Internal conflict is one of the biggest hurdles many face when it comes to consistent training. At CrossFit South Denver, I’ve had conversations with over 2,200 individuals, and one recurring theme stands out:
A) People who are clear on why they come to the gym and feel comfortable in their routine.
B) People who are searching for the motivation to even show up.
Often, the easiest way to derail consistency is by failing to define what you want out of your gym experience. Without a clear goal, it’s easy to make excuses.
The reality is, if you live in a developed society, you have access to tools and opportunities that can help you achieve almost anything you want—within reason. But it all starts with defining what you want. That clarity is the foundation of your journey.
It’s also essential to remind yourself of your why regularly and to reassess it as life evolves. Humans are complex and ever-adapting, which means your goals and motivations will likely shift over time. However, your basic needs for health and longevity remain constant.
Below are two articles that outline the minimum and maximum exercise guidelines:
The Takeaway
According to these sources, adults need 300-500 minutes of exercise per week—this includes activities like walking—to significantly reduce the risk of early death. With life expectancy averaging ~76 years for men and ~81 years for women, this is a bare minimum.
So, within those 300-500 minutes, ask yourself: What do I want to achieve? Not sure? Start by showing up to the gym four times a week and let the process guide you.
Through my conversations with those hesitant about CrossFit, common concerns arise:
- “Am I the type of person who works out this hard?”
- “Is this methodology right for me?”
- “Am I someone who works out at all?”
These doubts are normal, but they don’t define you. Don’t let societal norms or external opinions dictate your health and fitness choices. Relying on others to determine your needs can lead to an unhealthy, fragile, and injury-prone life.
Decide for yourself what you want, and take the steps to make it happen.
