Dear Laura,

Every time I decide to start a new workout routine I end up "falling of the wagon" within matter of a few weeks. I have a strong desire to get in shape, especially since I have put on 30lbs since I got married two years ago. But it is just so difficult. What should I do?

Signed,

Jessica W. , Grapevine, TX

Dear Jessica,

Your problem is all too common among many people. Health clubs that sell memberships make a mint off of those like yourself who sign up with great intentions yet after a while, they end up going to the gym less and less. Then one day they just stop going, all the while their checking account is getting debited for the monthly membership fee. Why does this "fitness drop out" phenomenon occur? The answer may be found in the "anatomy" of motivation.

It turns out sports psychologists have identified four phases in the motivational process as one begins to implement a new workout routine: Form Phase, Storm Phase, Norm Phase and Perform Phase.

Check these out!

Form Phase: Excitement is a great indicator for this phase. It's normal yet you might have a difficult time getting started so set a date and go for it!
Storm Phase: We all may recognize this phase when we hit a "wall" and things become too "difficult" for us to deal with. We may feel like quitting! Does that sound familiar?

Norm Phase: Working out even if you don't feel like it...plowing forward in spite of any discomforts you may have mentally and physically.

Perform Phase: You have successfully achieved a normal rhythm for yourself and working out has become a natural part of your life on a regular basis.

To read more on these phases, go here.

Jessica, for optimal success with your workout routine, it's important to recognize when you are going through various phases and accept them as a normal part of the process. Knowledge is power in this instance. You'll be better prepared to healthfully deal with emotions and thoughts that come up for you as you embark upon a new fitness regime. You need to embrace what you are going through and recognize that it is a normal part of this process. Then forge forward, keeping the eye "on the ball" of what you want to achieve.

Need extra motivation? Check out this That's Fit Weekly podcast I wrote and recorded it last fall as part of my "Motivation to the Max" series. I think you'll really enjoy it. It's only about ten minutes long!

Stay motivated Jessica. You can do it! Just move through each phase until you hit your stride during the "Perform" phase. And then give yourself a big pat on the back (and maybe a new handbag too!!) and congratulate yourself!

Keep me posted!

Healthfully Yours,


Laura Lewis, Life Fit Expert