The Real Driver Behind Your Training Success
The most important part of your training journey isn’t discipline. It isn’t your program. And it’s not even your habits or routines (though those help).
It comes down to your motivation style — more specifically, your why.
When you understand why you train, consistency, habits, and discipline stop feeling forced. They become a natural byproduct of having a deeper reason to show up.
Without a clear why, even the best plans tend to fall apart.
The Psychology Behind Motivation: Self-Determination Theory
Psychologists call this concept Self-Determination Theory (SDT).
Developed in the 1980s by psychologists Edward Deci and Richard Ryan, SDT explains why people stay motivated — or lose momentum — over time.
According to the theory, motivation falls into two main categories:
Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Motivation
Extrinsic Motivation
This type of motivation is driven by external rewards or pressures — things outside of you.
Common gym-related examples:
- “I want abs so people will admire me.”
- “I don’t want to be judged.”
- “I want to prove people wrong.”
- “I want recognition or validation.”
Extrinsic motivation can work in the short term — but it often fades once the reward disappears.
Intrinsic Motivation
Intrinsic motivation comes from within. The activity itself becomes the reward.
Examples in training:
- “I love how I feel after I train.”
- “I’m curious about what I’m capable of.”
- “I enjoy the process of building myself.”
- “This is who I am.”
This type of motivation tends to last longer, leading to:
- Greater consistency
- Long-term commitment
The 3 Psychological Needs That Sustain Motivation
Self-Determination Theory also highlights three core psychological needs that keep people motivated over time:
1. Autonomy
Feeling like you have choice and ownership in what you do.
When training aligns with your values, it becomes empowering — not obligatory.
2. Competence
Feeling capable and seeing progress.
This isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about skill, strength, and growth.
3. Relatedness
Feeling connected to others.
Belonging to a supportive community increases motivation and accountability.
How This Applies to Your Training
Here’s what Self-Determination Theory can look like inside the gym:
🔁 Shift “Have To” → “Get To” (Autonomy)
Instead of:
“I have to work out today.”
Try:
“I get to challenge myself and see what I’m capable of today.”
Ask Yourself the Most Important Question
Why do I train?
If the answer isn’t obvious, that’s okay.
Take time to reflect on:
- How training makes you feel
- Who you’re becoming through the process
- What training adds to your life beyond appearance
That reflection is often what reconnects people to their motivation.
Ready for Guidance?
If you:
- Don’t know where to start
- Feel stuck or unmotivated
- Want structure, clarity, and accountability
👉 Book a consultation call and let us help you uncover your why — and guide you toward the next step in your journey.
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Yours for GREATER strength,
Peter Law