Reducing Friction
What's slowing you down?
Friction is defined as the force between two surfaces that are sliding, or trying to slide, across each other. Friction always works in the direction opposite to the direction in which the object is moving or trying to move –slowing the object down.
Do you have a fitness goal in mind that is seemingly easy to achieve, but you’re finding a hard time getting there? Do you have some friction that’s slowing you down? We all have off-days and that voice in our head that gives us every reason not to work on our goals. We get it. But the good news is that there are proven ways we can be proactive –proven ways to turn off that voice, keep friction at an absolute minimum and power through to achieve your goals.
Try these top tips from our Healthy Communities expert, Chris Shipway, to reduce friction and let us know how you get on!
Be realistic – set small realistic goals based on resources, knowledge, and time. Making impossible goals is a common mistake that can find you giving up before you really get started. Make your goals realistic and simple. Start small, smash those goals and your success will encourage you to keep going. Don’t forget, slow and steady wins the race...
Track and change - once you feel your plan becoming easy or if something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to make tweaks. Progress doesn’t have to be upwards if it means you stick to your long-term goals –doing something is better than nothing.
The Places Tracker app has been designed with a feature that combines all of your activity from your wearable tech data to gym visits and classes. Track your moves and record patterns that work for you. Also, compete with other members of the Places Tracker app community to see who has the highest moves on our leader boards. Engaging in healthy competition can encourage individuals to stay on track!
Don’t forget, the gym team can create a bespoke, digital workout programme for you –tailored to meet your specific time constraints, current fitness level, and individual goals that you want to achieve. All programmes are stored on your Places Locker app and can be reviewed by an instructor to help you track your progress. Our app has been specially designed so that we can help you to find a programme that not only works for you but helps you achieve your goals.
Simply speak with an instructor the next time you visit, and they’ll help set up a programme that’s best for you!
Hold yourself accountable–ever have the best intentions to go to the gym at the end of the day, then the end of the day approaches and you’d rather sit on the couch? Plan, prepare, and plan some more! Plan for the next day the night before -pack your kit, sort out your lift there and book a class to hold yourself accountable. Make it harder to give up than it is to keep going!