The Olympian Approach: 10 Ways to Build a Disciplined Fitness Routine

If you’re among the many people eagerly watching live updates from the Paris Olympics, you may have begun feeling a little (or a lot) inspired. Observing these exemplars of peak physical and mental fitness can motivate you to improve your health and well-being, even if Olympic competition isn’t in your future.

You don’t need to be a Simone Biles or Stephen Nedoroscik to apply an Olympian’s dedication to your health and well-being. You can achieve remarkable progress by aiming high and embracing the same commitment to excellence. Remember, the essence of an Olympian is to dream without limits. As Michael Phelps said, “Don’t put a limit on anything. The more you dream, the further you get.”

Ready to get started and achieve your newfound Olympics-inspired health and wellness goals? Here are ten coaching tips to help you remain disciplined long after the Olympics are over.

1. Commit to Excellence

Dreams are important, but you also need determination, as former American track and field athlete and four-time gold medalist Jesse Owens said in his famous quote: “We all have dreams. But in order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline, and effort.”

So, embrace the high level of commitment that Olympians show toward their training. Go above and beyond your ordinary effort and commit to the excellence you want to see in your life.

2. Find Your Passion

Many Olympic athletes have spoken about the enormous passions that fuel their success. As Kerri Walsh, American beach volleyball player and three-time gold medalist, said, “Passion is a huge prerequisite to winning. It makes you willing to jump through hoops, go through all the ups and downs, and everything in between to reach your goal.”

Likewise, American speed skater and eight-time medalist Apolo Ohno said, “Without passion, you won’t do something 100 percent. That’s the bottom line.”

Emulate these athletes by discovering an exercise you genuinely love. When passion fuels your fitness journey, discipline comes naturally. Approach your health and wellness enthusiastically, transforming it from a tedious obligation into a source of happiness.

3. Strengthen Discipline Like a Muscle

You might not see yourself as particularly disciplined now or believe you can uphold the discipline seen at the Olympics. However, it’s important to recognize that discipline is like a muscle that grows stronger with practice. In time, it could become your strong suit. Olympians embody this principle. As Olympic gymnast McKayla Maroney said, “Don’t practice till you get it right, practice till you can’t get it wrong.”

Start with small, consistent actions and remain disciplined in small ways at first. As you consistently work this muscle, it will gradually become more effortless, enabling you to tackle increasingly difficult challenges.

4. View Obstacles as Opportunities

How many Olympians have faced obstacles on the road to the Olympics, only to overcome those obstacles and win big? In one prominent example, Simone Biles pulled out of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics to protect her mental health; she returned to the Games this year better and more successful than ever.

When faced with challenges in your journey to better health and well-being, adopt the mindset of an Olympian. Do what you need to do to overcome the obstacle at hand, and then use that experience to further your success — rather than give up altogether.

5. Fuel Your Body with Nutritious Choices

You may have seen clips featuring Norwegian swimmer Henrik Christiansen and his fondness for the chocolate muffins in the Olympic Village. Yet, it’s common knowledge that an Olympian’s diet extends far beyond such indulgences.

It’s crucial to nourish your body with wholesome, nutrient-rich foods that align with your fitness objectives, thereby facilitating a smoother journey toward achieving those goals. Just as an athlete meticulously selects their fuel for peak performance, so should you in your pursuit of optimal health and fitness.

6. Prioritize Rest and Recovery

Similarly, suppose you’ve spent time on social media watching the behind-the-scenes of the Olympics. In that case, you’ve likely noticed the Olympians taking to Paris and exploring the city during their off time. While highly dedicated to their crafts, they recognize the importance of mental and physical rest. Similarly, schedule time in your routine for recovery to prevent injury.

7. Embrace the Mindset of a Champion

The Olympic mindset is focused, resilient, dedicated and tough — and it needs to be. As Scott Hamilton, American figure skater and 1984 gold medalist said, “Adversity and perseverance and all these things can shape you. They can give you a value and a self-esteem that is priceless.”

8. Utilize Accountability

Even solo Olympians who do not perform in team sports have teams of individuals behind them, holding them accountable. Similarly, set up an accountability team for yourself. Workout partners, health coaches, and even habit tracking apps can all be useful resources.

9. Start Slow and Build Upon Small Wins

Most Olympians have been working toward the Olympics since childhood. No one becomes an Olympian overnight.

Start with manageable exercises and celebrate each small victory; these incremental achievements will fuel your motivation and help you steadily climb toward your peak.

10. Seek Professional Guidance

Lastly, just like an Olympic athlete, consider hiring a coach for personalized and professional guidance. A health coach can help you refine your goals, develop a tailored fitness plan, and provide the motivation and accountability needed to stick to your routine.

The Bottom Line

Anyone hoping to improve their health can adopt many of the same approaches that Olympians take in their careers. All it takes is a little dedication, passion, and the right support system. By applying the above tips, you can cultivate the discipline necessary to maintain a fitness routine that is both challenging and sustainable, much like the training of an Olympian.

Looking for further guidance in creating or sticking to a fitness regimen and seeing results? Arootah Health Coaches can support you. Get started with a complimentary results coaching call today.