach and other peoples. We host socially distanced workouts each Saturday in Skinner Park in the West Loop, included in our virtual fitness membership.
For more information, see our page on online fitness and virtual classes.