I was today years old before I realised that I am a consistent exerciser.
You might think I’m pointing out the obvious…But I honestly could have said, if you asked me 6 months ago, that I was inconsistent in my exercise.
I’ve only recently realised that it’s because I believed ‘Consistency’ meant showing up consistently, consistently. In other words, showing up perfectly, over and over again.
When it comes to exercise, I have great weeks and not so great weeks. I have great months and not so great months. I have even had great seasons, and not so great seasons.
I’m sure you can relate.
But when I zoom right out, I realise I have exercised in some form since school.
I’ve played sport. I’ve lifted weights. I’ve run. I’ve walked. I’ve done gym classes. Not all at once, and rarely have I been ‘perfect’ for more than a few weeks at a time.
But I really believe that assessing consistency requires a LONG TERM, zoomed out view. It is not the same as having a perfect week.
Being able to do all of the workouts you planned to do, or that you would ideally like to do is great. But do you now what’s more important?
Not writing off a whole week because of a few bad days.
Picking up where you left off, without berating yourself.
Allowing yourself rest when your body and mind need it.
Trusting in yourself that you have the tools to get back on the wagon when you fall off.
With this perspective would you say you have been a ‘consistent exerciser’ ? Or even consistently active, over the long term?