Chasing Lasting Fitness Goals
On top of the world, entrepreneur Peter Barton received a terminal cancer diagnosis, prompting a life-altering shift in his value system
Understanding one's "Big Why" can significantly impact motivation and success in personal fitness
Moving away from superficial or fleeting reasons for fitness can lead to a solid, long-term commitment
Real life examples elaborate the potency of a firm and substantial 'why' towards achieving fitness objectives
The shift from an external focus (how we look) to an internal one (how we feel and function) often triggers profound change in fitness journeys
Creating a distinct vision and connecting it to your deeper values helps achieve fitness goals
Employing techniques such as visualization and journaling can help to crystallize the "Big Why"
A Wake-Up Call from Life’s Hard Truths
Peter Barton, a successful entrepreneur, was living what many would call “the dream.” But when diagnosed with terminal cancer, his world—and his priorities—shifted dramatically. Career accolades and status suddenly meant little compared to the simple desire to live fully and be present with loved ones.
His story is a powerful reminder: when you discover your “Big Why,” everything changes. And that includes your fitness journey.
Why Surface Goals Don’t Stick
Let’s be honest—many of us start chasing fitness goals for reasons like:
Looking good on holiday
Fitting into wedding outfits
Outlifting a gym rival
These are fine as starters. But when life gets busy, stressful, or chaotic, those motivations rarely stand the test of time. That’s where a deeper, more meaningful Big Why steps in.
Real People, Real Reasons: The Power of a Lasting ‘Why’
Let me tell you about two mates of mine.
One wanted to get fit for his wedding. He was smashing his workouts… until the honeymoon ended. The drive disappeared.
Another had a health scare that made him realise he wanted to stick around for his kids. That was his Big Why—and it completely transformed his consistency and mindset. Years later, he’s still going strong.
The difference? One focused on a short-term outcome. The other anchored his journey in something bigger than himself.
Internal Goals Lead to External Wins
As personal trainers, we see it all the time. Those who train for external validation often burn out or lose steam. But those driven by internal goals—like being strong enough to lift their grandkids, having the energy to enjoy life, or managing anxiety through exercise—tend to make lasting progress.
Sure, it’s great to want to look sharp in swimwear. But true transformation happens when your goals align with how you want to live, move, and feel.
How to Discover Your Fitness Motivation: Your “Big Why”
So, how do you dig deeper than six-packs and step-counts?
Step 1: Create a Clear, Personal Vision
Think about what truly matters to you. Is it staying healthy for your kids? Reducing joint pain? Feeling confident walking into any room?
Step 2: Visualise Your Future Self
Picture how life improves once you’ve achieved your goals. Imagine the freedom of running upstairs without pain or the joy of playing footie without gasping for breath.
Step 3: Write It Down
Use a journal to describe what life looks like when you're fitter, stronger, and healthier. This simple act of committing your vision to words can create clarity and accountability.
From a Personal Trainer’s Perspective: It’s Not Just About Abs
As someone who’s trained dozens of people across Liverpool, I can tell you—it’s not the strongest or fittest clients who go furthest, it’s the ones who know why they’re doing it.
A ripped body might get you double-taps on Instagram. But it’s your Big Why that gets you out of bed on cold mornings and keeps you coming back when the scale’s not budging.
This is about transformation, not just aesthetics. Let your motivation be about who you want to become, not just what you want to look like.
Why Finding Your “Big Why” Improves Fitness Consistency
When your fitness is connected to a powerful internal reason, research shows you’re more likely to:
Stick with your workouts
Maintain healthy eating habits
Bounce back after setbacks
This is because your decisions aren’t based on fleeting emotions, but rooted in purpose.
Journal Prompts to Find Your Fitness Purpose
Use these questions to discover your Big Why:
What would being fit allow me to do that I can’t do now?
Who benefits when I’m physically and mentally healthy?
What am I tired of struggling with that fitness can help solve?
Write down your answers. Read them before each workout. That’s fuel.
Common “Big Whys” from Real Clients
“To live longer than my dad did.”
“To be the strongest version of myself mentally and physically.”
“To manage anxiety without relying on medication.”
“To finally feel proud of my body.”
Whatever yours is—it’s valid, powerful, and worth fighting for.
Ready to Let Your ‘Why’ Power Your Progress?
It’s time to stop chasing temporary fixes. Whether you're stepping into the gym for the first time or getting back on track after a break, the secret to lasting results is simple:Find your Big Why. Write it down. Remind yourself daily.Once you tap into that deeper reason, you’ll train harder, recover smarter, and stay committed longer—not because you have to, but because you want to.Now, ask yourself: What’s your Big Why—and are you ready to let it transform your fitness journey?