We all know that it’s tough to get started, and it’s even tougher to commit to a lifestyle of exercise. If it were easy, we’d all be bodybuilders! But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Mustering up the will to exercise and commit to a routine is within everyone’s reach—it’s just a matter of finding ways to motivate yourself to work out.
Plan Your Workouts
Make exercise a priority. You can do so by planning out and writing down when you’ll work out on a calendar or in a planner. This, also, helps you stay accountable and committed to your workouts. By writing them down, you’ll be making an appointment for yourself rather than trying to stick to an abstract idea. This way, it will be much harder to brush off or forget. Nothing stops you from skipping these appointments, per se, but it will put you into a mindset that is less likely to do so.
Record Your Progress
One way to keep pushing yourself is by recording your progress after every workout. Many people begin to lose motivation because they don’t notice any improvements and feel like their efforts are in vain. However, progress is gradual and difficult to detect until there’s a drastic change. By recording your progress, you’ll be able to visualize the progress you’re making and keep track of your performance.
Mix Up Your Routine
Variety is the spice of life, and it’s no different for exercising. Repeating the same routine over and over will quickly lead to burnout. Regularly try new routines or add new exercises to keep your regimen feeling fresh and engaging. Boredom is your greatest enemy when it comes to motivation, so try to have some fun with your workout! Working out doesn’t have to be a chore, and fun will always be one of the best ways to motivate yourself to work out.
Start Eating Better
While a good diet is already a pivotal supplement to any workout routine, improving your diet is also a great way to alter yourself psychologically. By forsaking processed foods and choosing healthier, cleaner options, your body will feel far more energized and ready to tackle any challenge. Eating processed and junk foods may also be leaving you feeling sick and sluggish, which is obviously going to affect your motivation to work out.
Keep it Enjoyable
Exercise doesn’t have to equate to suffering. You can do different things to make exercise more enjoyable if you don’t like to exercise. For instance, you can involve a friend, you can play music or watch your favorite show while exercising, you can find an activity that you like, or set up challenges with others.
Apply the tips delineated above to help you stay motivated so you can make exercise a habit and part of your weekly routine.
