Consistency is King and the Best Time to Start a Training Routine

Dr. Stuart Phillips, a professor at McMaster University and largely considered the preeminent researcher on resistance training and protein metabolism, recently wrote that when it comes to strength training, “consistency is king.”  He states, “No one program has all the answers. The secret to effective strength training is consistency. While the type of exercise is important, sticking to a routine is even more crucial. The research overwhelmingly shows that those who consistently engage in strength training, regardless of the specific method, see significant improvements in strength and overall health.”

I agree with him. 

The next question we need to ask is: How do I stay consistent?

One of the best ways to stay consistent with an exercise program is to commence the program at the ideal time.

When is the ideal time?

When you are busiest.

Stressed. 

Too many irons in the fire. 

Struggling with an injury. 

Too much on your plate professionally. 

And… problems in your personal life.

In summary: The ideal time is… the time in your life that appears the least ideal.

When you start an exercise habit, don’t start it when all the stars are aligned, and you have bandwidth.  Because when life becomes more complex (and it inevitably will), you’ll be unlikely to stick with the plan. 

Instead, pick an approach to exercise that will be sustainable when life gets challenging.