What Is Your Fitness Mantra?

Believe it or not, I have days I don't want to work out and sometimes I have moments during a workout when I think I just can't go on.  Usually, it is my mind that is stopping me, not my body.  This is when a positive mindset and positive self talk can help to overpower those negative voices telling me to just go back home and sit on the couch eating cookies.  One way to set up your positive mindset is to create a fitness mantra so you know what to remind yourself when you need a push.

A mantra is a sacred word, phrase, sound, or a group of words in Sanskrit that is normally used in meditation and spiritual activities.  It doesn't need to make sense to anyone else but it should be personally meaningful.  Your mantra can be used any time you want to be reminded of why you want to achieve something, or when you want to summon more positivity and motivation.  You could have a different mantra for any area of your life if it's helpful.  

I have several phrases I tell myself when I need a push to start or get through a workout.  Here are a few that I love.  Feel free to use these or maybe they will inspire you to create your own!

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Just show Up.  Just Move.  Starting your workout is sometimes the hardest part.  I like to remind myself that any activity is good and once I get started I usually feel like continuing.  

Progress happens with each workout.  I may not be a natural athlete or be the best at many things but with each time I do it, I get stronger.  Perfection is never the goal, nor is it expected.  Don't be worried if you aren't "perfect" or "not good" at a move or certain exercise.  Keep working at it and you will keep getting better but perfect is never the goal.  

Just Breathe.  This is one I use all of the time.  No matter what I am doing.  Many times when working out, or when stressed, or when anxious, or when concentrating, you may be holding your breath.  It is amazing how much better you feel if you just take a few deep breaths.  It is very important when you are exercising to breathe through the movements.  When you think you can't go on, concentrate on your breath.  Bring your mind back to your breathing and away from those negative thoughts.  You can do much more than you think you can.

Tell me, what is your fitness mantra?