Living The Fitness Journey

Only months after finding myself without purpose in the gym, I was about to pass a new milestone: a challenging, core-focused bodyweight exercise called the L-sit with my trainer by my side. I have been active all my life, playing sports, running, hiking, or taking on any physical activity. Just like hiring an executive coach helped me professionally a few years ago, working with a personal trainer accelerated my fitness journey.

It takes effort, but I prioritize fitness and find time every day to be active. I value the mental benefits, release of stress, challenge, and sense of accomplishment as much as the physical benefits of endurance and unencumbered mobility. One day in early April, I was surprised to feel lost and aimless, unsure of what to focus on despite always knowing before. While the motivation to exercise was there, I felt off track, questioning the purpose of my efforts.

I felt that same disconnected feeling a few years back in my professional career. After several leadership shifts and team dynamic changes, I wondered if I was in a role I enjoyed and with a company that met my needs. Losing some sense of self, I questioned my value and which unique skills I brought to the workplace.

The key strategy that helped me overcome my professional crisis was hiring an executive coach. However, arriving at the solution was not easy, as there were roadblocks I struggled with before moving forward.

I wondered if this fortunate déjà vu was leading me down a familiar path. Was finding a personal fitness trainer the way to accelerate my healthy lifestyle?

My biggest roadblocks were the same in both circumstances:

1. Cost—Hiring an executive coach or personal fitness trainer is a notable financial commitment. Their services come with expertise, and I had to want them and pay fairly to get the desired results.

2. Time—I had to prioritize being available for a standing appointment that only happens if I show up. Not only would I have to attend consistently, but I would also have to be present with enthusiasm and do the work.

3. Judgment—Fearing the judgment of others and myself was a factor. Wasn't I supposed to be able to do this on my own? I am a professional with years of experience in my career and a lifelong athlete in the gym, so why did I feel a sense of inadequacy and failure?

I hired a personal trainer, just as I had done with an executive coach. I reframed the dialogue from spending to investing by addressing each roadblock and making intentional choices. After reviewing my budget, I recognized this as an investment in my health and future. Staying active, primarily through strength training, is essential for well-being. Numerous studies and experts attest that physical activity is the most potent way to improve health.

Tackling the time roadblock came next. There was a reason Nike went with the slogan 'Just Do It.' Knowing you must do the work and committing to it are entirely different things. Hiring a trainer established a contract that put a structure around my desire to improve my fitness efforts. That meant being accountable to the trainer and myself for following through on my goal, even when I mentally did not feel like it.

For me personally, overcoming judgment has been the most challenging obstacle. I am confident and optimistic and have high standards for myself. Reading, researching, and making critical decisions are what I do daily. I always encourage team members to seek out mentors, so why was it so hard for me to take my own advice? A personal trainer is a professional in their field with real-world experience, continuing education, and certifications that any level of athlete could benefit from. Hiring a trainer did not undermine my knowledge but enhanced it. Their fresh perspective, program style, and approach changed how I see myself in the gym in my workouts and helped me progress.

I'm grateful I took the time to assess my situation and make the necessary adjustments when I began to lose focus. Today, I feel stronger and have incorporated new and fun activities into my workouts. As you set your sights on 2025, explore how to reach your goals, and do not wait to hit a wall like I did. Consider a personal trainer if you want to dial in that fitness goal. A professional coach can be a great option if you want to take your career to a new level. Here is to you making this your best year yet; go get it!

Written by: Maria Petruccelli