We’re going to explore something that we thought was pretty weird the first time someone suggested it to us, but now we’re a believer!

 

And we think if you try it, you will probably become a believer, too.

 

Years ago I started my first at-home fitness program, and I was a little nervous because I had never done one before. I was in extreme pain from my scoliosis and not sure I would be able to complete the workout, let alone the entire program.

 

Before it got started, the instructor suggested that everyone set an “intention” for the class.

 

Which sounded very strange to me. Honestly, I didn’t get it. I just wanted to make it through the workout.

 

But then I had an aha! moment.

 

Making it through the workout actually WAS an intention. It was my goal for the session – surviving until the end.

 

It was a low bar to set, but it worked!

 

And that made me think about setting intentions and goals for my regular everyday workouts.

 

I’ve found it that helps me to be more mindful AND get better results.

 

I don’t always sit down and mull over what my goals are for every workout – but I do THINK about my workout before I start doing it.

 

And I recommend you give this a try if you don’t already do it.

 

Personally, I think about the exercises I’m going to do, and visualize myself doing them.

 

For example, if I know I’m going to be doing push-ups, deadlifts, etc. for my workout, I’ll picture myself doing them successfully.

 

And also I think about how that makes me feel physically and mentally. That feeling becomes my intention.

 

I’ve found that visualizing my workouts and setting an intention actually makes my workouts more fun. It gives them a specific purpose.

 

Plus, it helps me stay focused … which has the side benefit of helping me to let go of all the random thoughts and worries that I might have, which is huge for managing stress.

 

So … if you don’t already set an intention before your workouts, give it a try before your next one!

 

Visualize yourself doing your absolute best, even if it’s a walk around the block. Think about how it makes you feel!

 

And then, when you do your workout, concentrate on that feeling.

 

Try it and let us know how it goes!

 

If you’re ready to take your fitness/wellness to the next level, we can help. Check out our From Stressed to Best Program. You’ll get in the best shape of your life…yes even after 40!