Accountability

Although it is difficult to quantify the impact of accountability on fitness outcomes, I choose the topic of accountability as my point of discussion because I find that when we involve others in our fitness goals we gain an added boost towards accomplishment and sustainability. Yet, before we venture outside of ourselves for accountability, we must ensure that we have established a “SELF” commitment.  Adding others to a fitness journey that we ourselves are not truly committed to could lead to stressful interactions with the very people desiring to help us.

My colleagues and I refer to fitness as a journey because our perspective of fitness is couched upon an ongoing lifestyle practice rather than a concluding event. This journey perspective of fitness embodies a mindset that is motivating because it invites us to associate our fitness goals and desires to take care of our health throughout the rest of our lives instead of just reaching a certain point and discontinuing.

Do I wait until I have a 100% “SELF” commitment before I get started?  Absolutely not. The degree of our “SELF” commitment can be enhanced, inspired, or affirmed by our interaction with an accountability partner or accountability group.  Thus, when looking for a workout partner to hold you accountable, there are a variety of approaches you may consider..

1. Tell everyone what you are doing and why you have decided to embark on this journey.

• This is key, as it may lead you to establishing an accountability relationship with someone you did not even consider.  The idea is not only to find good people to work with, but also, more importantly, to build a community of accountability.

2. Invite people to workout with you sometimes.

• Accountability is about building relationships and you never know, you might be the inspiration that another person needed to show up to the gym.

3. Continue to put in the work with or without your accountability partners!

• Best for last! This goes back to that “SELF” commitment we discussed earlier. You are the key to keeping yourself unwavering in your journey. It’s also encouraging to others because you are leading by example. You never know who is watching!

Here at TCC, as members, you have access to personal trainers with a wealth of knowledge, talent, and experience. These professionals would love to hold you accountable. Remember to take advantage of the resources available to you. I hope this blog helps you to hold yourselves and others accountable to the Fitness Journey.