Fit For Life: Discipline Makes The Difference

Saturday, November 16, 2013

Matt Espeut, GoLocalWorcester Health + Lifestyle Contributor

IT is the most important part of human nature, because it dictates who we are, and defines our character. Without IT we will never reach our fitness goals. IT is DISCIPLINE. Photo: Flickr/crypto

When it's cold and rainy out – IT gets you to the gym.

IT will also get you there on nice sunny days, too.

When you are tired and unmotivated, IT helps you put on your sneakers.

IT even helps you say ‘no’ to a second helping of food or a sugary snack, or a second drink.

IT is, to me, the most important part of human nature, because it dictates who we are, and defines our character.

Without IT we will never reach our fitness goals, and no one’s program will work for you.

IT is - DISCIPLINE.

Discipline Makes the Difference

Clients who come to me with the most discipline are obvious. It shows in their results. I tell my clients when they make their appointments that I can't help them unless they supply some discipline. I am only with an individual 2-3 hours a week. Without discipline to continue throughout the week, it won’t be enough to make a difference. Discipline is needed.

Some people like the gym to socialize, and some actually like to workout, others hate exercise all together, but still endure the misery because they know that it is beneficial. There are all different levels of self-discipline. Not only is it important to help improve our physical appearance, it’s necessary in most aspects of life.

Think about our military and how serious discipline helps those who serve make that type of sacrifice. Just think in our own lives, when we really want something, not only is it motivation, but it also takes discipline. From getting out of bed in the morning for that coffee, to getting to the gym, to working hard, being a good parent, it’s more than just wanting to do it – it’s the extra oomph that assures success, day after day, week after week.

Discipline Defined

Discipline: n. 1. Training expected to produce a specific character or pattern of behavior; especially training that produces moral or mental improvement. 2. Controlled behavior resulting from disciplinary training; self-control. 3. Control obtained by enforcing compliance or order. 4. A systematic method to obtain obedience: a military discipline. 5. A branch of knowledge or teaching.

Other definitions talk about training or conditions for the improvement of physical powers, self-control, systematic training in obedience to regulations and authority, a state of improved behavior, resulting from training, methods of practice, etc.

We as humans all have different levels of self-discipline. Regarding fitness, it is important or should I say imperative to have a high level in order to be fit and healthy, due to all the obstacles we face in life. You can acquire more of it if you practice or exercise it by setting small attainable goals, then progress on to bigger and more important ones. I feel that for me to reach the point where I can advise others to live a healthy lifestyle took big amounts of discipline and passion for the cause. The great part about discipline is, once you master it, your proper eating and exercise becomes another part of you, solidly with you all the time.

Matt Espeut has worked as a personal trainer for almost 20 years with clients ranging in age from 14 to 86. His focus is on overall health, strength, and functional conditioning. Holistic health and nutrition is the cornerstone of all his programs. Matt works in private and small group training available at your home or office location or at gym facilities. Matt offers his services to everyone wanting to be more fit and healthy, overweight young people, youth/collegiate athletes, and seniors. Matt has worked and continues to train at several facilities in the Providence area including Gold's Gym and CORE Studio, and he believes continued education is a must in his field. Email Matt: [email protected], check out his website at www.fitnessprofiles.net or on Facebook at Matt Espeut or on Twitter @MattEspeut.