Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how you can climb it, go through it, or walk around it.

What does that even mean? Realistically. Let’s explore how you can overcome obstacles and maintain committed during your fitness and wellness journey.

Embarking on a fitness journey requires more than just a desire for change. It requires more than the idea that you want it bad.

It demands an unwavering commitment to overcome obstacles along the way.

Achieving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle involves facing challenges head-on and staying dedicated to your goals, even when the going gets tough.

The journey is not at all linear and being comfortable with that is key.

One of the key aspects of commitment during a fitness journey is establishing clear and realistic goals. Whether your aim is to lose weight, build muscle, or improve overall wellbeing, having smart goals provides a clear road map for your journey.

S Specific

M Measurable

A Achievable

R Relevant

T Time-bound

Committing to these goals means understanding that progress may be gradual, and that plateaus and setbacks are a natural part of the process.

Obstacles often come in various forms, ranging from physical limitations and time constraints to mental and emotional barriers.

Overcoming these challenges requires resilience and a willingness to adapt.

For instance, if a busy schedule interferes with regular workouts, committing to shorter, more intense sessions or incorporating physical activity into daily routines becomes crucial, a suggestion I offer my clients more times than none.

Mental strength is a cornerstone of commitment in fitness and wellness. As my former track coach used to say, “ … mental tenacity is important”.

Overcoming self-doubt, fear of failure, or the temptation to give in to unhealthy habits requires a positive mindset.

Developing mental resilience involves developing a sense of discipline, focusing on the benefits of your efforts, and acknowledging small victories along the way.

Slow progress is still progress and we should acknowledge and remember this as we journey.

Social support plays a vital role in maintaining committed during a fitness journey.

Sharing your goals with friends, family, or a workout buddy not only provides accountability but also creates a support system for those challenging moments.

Connecting with like-minded individuals through fitness communities or online platforms can offer encouragement and valuable insights, fostering a sense of camaraderie.

Consistency is another key factor in overcoming obstacles. Establishing a routine and sticking to it, even on days when motivation is low, reinforces commitment.

Consistency builds habits, turning positive behaviours into second nature and making it easier to navigate challenges.

It's important to recognise that setbacks are part of any fitness journey.

Plateaus, injuries, or unexpected life events may momentarily derail progress. True commitment involves resilience in the face of adversity, the ability to reassess and adjust goals, and a determination to keep moving forward.

Celebrating successes, no matter how small, reinforces commitment by highlighting the positive outcomes of your efforts.

Whether it's reaching a weight-loss milestone, achieving a personal best in a workout, or simply feeling more energised and confident, acknowledging these accomplishments helps fuel motivation and dedication.

Commitment during your fitness journey is a dynamic and multifaceted quality that involves setting realistic, Smart goals, cultivating mental resilience, building a strong support system, maintaining consistency, and embracing a positive, strong mindset.

By navigating obstacles with determination and adaptability, you can transform your fitness aspirations into a sustainable and fulfilling lifestyle.

No obstacle is too high if you are prepared in all of the above aspects.

• Dre Hinds is a personal trainer, aerobic and yoga instructor and fitness “addict” with more than 20 years’ experience. She specialises in nutrition, weight and sprint training, operating out of HindsSight Fitness and Wellness at the Berkeley Cultural Centre. Contact her on: absbydre@gmail.com or 599-6683. Find her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram under @Absbydre