Start with a Vision

Many people falter in their fitness journeys when they focus solely on short-term goals. Based on my experiences, it’s more beneficial to begin with a long-term vision. Reflect on the past decade of your life; what do you aspire to achieve in the next ten years?

Open a document and list 20 specific objectives you wish to accomplish over this period. Aim for goals that challenge your physical abilities. Here are a few from my list:

• Complete a marathon alongside my grandchildren.
• Surpass my grandfather’s record of 20 push-ups at 94 years old.
• Host family dinners and holiday gatherings well into my nineties.
• Achieve an ELO rating of 1800 in chess.

Don't restrict your ambitions based on your current age. Be bold and ensure your list resonates with your passions. This foundational principle is vital; having a significant goal serves as a powerful motivator for consistency, which is essential for progress.

Commit to Daily Action

During my college years, a strength coach introduced me to a transformative concept: the daily deposit. The idea is simple—engage in one action each day that aligns with your long-term fitness goals. This could vary from a long run to a weightlifting session.

It’s crucial that these actions are intentional and that you can log them. Daily deposits grant you flexibility while instilling a sense of discipline. I’ve found that this method fosters a healthier relationship with my training, enhancing both my life and fitness.

Focus on a Primary Discipline

As you engage in serious training—whether for a marathon or a powerlifting competition—it’s essential to prioritize one discipline. While you can certainly maintain both running and lifting, expect to see sacrifices in one area when you concentrate on the other.

For instance, as I prepare for the London Marathon, lifting has become my secondary focus. I still lift 3-4 times weekly, but my expectations adjust accordingly; I anticipate maintaining my strength while possibly experiencing a slight dip in my lifts.

Consider Hiring a Coach

Navigating your own training can be challenging, especially when juggling multiple disciplines. I decided to hire a running coach last year due to my limited experience in that area. This decision simplified my training regime—I simply follow the plan and execute it.

If you're serious about making significant progress, consider hiring a coach for your primary discipline.

Defining Your Success

Fitness goals vary greatly from person to person. The aspirations you’ve penned down will differ from mine, which is what makes training so unique. Engage in activities that genuinely interest you; whether it's running, lifting, swimming, or biking, pursue what excites you.

As the saying goes, “Comparison is the thief of all joy.” It's crucial to avoid measuring your progress against others, as this can detract from the enjoyment of your training.

With your list of 20 goals, you’ll have a clear measure of success that is personal and fulfilling.