A large percentage of females have self-esteem issues. They constantly look in the mirror and think, “I’m so fat. I’m not pretty. I’m not good enough.” Unfortunately, many women just hold in all these feelings and make themselves feel even worse. This is not the answer! Before you can begin to improve your self-esteem, you will have to recognize and admit that you have an issue. Once you have recognition of the issue, you can start putting together a plan for working on the problem. Working out is one way to improve how you feel about yourself.
I remember my mother telling me as a young girl, “Do not slouch down. Pick up your head, shoulders back, and walk like you can conquer the world.” Those are words I live by and will never forget. To help boost my self-esteem, I started exercising, including playing sports. After working out or playing a sport, I felt a sense of accomplishment, a feeling a self-worth.
Always remember, you are working out for YOURSELF–not for anyone else.
Here are some tips on how to start making improvements in your self-esteem:
- Look in the mirror and say that you are BEAUTIFUL no matter what
- Begin to see what areas you feel you want to emphasize change in (could be tighter abs, stronger legs, more toned arms).
- Join a gym, play a sport, work out at home, walk during your lunch breaks. (Any little change creates positive energy!)
- When working out or training, repeat to yourself, “I can do this! Nobody can stop me. I rock!!”–or whatever makes you feel great about yourself.
- At the end of each day you exercise, pat yourself in the back and congratulate yourself on a job well done.
- Remember that you are in charge of your life. Be proud, strong, and CONFIDENT!
Note: Exercise is a great way to boost self-esteem; however, it should not be considered the only way. Sometimes, serious problems like eating disorders, depression, or medical conditions require more than just a workout regime to resolve. While Lucille Roberts isn’t equipped to advise on these matters, we do encourage any woman who struggles with them to seek care from a doctor or mental health professional.
Trainer Tip by Gisela Andalia, group fitness instructor and personal trainer at Lucille Roberts Jersey City.
