It’s a lot of work to change your eating habits, go to the gym, dedicate more time to sleep, and stay hydrated. It takes consistency and discipline to maintain these factors of health. It’s frustrating to be working so hard for months and feel like you aren’t seeing any results. If you’re doing everything right and you still don’t see results, your metrics might be off and your goal is unrealistic.
In a previous article we discussed how to break a plateau. But what happens when we are following a plan and we still don’t see results. Your metrics of progress might be off. If you are overweight and expect to have a dream body in a few short months, without living in the gym and PEDs (performance enhancement drugs), you are mistaken. Having a “dream” body takes a lot of hard work and time. Genetics play a factor but most people don’t hit the genetic lottery. With a hyper-fixation on the number on the scale, or the way a dress fits can cloud your view of other markers. Have you considered how much stronger you have gotten? Have you noticed you lost inches around your waist? Have you noticed you sleep better? Do you feel better? If your goal is to lose weight or look good in a dress, your progress will be superficial. That does not mean you haven’t made ANY progress.
It is frustrating to put in so much hard work and feel like no progress has been made, but don’t let it get in the way of the progress you have made. Pat yourself on the back for lifting more weight, sleeping better, and losing some inches. Progress is not linear and it never will be. Be open to making changes in your current program and ask for help.
Personally I have struggled with training plateaus throughout my years. My goals are performance oriented. A few years ago, I was stuck at a 315lbs deadlift despite consistent training. I would train deadlifts twice a week for months and nothing changed. My overemphasis on deadlifts was getting in the way of my overall progress. I had to change my approach. I had to do more research on training programs, take courses, and try new equipment such as kettlebells. Shortly after, 400lbs came in no time. I learned that being too focused on one goal can narrow your attention to a point you can’t see the big picture. The most important lesson was to not give up and always seek a new path to success.
The last thing you should do is give up. You will lose all of the progress you have made, you won’t be working towards your goal, and it will be harder to make a comeback when you decide to try again. Quitting will definitely ensure you don’t reach your goal. Continuing the process will be challenging, but you will succeed eventually.
If you need help, seek a knowledgeable coach. A good coach keeps up with the current literature on health, and can implement the information to a tailored plan that will work for you. A coach will see what you can’t and will know what you don’t. Together as a team your goal will be achieved.
Don’t get in your own way of progress and don’t let plateaus derail your journey. It won’t be linear and it will be challenging. That is the beautiful part of the process. You deserve to be happy and healthy. Stay focused, seek help if needed, and keep pushing forward.
