The Science Of Failure
January can feel like a month of impossible expectations. While instafit models are peddling "no excuses" and "push harder," today we're talking about something more important: being gentle with yourself.
The Science of Self-Compassion
Recent research shows that people who approach wellness with self-compassion rather than self-criticism achieve more sustainable progress. It's not about pushing through pain or forcing motivation - it's about understanding that progress includes rest, recovery, and sometimes, reset.
So what you ate an entire pizza? Workouts need fuel.
What Research Actually Shows
A recent study of 569 adults found that people with higher self-compassion were more successful at maintaining physical activity because they:
Experienced less psychological distress
Had more confidence in overcoming obstacles to exercise
Were better equipped to handle setbacks
The science suggests it's not about motivation or willpower - it's about how you handle the inevitable bumps in the road. Turns out beating yourself up isn't the motivational tool you thought it was.
Why Gentleness Works Better Than Guilt
When researchers measured how people respond to personal failures and setbacks, they found something fascinating: those who approached struggles with understanding rather than harsh judgment were significantly more successful at sticking with their goals.
Every attempt at change, even ones that don't stick, creates neural pathways that make future attempts easier. Your first few visits to West Coast Fitness were probably awkward and intimidating, picking up weights that immediately informed you of your hubris, and developing an intimate relationship with post-workout soreness. Now you navigate the gym like a pro, only occasionally get lost looking for the water fountain, and understand that leg day soreness is just your body's way of making stairs interesting.
Your Complete Wellness Toolkit
At West Coast Fitness, we understand that wellness goes beyond workouts. That's why we offer:
Sauna sessions reduce cortisol (your stress hormone)
Red light therapy supports both cellular and mental recovery
Massage therapy decreases anxiety while soothing muscles
Personal training provides accountability without judgment
A daylight lamp to help combat shorter days
Group workouts that offer trauma bonding and fist bumps
Your worth isn't measured in minutes on a treadmill or pounds on a bar. Coming to the gym isn't just about physical health - it's about taking care of your whole self.
If you're struggling, please know you're not alone. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) is available 24/7, and there are people standing by who want to help.
Sometimes the strongest thing you can do is ask for help.
We're all here for you,
Your West Coast Fitness Family
PS: Bruce's services will be 1/26 at 1:30 at Lacamas Lake Lodge. His family would people to RSVP if they're coming and to wear Green Bay packer gear, dark green or gold. https://everloved.com/life-of/bruce-rodabaugh/
