THE POWER OF CONSISTENCY IN FITNESS: WHY STICKING TO A ROUTINE MATTERS FOR EVERYONE

If there’s one lesson I’ve learned in my years as a fitness instructor (and as a mum of two lively kids), it’s that consistency is key. When it comes to reaching our fitness goals, nothing matters quite as much as sticking to a routine. But recently, I was reminded just how tricky it can be to maintain consistency—for both the instructor and the people in the classes.

Picture this: a regular class got cancelled due to low attendance. Shortly after, I heard from one of my participants who was disappointed because they needed a consistent routine to stay on track with their fitness. And they’re right—consistency is essential! But here’s the thing: that same person hadn’t attended a class in over 30 days. It’s like a catch-22. People want a consistent schedule of classes, but for that to work, they also need to show up consistently. So let’s talk about why showing up matters, for everyone involved, and how a lack of consistency impacts us all.

Consistency for Fitness Progress

In fitness, the secret sauce to getting stronger, fitter, and healthier is showing up—regularly. Think of it like building blocks. Every class, every workout, every session is a block that helps construct the foundation of a healthier, stronger you. When we’re consistent, we see improvements over time. Small steps build on each other, creating progress that feels rewarding.

Now, what happens if you skip too many sessions? Well, you start losing some of that progress. And trust me, I know life can get busy, kids need attention, work demands pile up, and motivation dips. But every time we choose to skip, it makes it easier to skip the next one too. Before we know it, the routine we worked so hard to build starts to fall apart.

The Impact on the Instructor (and the Class!)

Let’s be real here—when attendance dips, it impacts me as the instructor just as much as it impacts the participants. For classes to run, there needs to be a steady group showing up. I love what I do, and I want to help everyone stay on track with their goals, but without a solid group consistently attending, it becomes hard to keep classes going. It’s heartbreaking to cancel a class or have a low turnout because, as an instructor, I’m dedicated to my participants’ progress and well-being.

Consistency from the participants keeps the energy alive, motivates others, and makes each class feel like a community effort. When you show up, it’s a boost not only for you but for everyone in the room, including me!

The Vicious Cycle of Inconsistency

This brings me back to that tricky cycle we sometimes fall into. A class gets cancelled due to low attendance, which then causes people to look elsewhere for consistency. But the cancellation itself often happens because attendance has been low, to begin with. I understand the frustration—I really do. When we’re trying to build a routine, it’s disruptive when a class isn’t there.

So how do we break out of this cycle? It starts with a commitment from both sides. I promise to keep showing up, bringing energy, and planning a class that’s fun, effective, and supportive. In return, I need my participants to make that same commitment to their fitness goals.

Why Consistency Builds Confidence and Motivation

When we keep showing up, no matter what, we start to feel stronger, not just physically but mentally too. There’s something powerful about committing to a goal and sticking with it. For me, as a 44-year-old mum who juggles work, family, and my own fitness goals, I know the satisfaction of showing up even when it’s tough. And I see that same strength growing in the participants who make fitness a regular part of their lives.

Every time you attend, you build up a little more self-confidence. You realize, “Hey, I’m doing this. I’m making time for myself.” You begin to trust yourself more, and fitness feels less like a chore and more like a habit that makes you feel amazing.

Tips to Stay Consistent Even When Life Gets in the Way

So, how do we stick with it when life throws curveballs? Here are a few strategies I’ve learned along the way that help me, and my class participants, keep showing up:

• Set small, realistic goals: Instead of aiming to attend every single class, start with two or three a week. Consistency doesn’t mean doing it all—it means sticking with what you can manage and building from there.

• Make it non-negotiable: Treat your fitness class like an important appointment. I know, as a mum, it’s easy to put ourselves last. But taking care of yourself benefits everyone around you too.

• Get a workout buddy: Finding a friend or someone in the class who also wants to stay consistent can help. You can motivate each other, and it’s harder to skip when you know someone’s counting on you to be there.

• Remember why you started: Whether it’s for energy, strength, health, or a bit of “me-time,” keep that motivation close. On days when I’m struggling, I remind myself that I always feel better after a workout.

What Happens When You Keep Showing Up?

The biggest reward of consistency is seeing yourself improve. When you stick with it, you’ll start noticing changes—not just physically but in how you feel. Your energy increases, you feel less stressed, and you gain the strength to tackle everyday tasks more easily.

And guess what? You inspire those around you too. Your dedication can be the reason someone else finds the courage to start their journey. There’s a ripple effect that comes from each person’s consistency. It boosts the whole class, the instructor, and anyone who sees your commitment.

Let’s Make a Commitment Together

I’m here, ready to help you every step of the way, but I need your help too. Let’s make a commitment together to prioritise consistency. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about showing up, week after week, to build something truly lasting.