Over the past few years, during our sweat-drenched sessions in living rooms, gardens, and makeshift home gyms, I've been banging on about one thing to my personal training clients: discipline beats motivation, no two ways about it. I’m not here to peddle quick fixes or Instagrammable "after" shots. Nope! I’m about building iron-clad discipline that sees you lacing up your trainers and smashing out another burpee even when motivation's packed its bags. Discipline, that’s the stuff that makes a difference, not fleeting motivation. It's time we shift gears in our thinking. Are you on board?
Harnessing the Power of Stoicism for Unshakeable Fitness Discipline
Ever heard of Marcus Aurelius? A Roman emperor, and a serious nutter for Stoic philosophy. Among his many beauties, he’s quoted as saying, "You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realise this, and you will find strength." We can steal this gold for our fitness journey.
Now, most people say motivation is their workout fuel. That’s like saying you’re going to rely on sunshine in the UK to plan a BBQ. Good luck with that! Motivation’s as consistent as a dodgy wifi signal. It's nice when it's there, but don’t bank on it.
Instead, let's chat about discipline. This is the big kahuna in fitness success. Discipline isn't bothered about how you're feeling or if the heavens are throwing it down. It's about doing the job, rain or shine.
Enter stage right, Stoicism. This ancient philosophy reminds us that we can’t control the entire show, but our responses? They're our script to write. Epictetus, another Stoic philosopher and wise chap, said, "It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters." So, when your workout plan gets an unexpected plot twist, don’t throw your toys out of the pram. Adapt, crack on, and stay on track.
Speaking of track, let's talk about limits. Know when to sprint, know when to take a breather. This is where Stoicism can rev up our self-awareness. Epictetus advises, "Know, first, who you are, and then adorn yourself accordingly." In workout lingo, that means knowing your strengths and weaknesses. Then, you can fine-tune your workout to your body and not some Instagram influencers.
Discipline isn’t just about going at it hammer and tongs. It's about balance. So, let's paint a picture with two gents, John and Paul. John’s waiting for the perfect moment, for the motivation to be just right. Paul, he's got his head down, getting on with his exercise and diet plan. It’s pissing down outside, John gives his run a miss, but Paul, he’s out there, rain be damned. A rich, indulgent dessert gets passed around. John caves, while Paul takes a pass. In the long run, you can bet your last quid, Paul's going to be smashing his goals while John's still waiting for his stars to align.
Cultivating discipline is a tough gig. It's a bit like committing to Eastenders or TOWIE– it's for LIFE. It’s not about being perfect, but about picking yourself up, dusting off, and getting back to the grindstone. This is where Stoicism fits in. It urges us to focus on what we can control, and let go of the rest.
And as Seneca, another Stoic bigwig, puts it, "We suffer more often in imagination than in reality." So, don’t convince yourself that you can’t finish that last set or resist that cheeky piece of cake. It’s all in your noggin! With discipline, you can tell your brain to jog on and keep pushing.
So there you have it. Motivation might be the spark to kickstart your fitness journey, but it’s a discipline that stokes the fire. And Stoic philosophy? That’s the handbook to keep the blaze burning. When you're ready to jack in your session, remember Marcus and his mates, get your discipline in gear, and keep on smashing it.
Yours in health. Daniel Welstead Expert PT Sevenoaks, Kent.
BONUS! 10 STOIC TIPS FOR YOU TO SUCCEED IN YOUR HEALTH AND FITNESS JOURNEY
1. What is Stoicism and how does it apply to health and fitness?
Stoicism is an ancient philosophy focused on self-control, endurance, and acceptance of what we can't change. It can be applied to health and fitness by helping us build discipline, handle setbacks, and adjust our attitudes to meet fitness goals.
2. How can Stoic principles improve my workout routine?
Stoic principles can make your workout routine more consistent by instilling a disciplined mindset. Stoicism teaches that it's not external events, but our response to them that matters - so even on tough days, you keep up with your workout.
3. Can Stoicism help me stick to a diet?
Yes, Stoicism can be a useful tool when you're trying to stick to a diet. The Stoic emphasis on self-control and acceptance can help manage cravings, avoid impulsive eating, and maintain a balanced perspective on your nutrition goals.
4. How does Stoic philosophy handle setbacks in fitness goals?
Stoic philosophy teaches acceptance of things outside our control. So, if you face a setback in your fitness goals, like an injury, Stoicism would encourage acceptance and adaptation - perhaps by modifying exercises or focusing on a diet while you heal.
5. How can Stoic teachings help with motivation in fitness?
While Stoicism doesn't directly fuel motivation, it aids in developing discipline which is more reliable. Stoics believe in commitment to tasks regardless of emotional state. This approach can ensure consistency in your fitness journey, even when motivation wanes.
6. Can the Stoic principle of accepting discomfort benefit my fitness routine?
Absolutely. Stoics view discomfort as a natural part of life to be accepted rather than feared. This mindset can help you push through challenging workouts, endure physical discomfort, and achieve greater fitness levels.
7. What Stoic strategies can I use to improve my mental health in relation to fitness?
Stoic strategies like focusing on what you can control, accepting what you can't, and understanding that our thoughts influence our emotions can be beneficial. These strategies can help reduce fitness-related stress and promote a positive mindset towards your health goals.
8. How can Stoic philosophy influence my long-term health and fitness goals?
Stoic philosophy promotes discipline, consistency, and a balanced perspective, which are crucial for achieving long-term health and fitness goals. Stoicism encourages you to commit to the process rather than fixating on immediate results.
9. How can I use Stoicism to handle fitness plateaus?
Stoicism teaches that some things are within our control while others aren't. If you hit a fitness plateau, Stoicism would suggest changing what you can (like your exercise routine or diet) and accepting what you can't control (like your body's natural limitations).
10. Can Stoicism help me maintain a work-life-fitness balance?
Stoic philosophy can indeed help maintain a balanced life. By promoting moderation, acceptance, and a focus on what's truly important, Stoicism can guide you in juggling work commitments, personal life, and fitness without being overwhelmed.
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