Have You Become a Fitness Junkie?
It is possible to have too much of a good thing and it is possible to be addicted to exercise. The line between a person who exercises for the health of it and one who is an exercise fanatic can easily become blurred. Here are a few reasons why. Exercise is a widely promoted health behavior, is recommended to combat stress and other mental health problems and has many psychological and physical benefits. One could become confused as to how much exercise is healthy and where to draw the line.
Deep down we all have a hunger that needs feeding. Some people choose to fill that need with exercise and a lot of it. This hunger craves to be filled on a daily basis. Too often we purposefully ignore our deep needs and feelings. We try our best to cover them up with (in this case) exessive activity.
Exercise without limits can cause a person to lack adequate rest. In order for you to start enjoying more balance here are some quick fixes to help you retrain how you will get your need for that ‘high’ met.
Develop long term lifestyle changes that stick by…
Aiming for mini-changes. You will be able to sustain the momentum this way!
Making changes that feel easy. For example, cut your workouts down by 20 minutes or try on the new belief that you will not become a blimp if you don’t work out over the weekend. People will still love and accept you! You will feel happy with your accomplishment if it’s easy and you will want to keep going.
What mini-changes do you want to see take place in your life? What type of a change feels easy to you? I wish you all the best as you start forming healthy habits that stick.
Keep Shining,
Amy
Amy Englemark is a Self Care Expert, unique-like a breath of fresh air in a stressed out, overworked society. She shows people why staying healthy is vital and guides them to establish and maintain positive changes in their lives in a stress-free way! As a dynamic, sought-after speaker, writer and founder of Amy Englemark Coaching, Amy Englemark is passionate about helping people develop guilt free self care choices and create sustainable lifestyle changes.
Comments
I injured my back several years ago and when I couldn’t get my 6 days of running in, I really struggled emotionally. I am better now at variety and knowing that some days are going to be less active than others. I’ve found my healthy balance 🙂
Yay! I’m happy you’ve found your healthy balance Ruby. It sure feels good to be able to accept when your day doesn’t go as planned. Then, to be able to let go and plan for tomorrow, that’s the next step. xo Amy
I had problems with that years back. It was hours and hours a day non stop to try and keep my depression in check. I had a severe wake up call and know when to stop now. This is a great message.
Wow Heather, Thanks for being so open and sharing. I really appreciate your vulnerability. What’s helping you with your depression now, if you don’t mind me asking. I’d love to hear, Amy
I can see how this could become a problem. My issue is trying to get started on the path to a better “physically fit” me. I will know what issues to watch out for. Thanks!
Hi Michelle,
Taking the time to figure out what your top three or four values are will help you make time for what’s immportant to you and also help you figure out how best to start getting more fit. I’d love to help. Feel free to contact me. Love, Amy
I used to be a fitness junkie! When I was overseas I probably worked out in some way every day. After a while if I missed going to the gym I felt so out of whack. Eventually, I was able to pull back and went about 4 times a week before coming home.
Thanks for sharing Brianna!
I’m curious how you felt when you ‘pulled back’ from working out so much and had a little more free time… Amy
This is a fantastic post and makes excellent points. I especially appreciate the point about not using exercise to cover deeper issues. I also love your last point about how people will still love and appreciate you. It’s all about the big picture!!!
Hi Tiana, Yes, life is all about the big picture. The trick is to keep our eyes open wide enough to see it! Thanks for your comment…Much appreciated! Amy