Now, more than ever, there is a growing interest in health and wellness. Fitness classes, wearable technology, wellness apps, and healthier food options are everywhere, and it’s no wonder!

According to McKinsey & Company, a staggering $450 billion is spent on health and wellness products each year in the U.S. alone. This figure is expected to grow by 5% annually.

As a health coach, I fully support and am excited by the growing interest in health and wellness. More awareness and education can help address larger societal challenges like obesity, stress, and chronic illnesses, while ensuring everyone can achieve thriving health.

Yet, many still feel tired, sick, and overwhelmed. Sometimes, these fitness advancements can leave us feeling stuck. We’re overwhelmed and exhausted by all our options and the pressure to constantly workout.

That’s where resources like health coaching come into play! As T1D parents, investing in your health is one of the best decisions you can make.

This investment goes beyond appearances. How we feel mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually greatly determines how we approach the diabetes journey and beyond.

Today, let’s explore the less glamorous side of fitness, and then uncover 5 strategies to energize and inspire your approach to movement.

The flip side of fitness

Despite the many positives, there’s a shadow side to this wellness boom that often goes unnoticed. Balance is essential for true health.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to put intense pressure on ourselves with the “no pain, no gain” mentality or spend hundreds of dollars on the latest biohacking gadgets and wellness trends.

At Type Won Coaching™, we move to a different beat. I work with clients to let go of the intense pressure we place on ourselves. Instead of chasing the latest trends, we root our approach in science and trust our instincts.

You know you and your family’s needs better than anyone. As T1D parents, it’s essential to strive for balance over perfection and listen to your intuition. And it starts by being aware of the drawbacks to the latest fitness trends.

My not so stellar idea

I’d like to share a personal story that might resonate with you, reminding you that you’re not alone. We all face overwhelming pressures from fitness expectations portrayed in our daily lives and on social media.

Recently, I joined a challenge at my local fitness studio: complete 15 classes in 30 days. After each class, you earned a gold star that would be placed by your name on a public board.

I started the challenge strong, but soon the less glamorous side of fitness crept in. The classes became exhausting, and I kept pushing myself, determined to earn those gold stars.

I soon began comparing my stars to others’, feeling disheartened by the difference. Negative thoughts flooded my mind: “You can’t keep up. They’re so much farther ahead of you.”

Instead of feeling joyful and strong, I felt stressed and exhausted. Even my husband noticed something was wrong.

Finally, I slowed down and listened to my body. 15 classes in 30 days was wayyyyy too much! The challenge, despite good intentions, lacked balance. I wondered why we place such enormous pressure on ourselves when working out. What’s gained from all this pushing? For me, not much.

So, I stopped the challenge. I listened to my body’s plea for rest. I didn’t need 15 gold stars to prove my worth. My true victory was in slowing down and honoring my needs.

What about you? Have you had a similar experience? Have you pushed yourself too hard, caught up in the shadow side of health and wellness? If so, it’s okay. We can move forward with more mindfulness and gentleness.

Strategies for better balance

As we wrap up, here are 5 strategies, and actionable steps, you can take to find better balance when navigating the latest fitness trends.

Strategy #1: Set realistic goals and expectations

Avoid the “no pain, no gain” trap. Set achievable fitness goals that fit your lifestyle and current health status. And if you’re looking for more guidance, I’m here to help. What can you realistically take on right now? What can you let go of? These are common questions I explore with clients. Remember, fitness should feel good for you!

Strategy #2: Find your workout buddy

Starting can be the hardest part! So I encourage you to find a workout buddy to help you along your journey. Whether it’s weekly walks or accountability via text, having support can boost your motivation and make fitness more enjoyable.

Strategy #3: Be kind to yourself

Progress, not perfection, is the goal. Celebrate small victories and be gentle with yourself. Even on days you miss a workout, remind yourself you’re doing an awesome job.

Exercise is just one tool to support your health. So if you have an “off” day, turn to other self-care tools to support your wellbeing like hydration, sleep, journaling, etc.

Strategy #4: Say bye bye to comparison

Just because your girlfriend is obsessed with bootcamp classes, doesn’t mean you have to be. As it’s often said “comparison is the thief of joy” – so let’s stop right here and now.

When it comes to fitness, we all have unique backgrounds, goals, time and motivations. Everyone is on their own unique journey.

Rather than comparing to another, tune into you! Focus on your own progress and let others inspire you. Remember, “never compare your chapter 1 to someone’s chapter 30.”

Strategy #5: Be mindful

It’s really important to pause and check in with your energy levels before any structured movement. A rough night of sleep might call for gentle yoga, while a tough day at work could be relieved by a fast-paced run.

It’s also important be mindful with your fitness gadgets. Reflect on how they make you feel. For example, if you love your fitness watch and tracking your steps – amazing! But if your watch is a constant distraction and stressor, maybe it’s time for a break.

Final thoughts for today

As T1D parents, it’s essential to honor yourself, embrace balance, and listen to your body. You’re managing a lot and doing an incredible job.

For this week, choose one of the strategies above and reflect on how it makes you feel. Take it one day at a time and trust you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be on your journey. You got this!

And if you’re seeking additional support, I’d be honored to help on your wellness journey. To see if we’re a great fit, please email me at hello@typewoncoaching.com. I’d love to hear from you!

Until next time, sending you and your family tons of love,

Allee

This blog is made for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. The information in this blog is not intended to (1) replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified licensed healthcare provider, (2) create or establish a provider-patient relationship, or (3) create a duty for us to follow up with you.