Why can't you find a health and fitness program that works?

I was once asked, “I’ve tried many regimens from many fitness gurus. Will I ever achieve fitness nirvana?”

Firstly, you don’t want fitness nirvana, you just want fitness. Nirvana is the absence of suffering, desire, or sense of self. Philosophically, these are bad goals. But that’s a different topic. What you want is sustainable, satisfying fitness.

What sort of program can provide this? Here’s what to look for:

  1. The program must include a nutritional component.

  2. The program must include an exercise component.

  3. The program must include lifestyle considerations such as stress or sleep.

  4. You must follow the rules of the program with at least 80% accuracy.

  5. You must adhere to the program for a sufficient amount of weeks to observe change (minimum 4–6 weeks).

Missing any one of these will create a situation that does not provide sustainable, satisfying fitness results.

If all five of these conditions are met without success, then there is a problem. Here are three possible issues:

  1. The program could be poorly written, although it is unlikely to be such a travesty that you get no results at all.

  2. You’re a liar about how well you followed the rules. But surely this is not the case.

  3. You’re just a bit too gracious in your recollection of how well you followed the rules. This is most likely the case.

I would encourage you to reflect upon these five conditions. Any decent program will cover the first three, and even if it isn’t perfect you should be able to get decent results.

However, of the five, the last two are up to you. Since this is the reality, you must recognize that even a theoretically perfect program will not help you. You’ve got to figure out how to get it together yourself.

When I work with clients online or in-person, my goal is to provide realistic steps and the accountability needed for consistent adherence. When selecting the best regimen for yourself, make sure you or your coach have this in mind.

Feel free to read more about my online training program here or to apply for a consultation here.

Andrew LeMastersComment