Get With The PROGRAM!

Yo,

I just finished day 578 out of my 2,632 day workout challenge! Although there are plenty of reasons whey I've been able to stick with this challenge for so long, a FUNDAMENTAL reason that I've been able to stay CONSISTENT is that I've always followed some type of exercise PROGRAM from DAY 1.

The beautiful thing about exercise programs is that THEY. ARE. EVERYWHERE. It doesn't matter if your short term aspirations are to build power, increase strength, improve flexibility, get into bodybuilding etc...somebody has thought of it...somebody has created a program for it.

Exercise programs create a SYSTEMATIC METHOD to accomplish some type of goal. The method may be to progressively increase the weights you lift, to improve upon reps for time, or to increase your miles run per week...Whatever it is, GOOD programs are based on using some type of method to get you to reach a goal. This should be obvious...

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BUT

You might not realize:

1) Someone has put A LOT of conscious effort into creating the program.

2) Programs are a great way to keep yourself accountable. They usually require you to keep track of your performance to improve upon in future sessions.

3) If the program is produced by a company, the program has been vetted...A lot of money has gone into producing it so it probably works (that DOESN'T mean you're getting great VALUE, but it probably works).

4) Honestly, most programs work. If your goals align with the goals of a program AND you are consistent, you should see results.

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You simply aren't likely to get the same results with random workouts.

If your goals change (they WILL change at some point) all you have to do to CHANGE your PROGRAM. Find a program that aligns with your new goals.

Whenever my workouts become monotonous or I want to change things up, I peek at the 'Program check-in' below and go from there...

Program check-in

Do you still enjoy your current exercise program?

Did you find it was difficult to find time to squeeze in workouts?

How have you benefitted from your current workout program?

Compared to your current program, is there a workout program that you can get more VALUE out of in pursuit of your goals?

Have you given this program enough time (be honest)?

Based on your answers; If you still believe there is an alternative program that will benefit your goals, go for it!

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I've used some version of the program check-in to keep my workout FRESH! There's no need to stick to a crappy program just for the sake of doing it. It is important to keep your goals in mind. Remember WHY you started. Show up and...

Much Love,

Everyday Workout Man

P.S. I NEVER choose programs that are built on the premise of losing weight. Losing weight should be a by-product of the work you do towards reaching some other goal. There is a lot to be said here but I'll leave that for another blog. Peace.