How To Create A Successful Fitness Program
There’s More to Creating a Fitness Plan Than People Realize
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, most people in the U.S. already feel maxed out. Time, energy, and money are limited resources, and many are juggling them just to get through the day. So, when someone decides they’re fed up with their fitness and wants to take on a new workout plan, it’s not as simple as lacing up sneakers and hitting the gym.
A successful fitness plan requires you to think critically about where these three resources—time, energy, and money—will come from.
1. Time
If you’re not currently working out but want to start, the first question to ask yourself is: Where will this time come from?
Time is a zero-sum game. If you’re adding something new to your schedule, something else has to give. Are you willing to sacrifice TV time, scrolling on social media, or even an extra 30 minutes of sleep? It’s not just about finding time but consciously deciding what you’re willing to trade for it.
2. Energy
Working out doesn’t just take time—it also takes energy. If you’re already feeling drained at the end of the day, it’s important to evaluate where your energy is currently going. Ask yourself:
• What am I doing now that drains my energy?
• Can I minimize or eliminate activities that leave me feeling depleted?
Alternatively, consider ways to boost your energy reserves. This might mean prioritizing better sleep, improving your nutrition, or managing stress more effectively. Sometimes, it’s not about cutting things out but about adding habits that energize you for the new commitment.
3. Money
While some fitness activities are free, many come with a cost—gym memberships, fitness classes, equipment, or even the gas to drive to a park. If you’re on a tight budget, you’ll need to figure out where the funds will come from.
Are you willing to reallocate money from other areas, such as dining out or entertainment? Or could you find creative ways to work out for free, like using bodyweight exercises at home or running outdoors?
A Personal Example: Prioritizing Time With My Daughter
This idea of balancing resources applies to all aspects of life, not just fitness. For instance, I’ve recently decided I want to spend more quality time with my seven-year-old daughter. I want to create core memories with her, but to do so, I’ve had to carefully consider how to free up time, energy, and money.
• Time: I’ve realized that I need to cut back on mindless scrolling or other low-value activities to make space for meaningful experiences with her.
• Energy: To have the energy to be present and engaged, I’ve started going to bed earlier, eating healthier, and planning my days better to reduce stress.
• Money: While some activities we enjoy are free, others—like trampoline parks or roller-skating rinks—come with a price tag. I’ve had to reallocate funds, cut back in other areas, or dip into savings to make these experiences possible.
The Takeaway
Whether it’s fitness, family, or any new goal, success starts with a plan. And a good plan requires understanding that time, energy, and money are finite resources. It’s not enough to set a goal—you need to figure out what you’re willing to sacrifice or change to make it happen.
So before jumping into your next big endeavor, take a moment to evaluate your resources. Ask yourself:
• What am I willing to trade to make this work?
• How can I optimize my time, energy, and money to align with my goals?
The answers to these questions might just be the key to creating a sustainable, successful plan—whether it’s for fitness, family, or anything else that matters most to you.
Tags: #fitness, goals, health, workout
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