HOW TO MOTIVATE TO WORKOUT (WHEN YOU’RE JUST NOT FEELING IT)
by Claire Lo Russo
Photo Alex Boyd
UGH, I HAVE TO WORK OUT.
I’m not going to lie, I have had that exact sentiment run through my mind on many occasions. Yes, yes, we all know that working out is good for us. Studies showing the benefits of exercising are not lacking. But, there are times in life that we just can’t seem to muster the strength to get up and, “just do it!” What to do?
As is the answer to so many life situations, a change in perception is often the key. Now don’t get me wrong, there are days where you should just listen to your body and get some mental/physical R&R. However, if you’re struggling with the idea of exercising and the thought makes you wince, let me help provide a different perspective.
Four years ago this month, my father passed away from cancer combined with a very rare condition called Light Chain-Deposition Disease. He was an elite athlete, clocking an impressive 4:07 mile and earning the distinguished honor of being inducted into the Notre Dame Monogram Club. Despite his great athleticism and obsession with health, I watched helplessly as the disease ravaged my father’s body. He lost his ability to move and eventually his body and organs betrayed him in the most brutal fashion.
It was during this time that I also injured myself. In my attempt to escape and drown the pain, I pushed my body too far in yoga assuming Hanumanasana - a split pose - and tore my hamstring. This injury would prevent me from engaging in anything other than walking. As if my father’s deterioration and passing wasn’t enough of a wakeup call, my own struggle with a bodily injury completely crystallized my thinking and permanently rewired my thought process.
A CHANGE IN PERSPECITVE.
Photo Harry Kwon
The first day I was able to go for a run pain-free run – nearly a year later – I broke into a huge smile and started crying. Thank you, thank you, thank you was all I could think in my mind. From this “rebirth” I would slowly add rebounding, weights and other training modalities. Eventually I regained full use of my leg. I was overjoyed and ecstatic. Never again would I take for granted what millions of people lose daily – health and the ability to move.
My newfound joy and appreciation evolved from a focus on what I could do with my body, and began to grow into a desire to help others develop new ways of approaching fitness and wellness. The first class I taught was interesting. The Bellicon trampolines I purchased hadn’t arrived yet, so I put on my bravest face and taught for a week using Bosu balls as stand-ins.
The growth of Carve It™ rebounding classes was slow and steady. My methodologies, techniques and skills began to solidify. I filed for an LLC and went about trademarking the name. I worked hard and developed branded-techniques and classes – all taught on ‘rebounders’ aka mini-trampolines. At first, people laughed, but as they saw results and experienced the amazing benefits of rebounding, they gained a new perspective.
To say that I love what I do is an understatement. It isn’t grand, but it feeds my soul in a way that is indescribable. Being a humble part of someone’s transformation, or playing a small role in shifting their perception on training, health and wellness is a beautiful thing.
GEMS FROM THE JOURNEY.
As it relates to not wanting to engage in self-care, that’s ok. Don’t beat yourself up. Act as if, show up anyway and one day your perception will switch to one of extreme gratitude. You will become more cognizant of the daily gift we’re presented with when swinging your feet around and rolling out of bed. Once your mindset is changed, you will still have days that are challenging, but I can guarantee that they will be far less frequent.
A QUICK NOTE OF THANKS
Photo Kathryn Quaderer
My first blog is dedicated to my Dad. For being my guide and inspiration in so many ways. Each time I experience the joy of coaching and training, I think of you.
Please note, I am not a medical professional. Always heed your doctor’s advice and instructions. My experiences are my own and shared to help others understand what has worked for me.