Rising Above: Overcoming Setbacks on Your Fitness Journey
Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. As the owner of DSC Osprey, Florida, I’ve had my fair share of unexpected challenges since opening our doors in August. From weathering a tropical storm to facing two hurricanes – the last of which took half our roof and several large windows – I’ve learned a thing or two about overcoming setbacks.
Here’s the thing: the principles that have helped me push through these obstacles are the same ones that can help you overcome the hurdles in your fitness journey. Whether you’re dealing with career demands, family obligations, weight gain, loss of fitness, or injury, the path forward is paved with the same stones.
Lessons from the Storm
1. Cultivate Gratitude
When half our roof was torn away, it would have been easy to focus on what we’d lost. Instead, I chose to be thankful for what remained. Our community was safe, and we still had a space to rebuild.
How does this applies to you? When facing setbacks in your fitness journey, focus on what you can do rather than what you can’t. Grateful for the ability to take a walk? Start there. Thankful for ten minutes of free time? Use it for a quick workout.
2. Flood Your Mind with Positivity
In the aftermath of the hurricanes, I immersed myself in motivational content – YouTube videos, TED talks, uplifting books, and positive social media. This wasn’t about ignoring reality; it was about fueling my mind with the energy needed to face that reality.
How does this applies to you? When work travel disrupts your routine or family obligations eat into your gym time, don’t let negative self-talk take over. Fuel your mind with positive affirmations, success stories of people who’ve overcome similar challenges, and motivational content that reminds you why you started this journey.
3. Prioritize Self-Care
Perhaps the most crucial step in bouncing back was taking care of myself. Meditation, fresh air, exercise, and nourishing food became non-negotiable parts of my day.
How does this applies to you? Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. If injury has sidelined you from your usual routine, focus on what you can do. Can you practice gentle stretching? Work on your nutrition? Meditate to reduce stress? Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t just about physical exercise.
Your Personal Comeback Story
Now, let’s talk about you. Maybe you’ve gained some weight back, or a hectic work schedule has kept you from the gym. Perhaps an injury has thrown you off course, or family responsibilities have squeezed your ‘me-time’ down to nothing. These are setbacks, yes, but they’re not the end of your story.
Here’s the playbook for your comeback:
- Start with Gratitude: List three things about your body or health that you’re thankful for, no matter how small.
- Reframe Your Mindset: Instead of “I don’t have time to work out,” try “I’m choosing to prioritize my health by finding creative ways to stay active.”
- Take Small Steps: Can’t do an hour-long workout? Start with 10 minutes. Every bit counts.
- Adapt and Overcome: If injury prevents certain exercises, work with the DSC coaches to find safe alternatives. This is literally why we exist! If travel disrupts your routine, learn bodyweight exercises you can do anywhere.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Did you choose a salad over fast food? That’s a win. Took the stairs instead of the elevator? Celebrate it.
- Connect with Community: Share your struggles and victories with fellow gym-goers. You’re not alone in this journey.
Remember, setbacks are not failures; they’re opportunities for comebacks. Just as our gym community came together to rebuild after the hurricanes, you have the strength within you to rebuild your fitness routine, one small step at a time.
Your journey isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence. It’s not about never falling; it’s about always getting back up. And know this: just as I’m committed to reopening our doors after every storm, we at DSC are committed to supporting you through every up and down of your fitness journey.
So, what’s your next step? Whatever it is, take it. Your comeback story starts now.