Psychological road blocks
I’m finishing up my studies in psychology, and have always considered trying to integrate my knowledge of the human thought process and behavior with the world of health and fitness. I thought that one good step might be to find out what kinds of psychological roadblocks those of you in the Bodyspace world might encounter. This goes for both personal experience, and trainers who witness these situations with clients! Thank you all for your thoughts and support!
Jay
September 24, 2009 at 12:35 pm
this is very interesting, and so relevant. i think a lot of people self sabotage because of psychological issues they haven’t faced. One of the pschological roadblocks i have encountered is fear. As much as I want to succeed in my fitness goals, it scares me. I obviously want to be attractive to the men around me, the actual thought of it is scary because it could put me in danger. I know that sounds strange, but a lot of women i know deal with the same issue. Being wanted, but that makes you vulnerable, and that is scary.
September 24, 2009 at 12:37 pm
I’m a psychological road block to myself. i wake up everyday and look in the mirror and see my sculpted body and ask myslef, why do i have to workout? I’m already sculpted.
September 24, 2009 at 12:37 pm
its definitely a mind game. i over think my lifting / health but it works for me.
i think with most people, fear of failure is a problem. i think they are afraid if they make an effort and try hard and dont see the results they want, they will feel doomed.
if you are practicing fitness for the right reasons (not for a new years resolution or to look good this summer), your only roadblock should be injuries and illnesses. fitness is a lifestyle. if working out doesnt make you feel good, you need to re-asses why/what you are doing.
if you understand the physiological processes and changes your body experiences through exercise, you should be able to be realistic in your diet and training goals w/out any psychological road blocks.
BE STRONG! Its all in your head.
September 25, 2009 at 3:37 am
Psychological road blocks
Thanks for sharing
September 25, 2009 at 6:11 am
beltn4real: Thank you for your candidness. I had never considered being fit a source of potential vulnerability, but I understand your point. While being fit may draw some potentially unwanted attention, it will also lead to improved cognitive acuity, meaning you will be more alert and reactive to potential threats. Also, the strength you build will be helpful in physically protecting yourself against potential threats. I think that it is very important when you encounter emotions like fear and anxiety, to investigate the thoughts that create those emotions. Often, you will find that when you investigate alternative thoughts (such as those above) the fear diminishes!
tipsbybigdave: You are hilarious! I appreciate your irreverence.
ryanlusch:I mostly agree, especially with the notion of working out for the right reasons! I used to live in NJ, and encountered a lot of dudes who just didn’t get it. However, I strongly feel that even when you are working out for the right reasons (e.g., maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle), you can still encounter psychological roadblocks.