In last week’s post I spoke briefly about my fitness journey, and how I lost over 40lbs and kept if off for the past 10 years. Yes ladies, over 40 whole lbs!  If you missed the tea, Check it out here!
Perseverance and determination are absolutely necessary to stay the course, but I wouldn’t be as on top of my game if it weren’t for my accountability squad, #Teamsnatched. Yes, that’s our name! When I tell you our group is poppin’, just know we get it done! Yaaaasss! So I’m here to share 3 key tips on how to build a lit accountability squad, to keep you on course during your fitness journey!
1. connect with like minded individuals.Â
Connect with people who have the same passion for the journey! Not just the talkers, but the doers. People who are putting in the work. My fitness accountability started with just one of my closest girlfriends. We both wanted to commit to a weekly workout routine, and just overall healthy living. So we decided to do it together. We started each week by stating what we’d commit to for the next 7-days, and from there we’d check-in once the workout for the day was complete. It was wonderful, especially on those days when I didn’t feel like it. I had that extra push in knowing a pair of emoji side-eyes would come my way, if I missed a check-in!
Now, our group has grown to about 5 solid! We post videos clips of our workouts, check-in while at the gym, and ultimately CELEBRATE our progress and daily triumphs! It’s amazing! #teamsnatched is where it’s at for us! Â
If you’re seeking to start a group, be sure to connect with those who share that same level of commitment to the journey.Â
2. Give just as much as you’d like to receive.
I feel that often times in these groups, we only look to receive. However, you have to give as well. Don’t just wait around for others to check-in on you, but be sure to return the favor. Be aware of what your group members have been up to. If a day or two has passed and they’ve gone “ghost”… check-in to see what’s going on. You made the commitment to keep your girl accountable. Remind her of why she started, and let her know you believe in her.Â
Our groups isn’t just about check-ins, we’ve built a community, and it has truly impacted my consistency. We are involved and truly vested in each others’ success.Â
Your group will only be as good as you make it, so be sure to contribute, and give 110%. Be present, engage, and encourage!
3. Remove the weak links. #nojudgmentÂ
This isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary. About a year ago at a birthday brunch, the original #teamsnatched duo, (myself and my good girlfriend), happened to mention our fitness group to the table of 9 ladies. Actually, I think she spilled the beans, (you know who you are, lol). It was nearly the start of the new years so of course everyone wanted to join! I was skeptical, but I wanted to believe it could work. So we added about 5-6 other ladies to our group. We were about 8 strong.
The first week wasn’t bad at all. However, as the weeks progressed, the check-ins were much less frequent. Overtime, it became evident that the lack of engagement from some, started to affect the overall tone of the group. So a decision had to be made. We checked-in numerous times, and ultimately had to give notice to those who weren’t able to commit. Now there is no judgment, and when they are ready, we will welcome them back with open arms. However, to keep our momentum going, we had to address those who weren’t living up to the standard.Â