Results Require Routine: Focus on What Works

Are you doing too much and still feeling like you’re not getting anywhere?

Sometimes we put so much energy into finding another workout, trying another diet, or adding something else to our schedule that we overlook the basics. We’re busy, but we don’t have a routine that supports what we want to accomplish.

Before you add more, look at what you’re doing consistently.

Planning Made Time for Me

When I first started my fitness journey, I had a family of five to take care of. There were meals to make, groceries to buy, and everyone’s needs to consider. Taking care of myself required planning.

On Sundays, I created a menu and then went grocery shopping. That helped me save money because I knew what we needed. It also saved me from running to the store during the week just to figure out dinner.

The ingredients were already in my pantry and refrigerator. I knew what I was making.

Because of that, I had time to go to the gym for an hour, sometimes longer. When I came home, I was ready to make dinner. And before I got to the gym, I knew what I was going to do.

My workouts had direction.

This was before I became a trainer. I planned, and I executed.

Give Your Training a Direction

It’s easy to walk into the gym and do whatever comes to mind—or choose exercises because you saw someone doing them online.

But how do those exercises fit your goals? What are you building on? How will you know you’re improving?

A training plan gives your effort a purpose. It helps you practice movements, track your progress, and make appropriate changes over time.

For my personal-training clients, I handle that planning and guide them through their sessions. Together, we work on getting stronger, building muscle, improving movement, and developing fitness.

Their responsibility is to show up and put in the effort—and make room for the habits that support their training between sessions.

Keep Coming Back to the Big 4

I come back to these four basics in my coaching because they deserve regular attention:

Nutrition: Plan meals that nourish you. Include protein, fruits or vegetables, and foods you enjoy. Having a few simple meals you can repeat makes the week easier.

If you need dinner ideas, I recently started sharing MFI Dinner Recipes on Instagram, @marisol_fit_inspire—simple, homemade meals we actually make and enjoy at home. My boyfriend has been making some delicious dinners, and I’m sharing those, too! Use them as inspiration when you’re planning your weekly menu.

Hydration: Keep water available and make drinking it part of your day.

Movement: Along with your training, plan your walks and find opportunities to move throughout the day. A short walk still counts.

Sleep: Give yourself enough time to sleep. Think about when you need to start winding down, rather than waiting until you’re exhausted.

You don’t need to make all of these perfect. Start by noticing which one needs more consistency.

Rest and “Me Time” Belong in Your Schedule

A full schedule can leave you with very little time for yourself.

I know what it’s like to have people depending on you. But your meals, movement, sleep, and recovery deserve attention, too.

Make room for a walk you enjoy. Sit down to eat. Take a few quiet minutes. Give yourself time to recover from your workouts.

You don’t have to fill every available moment with something productive. Taking care of yourself is a good use of your time.

Make a Plan You Can Follow

This week, take a few minutes to look ahead:

• What are you making for dinner, and what groceries do you need?

• When can you fit in your walks?

• Are your training sessions on your calendar?

• What time do you need to wind down for bed?

• Where can you leave a little room for yourself?

Keep your answers realistic. If your week is busy, choose simple meals and shorter walks. Create a routine that works with your life so you can keep returning to it.

Results Require Routine

There will always be another workout, another tip, and another thing you could try.

Give the basics a chance to become consistent before you decide you need more.

Planning helped me make room for my health while taking care of my family. It’s still something I practice today, and it’s something I help my clients build into their lives.

If you need direction with your training, I’d love to help. Visit www.mfitraining.com to explore my coaching options.

Marisol

MFI Training