- The journey to a leaner and stronger you!
- Don’t go it alone–build a support group.
Recently at the start of a personal training session, one of my fitness clients said, “It’s hard to make healthy eating choices when I’m out with co-workers and friends…”
Now, I’ve heard variations of this statement by many of my clients over the years. Usually, it goes something like this…
It’s hard for me to make healthy eating choices while I’m…
- On vacation
- At a party
- Out with a loved one
- Out with my family
- Enjoying the holidays
- Going on a flight / trip
Does this sound like you? Have you, or those you care about, been in these situations before?
Most of us struggle with healthy eating habits in social settings. When co-workers, friends, or loved ones ask us tough questions, it’s so much easier to just give in rather than facing the onslaught of doubters and worriers…
“Why are you passing on the pancakes?”
“Who eats a burger without the bun?”
“C’mon, it won’t hurt you to have just one (drink / cupcake / insert-your-greatest-weakness-here)!”
Giving in to these social pressures is called situational eating. You’ve heard of a social drinker? Well this person could be referred to as a “social eater”.
Now, if you’re living a long-lasting Rock Fit lifestyle, rather than trying diet and exercise for the umpteenth time, then you have nothing to be ashamed of. I feel your pain and am also guilty of giving in to temptation on more than one occasion.
If you’re a social eater, raise your hand and say I…
” I !!! “
Good! Now there are three things that you’ll need to address these situations:
- Preparation
- Communication
- Support Group
Who’s got your back when it comes to health & fitness?
What’s in a Support Group?
Your support group is comprised of the people that stand by your side when making health & fitness choices. This is where having a Rock Fit Coach and Personal Trainer really comes in handy. A good health & fitness professional will keep you accountable to your goals and serve as a constant reminder as to why you need to master certain health & fitness habits.
Beyond your fitness trainer and coach, there are also other key people in your life that could, and hopefully should, be in your support group.
This could be your spouse or loved one, a parent, a brother or a sister, or a great friend that has your overall well being in mind. The key is to get these people on board with your health & fitness plan early on. To do that, you’ve got to communicate with them what your fitness goals are and why you are pursuing them. Express your goals and motivation to them in an honest and confident way and see how they respond.
Prepare yourself by envisioning yourself talking to a good friend who doesn’t know about your latest health & fitness goals, yet. Or–even better–pretend you’re talking to an acquaintance, someone you’re not buddy-buddy with, but who will likely ask you why it is you’re eating or drinking a certain way.
You could say something as simple as, “Thanks for asking! You know, I’m on a great health & fitness program and I’m training to (insert goals here). So, I’d love to have your support in helping me reach my goals.”
The person you communicate this to may be taken aback by your candidness. And, you might be surprised by their reply.
“Do yourself a favor and join a group of like-minded people.”
The next time a friend, co-worker, or loved one questions your eating habits, take it as an opportunity to see if you can get them on board your success train by inviting them to join your support group.
When it comes to your health & fitness choices, remember…
Those who matter don’t mind. And, those who mind, don’t matter.
Ken Diaz, MS, NSCA-CPT, FMS Founder, Rock Fit