Since I'm a personal trainer, I have clients ask me how I have the motivation to workout consistently. I usually burst out with a laugh and respond with “I'm human just like you, don't be fooled.” I still have my moments I'm not "feeling" a workout or it can be difficult to find time. I had one of those moments recently and wanted to share the experience and how it transcended into something bigger and better.

It was a Sunday morning and after a long week/weekend of work, I was looking forward to de-stressing and having "me" time. I was craving a good run so badly, more mentally than physically.  As part of my usual routine I headed to the gym with my mom and sister. I was all geared up with new music downloaded, hair pulled back, and headphones plugged in. I started to run and I couldn't help but notice I was feeling sluggish. I wasn't at peace, and my mind was all over the place. I was fixated on my surroundings, like how my pants were bothering me as I ran and how I couldn't fall into my stride. I looked down at the treadmill and realized it had only been about two minutes. Those two minutes were a painful two minutes as all I could think about was how I was going to last three miles at this rate.

I desperately wanted to stop and walk; but, I was determined to run. I wasn't going to give in and let myself down. As I am trying to find my groove, the song that plays next is one of my favorite running songs, and it never fails to put a little fire under my you-know-what. I turned the volume up and tried to get lost in the music. It was still a little touch and go for a while, and then out of nowhere, it all came together. It was beautiful thing, as I fell into my stride, sweat started to pour, endorphins were pumping through my body, and my mind wandered off. A huge smile came across my face accompanied with a sigh of relief as I finally made it to the mental and physical place I had been dreaming about. Running made me feel free, empowered, and unstoppable. At that moment, I remembered one of the main reasons why I wanted to be a personal trainer. I wanted to help people see things through and not throw in the towel too quickly. I know there will be days or weeks that it'll be difficult to stay motivated, but still show up. Showing up is the hardest part and from there with a little patience you'll find your place. I promise you'll never regret taking time for your well-being.

So, when you are having one of those days remember to take a deep breath and get yourself dressed.

-J