Athlete Blog: Goal setting and my challenge to lose 15kg
Earlier this month I was invited to talk to New Zealand Boxing female team. The team consisted of up-and-coming talent, as well as the number one and number two ranked boxers in New Zealand.
Boxing, is very similar to weightlifting in that it’s a minority sport where the girls are finally stepping up, getting more involved and, in regards to performances and world rankings, giving the boys a run for their money!
I had a great time talking to these ladies, discussing the high and lows of my careers and reliving the journey of getting to where I am today.
During the evening, I emphasized the importance of setting goals, the importance of having a reminder of why they are doing what they are doing and making sure that whatever they do, that it will have a positive effect on their goals.
A key example for myself most recently, is my goal of losing over 15kgs to be in the new under 90kg category for my first international competition of 2017 (19th March).
Many of you know the battle of losing weight, especially over Christmas and the New Year, but it’s my only option if I want to go to the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
I can be quite stubborn and a little obsessed in a good way when it comes to achieving my goals. I have my parents to thank for that.
Write down your goal and be accountable
The first thing I did was write down this goal with my new coach and our high performance manager. Once it’s in writing and shared with an accountability partner, it’s pretty much set in stone.
Break your goal into bit-sized chunks
I have broken this goal down, firstly contacting a nutritionist, followed by getting in to a healthy routine and creating structure.
Last but not least, I’ve started to include cardio training into my days. Just a little bit every day.
Understand your weaknesses
I have my food plan plastered all over the pantry, fridge and cupboard so every time I go to get food it’s there in my face reminding me what I can eat and whether it’s even time to eat.
Avoiding temptation for me is a big thing, so I tend to avoid functions or events where I know the food will be glorious or hard to turn down.
I tend to not put myself in situations where I can be tempted because that would make this a lot harder than it needs to be.
Slowly I have been seeing the results of my hard work and sacrifice. Comments from my team mates, as well as gym members, makes all the pain and well sacrifice well worth it.
Don’t get me wrong, it is hard. Some days I just want to cry and eat a whole pizza, but most of the time I’m feeling great.
I’m not as strong, but happy with my progress.
Life is a little bit harder but I know once I’ve hit the goal weight, then we will start on getting my strength back up to where it was.
So, one thing I highly recommend is goal setting. For the general public, gym members or school kids.
Being able to have something to measure up to, or compare results against, is a great way to stay motivated.
Next month I update you on how my first competition as an under 90 kg weightlifter went!
Follow Tracey on her Facebook page HERE
