I had been training one particular client for nearly two years and although they were getting stronger they were not seeing the weight loss that they desired. Unfortunately their discipline at the gym wasn’t the same when it came to their eating habits, this is not uncommon with most gym goers. As trainers we can guide a client so far but it’s the willpower and determination of the person in front of us that determines the results!

One day something was different, they found a new desire to change but this time ‘willpower’ had kicked in and their focus was far greater than it had previously been. Within weeks they had shifted 10kg and were targeting more. Now both the training and the eating have the same dedication and drive and their goals are being met.

What is willpower?

Definition: the ability to control yourself: strong determination that allows you to do something difficult (such as to lose weight or quit smoking)

Your willpower isn’t just a skill, it’s a muscle. And like the muscles in your arms or legs, it needs to be worked. Once willpower becomes stronger, it can affect everything from work to family.

When you can force yourself to go to the gym or eat something healthy, you get better at regulating your impulses. You train yourself to not be distracted by temptation.

‘Willpower is so effective because it creates what’s known in the academic literature as a “small win.” Small wins are exactly what they sound like, and are part of how willpower creates widespread changes’

• Mike Koskiniemi PhD

With more self-control we would all eat right, exercise regularly, avoid drugs and alcohol and achieve all sorts of goals.

Train your willpower:

Make a plan for dealing with the temptations you will face. If you fail to plan then you plan to fail - If you are wanting a slimmer figure then dont have sweet treats in the cupboards!!

Remind yourself WHY you are doing what you are doing, and what you will lose if you give up.

 

One step at a time:

Like a muscle, it can get tired if you overuse it. Exercising willpower, but also making decisions and choices and taking initiatives, all seem to draw on the same well of energy.  Try not doing too many things involving mental effort at the same time.

• Roy Baumeister – Social Psychology Professor

Remember that it is the 'small wins' that are sustainable, dont take on too many changes as you will eventually fall short.

*You can do it, you will do it - exercise that willpower.