Pushing Through the Middle: Why Perseverance Is the Secret to Fitness Success


Apr 20, 2025

 by Theresa Struck
Share

Pushing Through the Middle – Why Perseverance Matters in Your Fitness Journey

Starting a fitness journey is exciting—there’s a fresh sense of purpose, new goals, and a surge of motivation that makes showing up easy. The end of a journey is also rewarding—progress is visible, accomplishments are celebrated, and results are undeniable.

But what about the middle? The phase where excitement wears off, progress slows, and motivation feels harder to find?

This is where most people struggle. It’s easy to stay committed when you feel energized and see results, but real transformation happens in the middle—the part where you must keep going even when it feels like nothing is changing.

If you’re feeling stuck, unmotivated, or questioning your progress, you’re not alone. The key to success isn’t about avoiding these moments—it’s about learning how to push through them.

2. How to Stay Motivated Through the Lulls

Celebrate Small Wins

One reason people lose motivation is that they focus only on big milestones. But progress is happening every day, even if you don’t see it immediately.

  • Are your workouts feeling easier?
  • Are you recovering faster?
  • Do you have more energy throughout the day?

These are all signs of progress. Tracking them keeps you engaged and reminds you why you started.

Tip: Keep a small journal and write down one thing each day that made you feel strong or proud.

Find New Challenges

The middle phase can feel repetitive. Shake things up by:

  • Trying a new workout style
  • Setting a short-term goal (like increasing weights or improving endurance)
  • Joining a group class for a new dynamic

Keeping things fresh makes it easier to stay engaged.

Revisit Your “Why”

Motivation comes and goes, but purpose stays. If you started your fitness journey to feel healthier, stronger, or more confident, remind yourself of that.

Write it down, say it out loud, or set reminders. When you connect with your "why," quitting becomes less of an option.

3. Overcoming Mental Barriers

Your mindset plays a huge role in your ability to persevere. When you feel like giving up, ask yourself:

  • Would my past self be proud of where I am today?
  • What happens if I quit now? How will I feel later?
  • What’s one small step I can take to keep going?

The more you challenge negative thoughts, the easier it becomes to push past them.

Final Thoughts: Keep Going – The Results Will Come

Fitness isn’t just about the physical changes—it’s about building mental resilience. Every time you choose to keep going when it gets hard, you’re strengthening not just your body, but your mindset.

The middle of the journey is where true growth happens. Stick with it, trust the process, and remember—you’re closer than you think.