How many times have you heard the phrase “No Pain, No Gain” when it comes to fitness?
It seems to be one of those sayings that's so deeply ingrained into fitness beliefs and workout culture, that you must experience “Pain” to achieve success.
But there’s a problem behind this type of mindset which may be doing more harm than good.
The belief that progress or success only comes from pushing yourself to extremes and when you feel the “Pain” can lead to burnout, injury, and a negative view of fitness.
I personally don’t believe in “No Pain, No Gain”, and instead have a slightly different approach that builds more strength, energy, and confidence that actually lasts.
Because here’s the thing…
The Problem With “No Pain, No Gain” is that it’s a mentality/belief that discomfort is a necessary part of growth!
I believe that challenging yourself is important, but this mentality takes it too far by showcasing the extremes as positive.
Such as:
👉 Working out until you’re so exhausted and very sore for multiple days
👉 Ignoring your body’s signals to slow down, or recharge when necessary
👉 Feeling like you haven't done enough or worse failed if the workout wasn’t intense or long enough
The approach risks injury, and a cycle of frustration and negativity because you end up starting strong, “failing” because it’s unsustainable, and then feeling discouraged because of your attempts.
You should be enjoying the process of building your dream body, not dreading each workout.
You should be empowered, energized, and capable after a workout, not depleted and drained.
Fitness is a form of self-care, not punishment.
I do things differently…
What I’ve learned from over 35 years of being passionate about fitness is that sustainable progress doesn’t come from pain or discomfort.
It comes from consistency, balance in the right way, and learning to listen to your body and its needs.
What I and my clients focus on which has transformed our fitness journey is this…
Progress > Perfection
When I realized that “something is better than nothing” everything became much simpler.
Because let’s face it, that’s what the “All-Or-Nothing” approach provides you… NOTHING. It’s unsustainable, not enjoyable, and ineffective!
Focus more on what you can do, rather than what you can’t do.
Fitness is showing up consistently, and that will look different for everybody and their unique life
Fitness is NOT about pushing yourself to extreme exhaustion, instead, focus on small, intentional changes that add up to big ones over time.
Enjoyment > Punishment
The “All-Or-Nothing” approach can lead to you viewing fitness as a punishment, but in reality, fitness should be viewed as an act of self-care.
If you’re dreading every single workout, do you think you’ll stick with it?
I recommend finding movements you actually enjoy, that make you feel good, energize you, and feel rewarding.
Fitness should be empowering, not punishing.
Fitness Doesn’t Need To Be Extreme
You certainly don’t need to spend hours in the gym pushing yourself to the extreme, exhausting yourself in order to see results.
Short, effective workouts that can be easily integrated into your packed schedules are what you should focus on.
They allow you to get maximum impact in minimal time, without having to sacrifice what matters most to you, such as your energy, family time, or career pursuits.
Letting Go Of The “All-Or-Nothing” Approach
I used to believe in this approach, that if I wasn’t sore, or completely exhausted after a workout it didn’t count.
But it all led to inconsistency and frustration, and I don’t want that for any of you amazing women.
When I started prioritizing consistency, and short effective workouts that integrated into my busy days, my life became a lot more empowering.
I felt capable of succeeding in my career and strong enough to take care of my family responsibilities easily.
I began to become my best self, my confidence was radiating, I felt amazing, and was energized throughout my day.
It’s time for you to leave the “All-Or-Nothing” approach behind and embrace a more sustainable, empowering approach to fitness.
Just like I and my clients do.
I promise you’ll enjoy the journey a lot more.
I have a free guide for busy women like yourself to feel more energetic, balanced, and fit in 5 easy steps, without feeling like you’ve got to exhaust yourself to achieve it.
Click the button below and take the first step toward a stronger, fitter, healthier you!
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