Why Fitness Programs may not be Working for You: 6 Reasons

You know the guilt of taking gym memberships and not showing up or deciding with a friend that we will go for a walk and calling it off the last minute. That was me – many times over. I would always make fitness goals but never meet even a fraction of them. I always thought I lack the drive or the basic fitness level to start exercising or more. 

In retrospect, one of the big reasons was that I didn’t find the right reasons to take care of myself. Also, I needed someone to help me set small goals to establish my belief in myself.

Almost all of us know we should be exercising, eating right, thinking right, etc. However, at times we find it difficult to act – especially with young children and work responsibilities. Here are 6 reasons why you might be quitting health programs despite all your intent.

About me: I am a certified Health coach and coach women to manage health with busy, stressful schedules. My coaching page with testimonials is here.

1. Lack of a Personalized Support

One fitness plan cannot work for all of us. Not only because we all have different body types, but also because we all have different circumstances, priorities, stress levels. Therefore, a fitness plan that worked for others, might not work for us.

2. Feeling less Autonomy

If you feel less autonomy in deciding a fitness plan – in other words, if you feel less say in the plan, the fitness routine might not last for long. If working with a coach, it is important to spend time discussing your priorities and preferences before setting goals.

3. Setting Big, Unachievable Goals

Setting goals that cannot be achieved and having no checkpoints can be a recipe for disappointment. And disappointment is the first step for quitting. Going slowly and steadily can help make habits stick.

4. Lack of Accountability

Not putting enough thought into setting accountability can make it difficult to keep going on. Accountability that doesn’t work can be unrealistic, not compassionate, or not practical. It is important to be flexible in this regard too.

5. No Clear ‘Why’

Instead of understanding our ‘why for the wellness goals,’ if we jump directly into implementing a routine, there are chances that any other deadline throws us off our wellness plan.

6. Not addressing health holistically

Good health isn’t just about exercising and eating right. It is also about lifestyle, attitude, and stress management. If we address only one pillar of health, any change can be short-lived. Addressing all pillars systematically can help us go a long way.

Please remember that a good coach keeps your autonomy and doesn’t direct you-rather guides you to achieve YOUR goals. She should guide you into forming healthy habits, that stick! My 1:1 & group Wellness Program is now open for enrollment! Join now for evidence-based wellness coaching, where I provide science-backed information for the health aspects, ask open-ended questions and partner with you until you achieve YOUR health goals!