Let’s face it, we are all creatures of habit! It’s easy for us to get caught in a routine, especially with our fitness routines. I see it day in and day out at the gym. I can practically remember a member’s workout routine by heart just by seeing them weekly in the gym. They will use the same machines and do the same exercises each week. Heck, I even see other personal trainers doing the same exercises with all of their clients without switching it up. Mother Nature is very smart and your body will adapt to your workout routine, just like your nutrition routine. It will quit responding if you don’t get creative and step outside of your fitness comfort zone.
Most of you know that I have been training for NBC’s American Ninja Warrior for the past 4 years. This will be my 4th submission and I am hoping that 4 times is a charm:) I have had to completely change my training up to get stronger and more skilled for the course. I quit lifting weights for upper body all together and I am training legs just 1 day a week. This was very hard for me considering I have been lifting weights on a regular basis since 1994. Since I have changed up my training, my upper body is the strongest it has ever been and my grip strength is off the charts. I wish I knew to train like this back in my IFBB competition days when I was trying to get wider lats and fuller shoulders. This training change up has not been easy, but it has kept me from burning out in the gym. It has also kept me working towards a physical goal, which keeps me in shape year round.
For 2019, I challenge you to step outside of your fitness comfort zone and to go after something that seems almost crazy. Hire a coach, switch up your boring training routine and go after a goal that seems unreachable. Who knows, you just might surprise yourself and crush that goal:). Compete in a bodybuilding or bikini competition, run a race, complete a Spartan Race or tryout for American Ninja Warrior. Yes, I might be a nervous wreck if I get selected but I will know at the start line that all of my training will pay off. Don’t be afraid of unknown territory and embrace the challenge. I guarantee that you won’t regret your sense of accomplishment once you accomplish your 2019 goal.
If you are looking for a coach to push you to step outside of your fitness comfort zone, contact me today for a FREE consultation. I would love to help you shoot for the stars in 2019.
Karen Mullarkey
“No Mullarkey” Personal Training
IFBB PRO/WBFF PRO/ISSA CFT