Fitness has become an increasingly popular topic in recent years, with many people striving to improve their physical health and achieve their fitness goals. However, it’s important to remember that your fitness journey is not about being better than someone else. In this blog post, we’ll explore why this mindset is problematic and how you can shift your focus to make fitness a more positive and fulfilling experience.

“Fitness is a journey towards self-improvement, not a race to beat others. Your only competition is the person you were yesterday.”

— Manoj Naharki

Few Things To Know:

• Firstly, comparing yourself to others can be detrimental to your mental health. When we constantly compare ourselves to others, we may feel inadequate, insecure, or discouraged. We might think that we’re not good enough or that we’ll never be able to reach our goals. This negative self-talk can create a vicious cycle that leads to anxiety, depression, and even physical health problems.
• Secondly, fitness is a personal journey that should be tailored to your own needs and preferences. What works for someone else may not work for you, and vice versa. For example, if you have a knee injury, you may not be able to do certain exercises that someone else can do with ease. Instead of focusing on what others are doing, focus on what you can do and what feels good for your body. This will help you stay motivated and make progress at your own pace.
• Thirdly, fitness should be about improving your overall health and well-being, not just your appearance. While it’s natural to want to look good and feel confident in your own skin, it’s important to remember that there are many benefits to exercise beyond aesthetics. Exercise can improve your mood, boost your energy levels, reduce stress and anxiety, and even prevent chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Focusing on these benefits rather than how you compare to others can help you develop a more positive relationship with exercise.

So, how can you shift your mindset to focus on your own fitness journey rather than comparing yourself to others? Here are some tips:

1. Set realistic goals: Instead of setting goals based on what others are doing, set goals that are achievable and relevant to your own life. For example, if you’re a busy parent, your goal might be to exercise for 30 minutes a day, three times a week.

2. Celebrate your progress: Don’t just focus on your end goal; celebrate the small victories along the way. Maybe you were able to run for an extra minute or lift a heavier weight. Celebrating these achievements can help you stay motivated and positive.

3. Find activities you enjoy: Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. Try different activities until you find something you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, hiking, or lifting weights. When you enjoy what you’re doing, you’re more likely to stick with it.

4. Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and remember that progress takes time. Don’t beat yourself up if you miss a workout or indulge in a treat. Instead, focus on getting back on track and continuing to make progress towards your goals.

In conclusion, your fitness journey is not about being better than someone else. Comparing yourself to others can be damaging to your mental health and hinder your progress. Instead, focus on your own journey, set realistic goals, celebrate your progress, find activities you enjoy, and practice self-compassion. By doing so, you can create a positive and fulfilling fitness experience that benefits both your physical and mental health.