The Pain of Gain: Exercise, Part 3

The old adage, 'no pain, no gain,' has been disregarded as false just as often and sincerely as regarded as gospel. When I work with health coaching clients I'm very up-front about the difficulties of changing one's habits. Some "pain" will be involved.  In this blog I will address the pain of peer pressure and self-image as it relates to exercise.

It is not uncommon for some people to experience emotional pain as they begin to work with their bodies in ways that friends, coworkers and family members are not.  There might be some pushback, especially if your efforts toward health are perceived as threatening to those who are not ready to make changes. The reality is that friction in these relationships might cause some short term discomfort.  Best advice: Acknowledge that your feelings are a little hurt and you are disappointed in their lack of support, and intentionally focus on the other ways they bring joy into your life.  Over time you'll likely connect with a new set of acquaintances at your fitness center who will completely understand your motivations and support your efforts.

Some people avoid the gym or exercise/yoga classes, or doing exercise in public, like walking or running, because of a poor self image.  Reality check:  Shame about one's body is painful. But that pain is there whether you're active or not.  A big part of taking back your health is addressing a negative body image. Best advice:  The truth is that exercise is an essential way you can help your body deal with inflammation that drives weight gain and chronic disease. Because you have chose to significantly increase your physical activity you have chosen not to be a victim to the vicious cycle of inflammation and weight gain/difficulty in weight loss/development of or healing from chronic disease. Celebrate every workout as a way in which you are taking responsibility for your own health and wellness. Be proud of yourself for putting yourself out there; be very proud.

Bottom line:  Life is a series of tradeoffs.  Getting physically fit means trading comfort and comfort food for a longer and more joyful life. Good health is not just waiting for you; it will not 'catch up' to you one of these days. If you want to keep it or if you want to reclaim it, you will have to do the hard it work that is required. Its the sweetest pain I know.