Bringing a New Mindset to Fitness

Written by Anne Bachmann, flyhigh and flyfusion instructor

“Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.”

In the beginning of December 2017, I had a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. Having a surgery that left me unable to exercise for 2-4 weeks had me feeling overwhelmed to return to Fly. I couldn’t wait to get back into the community and the workouts, but the process of regaining strength I had lost and reaching personal fitness goals seemed insurmountable.

There were also thoughts of comparison creeping into my mind. What if I don’t keep up with everyone in class? What if I need longer breaks? These thoughts came from a place of fear – a fear of being uncomfortable. I don’t think I’m alone in letting these thoughts creep into your mind and take root.  

For me, I needed to push these thoughts aside and look fear in the face. Each workout is yours and yours alone. Comparison does nothing to get you closer to your goals. Everyone is at a different place in their fitness journey. The important thing is to lock in to what drives you and to not allow distractions to pull you from your path.

Sometimes when we set goals, we focus on things that sound awesome to accomplish without first consulting our own values. When we understand why these goals support your values, it allows the goals to take root in your mind, roots that dig deeper than those from fear. When I returned to my fitness goals, I had to realign my mindset on exercise. What are things about exercise that I value, outside of reaching my fitness goals, that result from me getting to the gym every day? Here’s what I uncovered:

1. To be grateful. Being able to exercise is a gift. I always try to bring a positive attitude and treat it as one.
2. To be less anxious. Working out helps to clear my mind of the clutter or negative self talk.
3. To build confidence. Each day I have the opportunity to leave Fly proud of myself for a finishing a tough workout, meeting new people, or helping someone with their own journey.
4. To improve my immune system! Just 30 minutes of moderate exercise can help strengthen your immune system and fight off illness.
5. To feel powerful, strong, and prepared to take on anything life throws at me.

Everyone has different reasons for coming to Fly, but it’s important to pause for a moment and identify yours. The mindset you bring to exercise could change your entire experience. Whatever your values or goals, being part of our fitness community means that we are supporting you in your process, whatever that may be.