The Power of Positive Self-Talk in Fitness

Let me just say this right up front: your mindset is everything.

Sure, your body does the work in the gym, on the bike, or in class. But the truth is, if your mind isn’t on board, it’s going to be a whole lot harder to stay consistent, stay motivated, and keep showing up. And I know this firsthand.

I haven’t always been the person leading the class with a smile and shouting encouragement from the front of the room. There were times in my life when I couldn’t even encourage myself. My internal voice was loud—and not in a good way. It was critical, doubtful, and downright mean sometimes. But learning how to flip that script? That changed everything.

Let’s talk about why positive self-talk matters, how it helped me get stronger (inside and out), and how you can start building that same inner cheerleader for your own journey.

Your Inner Voice Shapes Your Workout

We’ve all had those moments. You’re halfway through a workout, sweat is pouring, legs are burning, and that little voice in your head says:

“You can’t do this.”
“You’re too tired.”
“Just quit early.”

And the wild thing is, when you believe that voice, your body listens. Your pace slows, your posture sinks, your energy fades. But the opposite is just as true. When you say:

“I’ve got this.”
“I’m stronger than I think.”
“One more push—I can do this!”

…well, you show up differently. Your body follows your mind’s lead. You dig deeper. You find another gear. And that’s the magic of positive self-talk—it helps you tap into your mental strength, especially when your physical energy is running low.

How I Changed the Way I Talked to Myself

Like I said, this didn’t come naturally to me.

When I first started spin and group fitness, I wasn’t confident. I wasn’t sure I belonged in those classes, let alone that I’d one day be leading them. I’d compare myself to others constantly. I’d criticize my pace, my form, my body.

But one day, after class, a fellow participant said something that stuck with me. She said, “You’re so inspiring. You pushed through even when it looked tough.”

And I thought—Wow. That’s how she saw me? I didn’t even see myself that way.

It was a lightbulb moment. I realized I was being way harder on myself than anyone else ever would be. And that needed to change.

So I made a commitment: every single workout, I’d say one kind thing to myself. Just one.

Some days it was: “You showed up. That counts.”
Other days: “You crushed that hill.”
And eventually: “You’re strong, and this is just the beginning.”

Let me tell you—those tiny shifts added up. It didn’t happen overnight, but I started to feel more empowered, more motivated, and more excited to keep going.

How to Start Practicing Positive Self-Talk

If this is new for you, it might feel awkward at first. That’s okay! Like any muscle, your mindset gets stronger with repetition. Here are a few easy ways to build the habit:

Start with Awareness

Listen to what you’re already saying to yourself during your workouts. Are you encouraging? Or critical? That awareness alone can be eye-opening.

Create a “Go-To” List

Have a few affirmations ready to go. Write them on a sticky note, put them in your phone, or even say them out loud (yes, out loud!). Some of my faves:

• “Strong body, strong mind.”

• “Progress, not perfection.”

• “You’re doing better than you think.”

Celebrate Small Wins

Finished your workout even though you were tired? That’s a win. Showed up to class after a long day? Huge win. Acknowledge it. Positive self-talk grows when you give yourself credit.

Talk to Yourself Like a Friend

If your best friend was struggling in class, would you say, “Wow, you’re so out of shape”? Of course not! You’d say, “You’re doing amazing—keep going!” So offer yourself that same love.

A Shift That Goes Beyond Fitness

The crazy (and beautiful) thing about positive self-talk is that it doesn’t just stay in the gym. Once you start speaking kindly to yourself during workouts, it carries over into other parts of your life.

Suddenly, you're giving yourself grace when your day doesn’t go as planned. You’re cheering yourself on during tough conversations. You’re recognizing your strength—not just in how much weight you lift, but in how you handle life.

I’m living proof that changing your internal dialogue can change your life. And I truly believe it can change yours too.

One Last Pep Talk

If you take one thing away from this post, let it be this: your words matter.

The way you speak to yourself is a reflection of what you believe—and your beliefs become your reality. So speak with love. Encourage yourself. Cheer yourself on.

You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be kind to yourself.

Thanks for letting me share this part of my journey with you today. 💛

As always, thank you so much for spending a few minutes of your time with me today! Don’t forget to check out my Class Schedule for all my upcoming locations and times — I’d love to see you in class! And if you’re curious about any of my go-to products or recommendations, head over to the My Favorites page where I answer all your most frequently asked questions about what I use and love. Until next time...

...stay happy and healthy!