As I reflect on a weekend I just spent with clients and friends in North Carolina I remember why I do what I do..... being a personal trainer you are a role model for health and fitness but many times you become a friend.
The Honest Truth
While hanging out with friends this weekend we talked about how tough it can be to maintain your health and fitness. I shared with them that it isn't always easy for trainers either. One thing that I have always told my clients is that you need to have balance. But everybody needs variety as well. I tell my clients to not be too hard on themselves. If getting fit and staying fit were easy everyone would be healthy and fit.
Recently, I have had a scare with my health and truth be told, it's not over. But this is the first time in my entire life that I've had to think about what could happen if I didn't stay healthy and take care of myself.
What Do You Control?
There are some things that are out of our control and there are some things that are in our control. One of the things we can control is our diet and our choice to workout. No, it's not easy. It takes work
Find Balance
But sometimes, like this weekend for me, you have to give yourself a break and enjoy a cinnamon roll or some wine or some chips. I have had all of the above in the last 30 days celebrating my 50th birthday. And yes, I will admit it, I do feel a little bad. And yes I'm going to get back on the bandwagon, but reflecting back on all of it I think I needed to give myself a break. I needed to not be constantly thinking about my weight, what I eat, what I drink or how I look.
Be Kind To Yourself
That's not why people love me. They love me for me and that hasn't changed. I have so enjoyed getting to know my clients and I have become really good friends with many of them. I am real when I am with them. I am never fake. I believe is why my clients still come to me. They don't want to get yelled at when they make a mistake and eat something unhealthy. They don't want to get yelled at or feel bad about themselves if they've gained a few pounds. Because I am honest with them they know I understand taking some time off, adding variety and adding a little balance.
Too Much Of A Good Thing
We all have those times when we need to let our hair down. Now, don't get me wrong, we should keep it all in check and not get out-of-control. We have all worked hard to stay fit and healthy and don't want to lose that. But remember, balance is the key. Too much of a good thing is still too much of a good thing.