Reaching your fitness goals is a long road.

There will be times when you feel unmotivated and you will want to give up.

To get through times like these you need people and behaviors that hold you accountable. That is why we encourage all of our clients to develop a fitness support network. A network of friends, family, behaviors, and habits that help you reach your goals.

So to help you find success here’s how to build your own fitness support network in six steps.

1) Tell Your Friends and Family

First, tell your friends and family about your goals. The more you share your goals and say them out loud, the more real they will become. Further, ask your friends to hold you accountable. A simple text asking you if you’re on track or a reminder to prep your meals for the week can go a long way when you are feeling unmotivated.

2) Find a Workout Buddy

Second, find someone with similar goals and become workout buddies. Work out together whenever possible and share your goals with. Plan walks together on your days off the gym. Having a scheduled workout partner will add a layer of accountability. It’s one thing to skip out on a workout, it’s another thing entirely to blow off a friend!

3) Be the Decision Maker

Be the decision-maker. When you are with your friends and family, be comfortable making decisions for the group that will benefit your progress. This can include making plans for the day or picking the restaurant for dinner.

At times being the decision-maker can be tough. You may face some criticism, but in the end, you’ll thank yourself and there’s a chance they might as well.

4) Identify Relationships and Environments That Drive Poor Habits

Next, identify relationships and environments that drive poor habits. Watch yourself carefully, when do you find yourself straying from your goals? Who are you with, what are you doing, and what is the catalyst? 

Then, take steps to remove yourself from those settings. Negative decisions tend to compound and so do positive ones. When you skip Friday’s happy hour to eat dinner at home, you may just find yourself going to bed earlier and waking up more refreshed for your Saturday morning workout.

5) Plan Healthy Activities

Building on steps 3 and 4, plan healthy activities that support your goals. Looking to catch up with a friend you haven’t seen in a while? Skip the glass of wine and opt for a walk around the park or neighborhood. You may even find that the conversation is better outdoors!

6) Learn to Say No

Finally, learn to say no. This is difficult and it takes practice. But start saying no to things that undermine your values and goals. Practice saying no to extra food when you are already full, activities that will impede your progress, and environments that do not support your goals.

Remember that you are your first priority, and it is okay to honor that! To help others, you’ve got to help yourself.

Support Equals Success

You can always tackle your goals alone, but it is easier when you have support.

Are you looking for your own fitness support network?

If so, find an OPEX Gym near you. Our premium functional fitness facilities provide a community environment paired with the personalization of your own coach. Get the support you need to reach your goals and find an OPEX Gym near you today.