What's wrong with hitting a plateau?

[SRP]

Okay, maybe I'm using the wrong term here, but I couldn't think of a better one. My question is, what's wrong with reaching a point where you stop gaining strength, muscle size, cardio endurance, whatever... if you're satisfied with where you are?

It seems that wherever you look, it's always about more and better, and constantly changing. Change is good. Don't get me wrong. But you know, aside from a few genetic curses, I'm fairly satisfied with the way I look, and with my fitness level. I don't really want to have Arnold-sized muscles or be able to run 100 miles in a day. So why do I always have that sneaky little urge to buy heavier dumbbells or pedal even faster on my elliptical during Cardio Coach?

 

[lioness]

I constantly ask myself this question. I don't want to stop working out but I think maybe at some point I won't want to workout. I am fairly satisfied with how I look and I'm healthy but I guess what keeps me going is my age. I'm 46 and I want to continue to stay or slightly improve my muscle mass and fitness level. I have found that I am more motivated to staying fit in my 40's than I was in my 20's. I strive to lift heavier and run longer, etc.

One of the great things is that I have been challenged and have found ways to workout in different ways. First with Taebo and now with Cathe. I also went to a fitness boot camp for a year and learned so many great things. Now I am training for a 10K so the variety has keep me motivated and challenged. It's not just about looking good or losing weight. It's just fun.

 

[Beavs]

because you are a bright and talented woman who thrives on challenges...

 

[Fit_mommy]

I think that if the motivation to lift heavier, run faster, etc were not there then I would eventually lose my motivation to work out altogether.

That's why **I** always push harder even though I am also very happy with my physique and fitness level as it stands right now.

 

[LauraMax]

What they said. }(

There's nothing wrong w/reaching your fitness goals & being satisfied w/them. What keeps me going to the gym, & what I truly enjoy, is pushing myself. I might go for 6-12 months without trying to increase my weights or lose 5 lbs. Then I might go for 6-12 months where I'm at it like gangbusters.

Funny thing is, no matter where I am psychologically & how hard I push myself, I still don't get dramatic results.

Anyway, if you're happy with where you are there's no need to stress about it. I know we're all OCD to a point & aren't happy unless we have something to fret over. But if you can, be proud & enjoy reaching your goals!