In this episode of Coffee + SpWolfPack with Stephen & Julie, we tackle one of the most common struggles in fitness: hitting a workout slump. Whether it’s from missing a few days, feeling mentally drained, or pushing through a series of rough workouts, we’ve all been there. And, as Stephen says, much like Thanos declared in Avengers, “I am inevitable.” Slumps are just part of the journey—they will happen. But the good news? Overcoming them is absolutely within your control.
We kick things off by recognizing the telltale signs of a slump, which often creep in through life stress, mental burnout, or physical fatigue. Whether you’re avoiding the gym, feeling disconnected, or battling negative self-talk, knowing what’s happening is the first step to turning it around. Stephen shares his personal strategy for slumps: when he feels one coming on, he doesn’t force himself into intense workouts but instead chooses something that looks fun. He scrolls through old Street Parking workouts, starring the ones that spark joy for those inevitable low-energy days. For him, it’s often about finding workouts with movements like running, cleans, and pullups—ones he can cruise through without feeling overwhelmed.
On the flip side, we dive into the deeper mental challenges that come with a slump. Julie offers wisdom on practicing self-compassion and the importance of starting where you are—not where you were. By setting realistic goals and lowering the bar, you give yourself room to get back into the rhythm without unnecessary pressure. The key is to start small, focusing on just getting moving and building momentum over time.
We also discuss how slumps can affect more than just your workouts. Stephen admits that his diet tends to slip when he’s in a rut, often leading to unintentional calorie deficits. On the other hand, I open up about how I emotionally eat during slumps, gravitating towards comfort food to cope. These patterns can derail progress further, so it's crucial to be aware of how different people experience and respond to these challenging periods.
Lastly, we talk about the power of community. Re-engaging with your accountability group, whether it’s a local gym or an online space like Street Parking, can make a massive difference in helping you come back stronger. Reaching out doesn’t just reduce the feelings of shame or isolation that slumps often bring—it also reminds you that you’re not alone. Your community is ready to support you, and getting comfortable leaning on others is a powerful step in bouncing back.
Closing Thoughts:
No matter how long you’ve been off track or how deep the slump feels, remember: setbacks are temporary, and every effort to come back is a victory. Recognize the slump, respond with self-compassion, and re-engage with the support around you. You’ve got this.
Call to Action:
Have you hit a workout slump recently? Share your story with us or connect with someone in your community for support. Let’s all keep each other moving forward—together!
