Why Momentum Matters
“Momentum begets momentum, and the best way to start is to start.”
Just as a pendulum swings, momentum keeps you moving.
But why is this important?
Newton’s first law of physics tells us an object in motion stays in motion (unless acted upon by an opposing force).
YOU are this object.
Whether it be working out or in the form of another habit you’re trying to form such as reading or flossing your teeth, the more you repeat the action, the more momentum you have to continue to complete the action again.
But how do we build momentum?
Momentum is built when actions are repeated but in order to get that moving, we need to build up to that movement. Whether you want to mark off a calendar how many days you complete said goal or if you want to just feel the momentum do it’s thing in your life no tracking required, the first thing you need to do is start. Then repeat.
Easier said than done I know but momentum is the same reason we binge watch Netflix. We watch one, fall into another and then we are already there watching a whole season because we STARTED.
So. Lace up your sneakers, set your book by your bedside table, or pre-chop veggies for your dinner. Just the initial action brings us into movement. And the Netflix binge of healthy habits or movement continues.
-Skylar Clark, BS, ACSM