Color Me Whhhhhhattt?!? A beginners guide to getting motivated

Last month Ashley and I took part in the Color me Rad Run in out at UBC.

A short 5 km run, where colored corn-starch is lovingly thrown at you, one could say that not only do you get dirty, you also get dyed.

I am currently in the process of becoming a certified personal trainer, so events like Color me Rad and Tough Mudder, are my kind of fun. But one thing I noticed with all the runners out there on rad day (as well as on the Tough Mudder course), is it wasn't necessarily about the running or the fitness, it was more about the team, the friendships, and just having fun.

Before the race....... clean...

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Coming into the season of sugary sweets, fatty dinners, and multiple "cheat days" I feel like its time to talk motivation, before we all make those  "lose 15 lbs" resolutions. How about starting the new year fitness routine early... so that you don't give up after the first three weeks. 

That being said, as a soon-to-be fitness professional, I would like to offer some pointers and hints for those of you who unlike myself, don't necessarily find working out and training to be something you look forward too

Here are my three tips to make it through, with the least amount of pain:

 Its all about Making time, Motivation, and Fun.

1) Making Time: Now, we are all busy people. I work two jobs, have pets that rely on me, and am in school; so I know first hand what its like to not want to cram in a workout into my already jam-packed day. 

The biggest thing about workouts, is that its as essential as drinking water, eating, and sleeping. You have to make time. Whether its joining a running group, sacrificing a little personal life... Its something that if you try and make time, you will find it.

2) Motivation. This is a big one. Studies show it takes roughly 21 one days to make a habit. Find a fitness buddy, set small realistic goals, and commit. 
An easy way with the holiday season coming up is to book a personal trainer for a few sessions. Its a relatively easy, and potentially inexpensive way to hold yourself accountable. And to make a plan. Check out Revive for some awesome local trainers. As well as the YWCA for local classes.

If you can't afford a trainer, there a million resources out there to help you find a stable plan. One of my favorites is www.bodybuilding.com

Post race selfies, running buddies keep you motivated when you want to quit

 3) Make it fun. Events like Color me rad, Tough Mudder, and a variety of other groups or races are out there. Try looking at places like www.meetup.com and search fitness groups. This way you can make working out something you look forward too, rather then dread. 

The biggest thing about running events is knowing your limits. Don't sign up for a marathon next month if you have never have run more then 5 km in one go. Pace yourself. Build slowly, work with cardio and strength exercises to maximize whatever time you can.

The Aftermath

Remember, fitness is more then looking good. Its about feeling healthy, being strong, and living well. Getting over the first month is the hard part. But there are people like me out there cheering for you, and only want to see you be your best, healthiest self.


Until next time,


Yours in health,

Emelia