Angelo Cavicchioni
Every year, one of the most common promises is to get in shape, but this goal is often postponed. So, why do we let it slip away? Is it just about going to the gym? Is it too late to start? In this article, we will address these and other questions that often hinder our physical training process.
The first thing that holds us back is motivation. Without it, it’s hard to see going to the gym, going for a run, or exercising at home as an investment in ourselves. So, how do we get motivated? It all starts with a clear goal. And no, it doesn’t have to be something as ambitious as running a marathon or lifting all the weights in the gym. It can be a more realistic and short-term goal, like walking 5 to 10 minutes more, dropping a clothing size, or simply going to the gym three times a week. These kinds of goals will help you stay focused and committed to your mission.
Pittsburgh Latino Magazine consulted an expert on the subject, María del Pilar Martínez, a former professional gymnast, certified personal trainer, and sports nutritionist. The first key question was: Why is exercising important?
Martínez states:
“Exercising improves mood, reduces stress, strengthens the heart, and fosters discipline.” This means that by working out, not only will you improve your physical appearance, but you’ll also gain mental benefits, a topic of great relevance today.
One of the most common doubts is whether you’re an exception, if you’re the only one not going to the gym, or if it’s related to the country’s conditions. María del Pilar attributes this thought to the fact that “The U.S. is a country where work hours are long, free time is limited, and physical activity costs tend to be high.” However, she is optimistic about the growing number of people attending workouts, both outdoors and in gyms.
Now, perhaps you’re one of those people who regularly go to the gym but don’t see results. Why does this happen? Here’s a key point: nutrition. According to Martínez, diet accounts for 80% of what’s needed to achieve the desired body. Much of this misunderstanding comes from myths about restrictive diets or uncontrolled eating. What really matters is finding a balance.
“Food is our energy source and what nourishes our body to function properly,” says María del Pilar.
She also recommends consulting healthcare professionals to get a personalized meal plan, as everyone is different and has specific needs.
If you’re a beginner and don’t know where to start, you have no excuses. In the digital age, there are specialized apps and thousands of videos on social media to guide you. Even María del Pilar herself shares how she started in the fitness world: “I learned to train by watching Instagram videos from home, and the changes I saw were incredible.”
Finally, if you feel overweight or are older, you might wonder if it’s still possible to start. The answer is yes. Although it will be a more gradual process, with time, dedication, and patience, you can reach your goals. The change won’t be instant, but with consistency and love for the process, you will achieve it.
“Start now. We live in an era where the tools are at our fingertips. Exercise can change your life. The best feeling is to feel good about yourself because no one else will do it for you. We have only one body, and we must take care of it,” concludes María del Pilar.
Remember, this could be your year of transformation!
This article was featured in the print edition of Pittsburgh Latino Magazine.
