It is hard to find motivation to stay on top of our exercise routines if we constantly think that a particular sized body shape is the only one we should emulate the look of. Quite frankly that typical body shape which is still largely projected in the main stream media only serves to fuel a certain resentment towards our own natural body shapes and sizes. Perhaps what is most detrimental is the effect this can have on our own motivation to achieve a fitter healthier and happy self.
We owe it to ourselves to appreciate our own body type and no matter how much we exercise or lose weight, we are largely confined within the realms of particular body types and these have a bearing on not only how we look, but they also give us an idea of how we may respond to food intake, metabolism and our diet and training. So don’t be disheartened if you sometimes feel like no matter how much you have exercised and have lost weight, you are don’t look like that model in a magazine.
There are three general categories of body types that we generally fall under: Ectomorphs are naturally skinny with lean muscle and are more resistant to weight gain, whilst Mesomorphs are more medium size structures and have considerable more predispositions to muscle gain and lower body fat. Endomorphs on the other hand have a larger bone structure with higher amounts of total body mass and fat mass.
What is important is where you are on a healthy scale. Try to use a (BMI) Body mass index to measure your body fat and adjust your goals towards achieving a healthier BMI.
To get your BMI divide your weight and your height, and then divide your answer by 1.75. Check against these categories for your general classification: You are underweight if your results are below 18.5, normal weight is usually between 18.5 and 24.9, overweight is 25 to 29.9, and obesity BMI is deemed to be 30 or greater.
For your motivation, focus on the everyday challenges that you are bound to face and plan to overcome them. If for example your weekly challenge is going straight to the gym from work because you feel tired, allow yourself a late afternoon snack which will boost your energy levels.
If you are trying to lose weight, focus on achieving your fitness goals by increments. Try to start with something simple and increase your motivation by challenging yourself in increments. For example, start off with a light jog a few times a week, and advance to a run.
The truth is focusing on the end result and visualising yourself at the end may work against you. You are more likely to succeed when you focus on small achievable goals. And more likely to enjoy your journey. This will lead to a habitual longer term approach to your workouts and you are more likely to stick to them.
Enjoy your journey and reward yourself. Just as our bodies come in different shapes and sizes, and so should our wardrobes. The more savvy shoppers appreciate the beauty of shopping their shapes and sizes. Whether you’re curvy, boyish, petite, or full-figured, these days you can achieve stunning great looks.
