I recently overheard someone say it: “No matter what I do, I can’t get rid of my spare tire and man boobs. It’s just how my body is.”
Is this really true?
Let’s dive into why this mindset might hold us back and what we can do about it.
The “It’s Just My Body” Myth
Many people believe they’re destined to carry extra weight in certain areas, no matter what they do. They claim to have “tried everything,” but still can’t shed those stubborn pounds.
Example:
John, a 40-year-old office worker, believes he’s destined to have a beer belly because his father and grandfather had one. He’s tried a few diets and joined a gym, but gave up after a month when he didn’t see immediate results.
Questioning the Myth
Before accepting this belief, we need to ask some important questions:
- How long and consistently did you exercise?
- What type of workouts are you doing?
- What was your diet like, including calorie intake, protein, and fiber?
- How much sleep and water were you getting daily?
The Historical Perspective
Our ancestors didn’t have “man boobs” or “spare tires.” They were fit and toned from hunting, gathering, and surviving in challenging environments.
Picture a Neanderthal with a beer belly trying to chase down prey or climb trees for fruit. It simply doesn’t fit!
The Mind?
Our beliefs limit our potential. How many things do we write off because we think we’re not built for them?
Sarah always believed she couldn’t run because she had “bad knees.” After seeing a physical therapist and watching the knees over toes guy – she was gradually building up her strength, she completed her first marathon.
Action Items to Break the Myth
- Track your exercise: Log your workouts, including type, duration, and intensity, for at least 6 months. (this is a lifestyle not some fad)
- Monitor your diet: record everything you eat and drink for 30 days.
- Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night for a month.
- Stay hydrated: Drink at least a gallon of water daily for a month
- Challenge your beliefs: Write down three fitness-related beliefs you have about yourself and actively work to prove them wrong over the next 6 months. (fixed mindset vs growth mindset)
Remember, your body is capable of amazing changes. Don’t let limiting beliefs hold you back from achieving your fitness goals. With consistent effort and the right mindset, you can reshape your body and your life.
Joe DiAndrea 