I joined a gym, and nothing happened.

Heather Sholl
Concierge Wellness Coach April 2020

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I joined a gym, and nothing happened.

This is one of my favorite meme themes out there. It’s true, joining a gym doesn’t mean your goals will magically happen to you or ensure that you’ll be motivated to show up every day. The big box gyms count on this as part of their business model. They sell long term contracts for low monthly rates and get as many people as possible in the door, and count on the national statistics that tell us less than twenty percent of people who have a gym membership will return after three months. That’s why they can have thousands of members but still be empty at certain times of day.

It’s also part of the reason gyms are getting smaller and those big chains are going out of business. One of the well documented keys to success in a wellness program is accountability and smaller gyms are able to accommodate that. Everyone is a stranger at 24 Hour fitness, which works if you’re confident with the equipment and motivated to show up each day. Considering the statistics, that’s not most people. If you’re looking for success, find a friend, a trainer, a small gym or better yet all the above!

Set yourself up on a professional accountability program with a coach or trainer who helps you set your goals then follows up with you each week on your schedule and progress. They can give you guidance when you’re stuck and make sure you stay on track for the goals you set for yourself

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