Small steps are underrated. 

Life can get so focused on the big things, that we can negate the importance of the small steps that will get us there. We can be so focused don’t the end goal, that we forget to enjoy the process that gets us there.

When I think of my fitness progression, it’s true that my goals have changed dramatically since the day I decided to make a change, but one thing is certainly true… there hasn’t been a quick fix. It’s been commitment and inching closer from week to week. And learning to celebrate those small wins is what has made me engaged with the journey at every step.

There have certainly been times when I’d feel stuck at lifting a weight for a little my period of time, not able to progress further, but sometimes you measure progress and success with the little weights. It’s not always 20kg increases. For example, today I added 1kg to my belt squat. Some people would say what is the point?  It that small increase was lifted for 3 sets of 15 reps – which meant I lifted and additional 45 kgs and because I wasn’t stressing or straining and risking unnecessary injury, I was able to squeeze in additional set too. That was a 14.97% increase on my max volume for that exercise. That progress was spurned on by adding 2 x 0.5kg plates! I’d say that was a bit of a result! 

Now don’t get me wrong, it can sometimes feel a bit intimidating when you’re adding those tiny weights to the bar – I sometimes ask myself “what will everyone think?” But let me share this secret with you…

Everyone is focussed on their own workouts! The gym is not a place for judgement – so get out of your head! And stop judging yourself whilst you are at it too!

Small things can make the biggest difference, they really can. So next time you think that you want to progress but not sure you’re ready for a 5, 10 or 20kg increases, don’t forget those little plates that can also help you progress. 

TIB