How I Built a Consistent Fitness Habit and Transformed My Life

My fitness journey really began in earnest about a year into COVID. While I had always been diligent about walking and hiking—leveraging my time-tested method of parking far away from my destination—I wasn't in a regular rhythm of strength training or high-intensity cardio. I knew I wanted to build a more structured fitness routine, but I also understood the power of starting small. I found a local gym, Row House, that had a great community vibe and great coaches that would help provide the motivation I needed in the beginning to push myself out of my comfort zone. So, I began by attending the shortest class available: a 30-minute session, twice a week. I reminded myself that doing something toward my goal is always better than doing nothing.

As time went on, I started to feel stronger and wanted to push myself further. I increased my sessions to three times a week and then added in a weekly session with a trainer focused on time-under-tension reps to combat muscle atrophy. Now, after logging over 2,000,000 meters on a rowing machine, I can look back on this journey with pride.

The benefits have been undeniable. I have more energy throughout the day, I sleep better at night, and most importantly, I’ve found joy in working out. What once felt like a task has become a fulfilling habit. I truly enjoy the feeling after a great workout.

Of course, there were plenty of moments when I didn’t feel like going. Days when I was tired, the weather was cold, I hadn’t slept well, or I just wasn’t feeling my best. At times, I missed my workout sessions, and there were even stretches—like when I had the flu or COVID—where I had to take a few weeks off. But I always came back. I kept showing up and doing the work.

And for that, I am proud of myself.

I am proud of myself for staying committed, even when quitting would have been easier.

I am proud of myself for focusing on my ‘why’—to stay strong, healthy, and present for my children as they grow, and to one day enjoy a long, active life with my future grandkids.

I am proud of myself for building a lifelong habit that positively impacts every aspect of my life.

My fitness journey has been transformative—not just because I’ve gotten stronger, but because I’ve learned to enjoy doing hard things. I love the feeling of pushing myself beyond my perceived limits, moving from low energy to a state of high energy.

This journey has reinforced an important truth: consistency pays off. The hard things we commit to doing today shape the person we become tomorrow.

What have you continued to work hard at and are now starting to see the fruits of your labor? I’d love to hear about your journey!