I know the secret to fitness. People pay me money to discover this secret but I’m going to give it to you for free. Applied consistently, it works every time. And it’s just two words so it’s easy to remember: Show Up.
That’s it. People who show up get fit. Those who don’t won’t. What did I mean by consistently? Show up 3 to 6 times per week. No more, no less.
Personally I’ve found CrossFit the most complete fitness program as it is the only one that develops all 10 general physical skills:
1. Cardiovascular respiratory endurance
2. Stamina (muscular endurance)
3. Strength
4. Flexibility
5. Speed
6. Power
7. Coordination
8. Accuracy
9. Agility
10. Balance
But if CrossFit is not your thing, don’t let that stop you. Anything is better than nothing. Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good. Do spin classes, yoga, Orange Theory, whatever. Just do something! Choose it and commit to it and show up 3-6 times per week. No. Matter. What!
Our culture is big on excuses like: “I don’t have enough time.” Here’s a solution:
Next time you don’t have the time to make it to the gym like you promised yourself you would, follow these simple directions:
1. Find a clear space of floor or ground
2. Set a timer to 4 minutes
3. Start the timer.
4. Do as many burpees as you can in 20 seconds (chest to the floor at the bottom, jumping arms overhead at the top)
5. Rest for 10 seconds
6. Repeat for 8 rounds (total 4 minutes)
That’s it. You’re done. You showed up! If you really tried hard during each 20 second interval, you will reap the fitness benefits. In only 4 minutes. And I know you can find 4 minutes in your day at least 3 times per week. (Notice how it didn’t cost anything either?)
Now that you know the secret, there’s no excuse not to achieve your fitness goals. It don’t take money. It don’t take time. It just takes showing up.
Now, go get fit and enjoy the feeling of accomplishment you get from following through on your commitment!