Why Rewards?

Have you ever found yourself on the treadmill, drenched in sweat, gasping for breath, and you wonder – why on earth am I doing this to myself? Maybe you’re going through that right now, or perhaps it’s a feeling you’re all too familiar with. But what if I told you there’s a method to make this whole fitness thing a bit more bearable? Make it not just about the strain and pain, but also about the journey. 

The Psychology Behind Reward Systems

I’m not talking about giving yourself a slice of pizza for every mile you run, though that does sound tempting. The concept of a reward system is much deeper, it taps into our brains’ desire for positive reinforcement.

When we accomplish something and get rewarded for it, our brains release a chemical called dopamine. Dopamine is often referred to as the ‘feel good’ neurotransmitter because, well, it makes us feel good! This release of dopamine creates a link in our brains between the activity and the feeling of happiness. The result? We’re more likely to repeat the behavior that led to the reward.

When you give yourself a reward for achieving a fitness goal, you’re not just giving yourself a pat on the back. You’re literally training your brain to associate exercise with positive feelings. This can go a long way in transforming exercise from a dreaded chore to an anticipated activity.

The Connection to Fitness Goals

So, how does this apply to your fitness goals? The struggle to stick with a workout regimen is real. Maybe it’s the early mornings, maybe it’s the sore muscles, or perhaps it’s just the monotony of it all. Sometimes, it feels like there’s an endless list of things we’d rather do than exercise. But this is where a reward system comes in.

Implementing a reward system gives you something tangible to look forward to at the end of a tough workout or a challenging week. It turns the abstract benefits of exercise – better health, longer life, improved mood – into something concrete and immediate.

What’s the reward? Well, that’s up to you! It could be anything that brings you joy and doesn’t undo your hard work. Maybe it’s a relaxing massage, a movie night, or a new gadget you’ve had your eye on. The important thing is that it’s something that genuinely excites you and makes all the hard work feel worthwhile.

Conclusion

Fitness isn’t just about the grind, the sweat, or the sore muscles. It’s also about the moments of joy, the feeling of achievement, and the rewards that come with reaching our goals. Implementing a reward system for your fitness routine can harness the power of positive reinforcement to help make your fitness journey more enjoyable and sustainable.

Want some help formulating a plan just for you? Let’s chat, grab your Free Consultation time here.