Growth Mindset Gains: No Gym Selfies Required 

First things first — what is a growth mindset?

Think of it like this: A fixed mindset believes you’re either born with it or you’re not. You know — “I’m just not a runner” or “I can’t do push-ups unless they’re metaphorical.” A growth mindset, however, says, “I’m not there yet — but give me time, a bit of effort, and the right playlist, and I’ll get there.”

It’s the difference between sulking after a bad workout and saying, “That was character-building — now pass me the foam roller.”

Why it matters when the going gets tough...

Let’s be honest: fitness journeys aren’t all green smoothies and glute gains. There are wobbles (mental and literal), missed workouts, and days when the only thing you're lifting is your mood.

Here’s where the growth mindset earns its keep. Rather than seeing setbacks as proof you’re not cut out for it, you start viewing them as part of the process. You didn’t fail — you just found another way not to do a plank.

Loving the grind (or at least not loathing it)

A growth mindset helps you value the process — not just the numbers on the scales, or whether you can finally do that fancy yoga pose without falling over and swearing. It’s about celebrating the little wins: one more rep, one more walk, one less biscuit (or... maybe just slightly fewer biscuits).

You stop aiming for perfection and start focusing on progress. And that, my friends, is where the real magic (and muscle) happens.

So, whether you’re training for a marathon or just trying to make it through a spin class without shouting "traitor" at the instructor — remember: it’s not about being the best. It’s about getting better. One sweaty, stubborn step at a time.

Now go out there and embrace the glorious mess that is improvement.

Phil - PTBI