Find out what drives the experts to make the extra push and learn all about what gives them their motivation to work out!
Motivation to Work Out | Keeping the Eyes on the Prize
1. Stick to a Workout Schedule
Have you ever felt the satisfaction that comes with being able to fulfill all your appointments and schedules, or checking all of your tasks off of your t0-do list? Treat your workout schedule the same way. Schedule your workout like you would any other appointment or important date. Set the time and what exactly you’ll be doing. It’s not just about being reminded of your schedule, it’s more about reminding you to stick to your commitment.
2. Allow One Temptation a Day
Diet plans that are too restrictive have a tendency to break. Give yourself something to look forward to and adapt to the system comfortably. Allowing yourself a treat every day prevents you from breaking loose and binge eating. Nonetheless, it is worth noting that a treat doesn’t mean eating that slice of cake every day. You still have to go for healthy treats that can satisfy your craving but without the added sugar and calories.
3. Think About the Reward
Most often, you’ll lose sight of the bigger reason why you’re working out. Focus on the reward and what will ultimately happen if you push yourself forward. It’s a great workout motivation tip to always focus on your fitness goals and finally going down a couple of clothing sizes. Go to the gym straight after work, complete the day’s exercise, and slowly but surely reap the fruits of your labor.
4. Dress Your Best
Treat your workouts like a fun event you’re excited about. Plan what to wear ahead of time. One of the main reasons you’re working out is to get into shape and look good, so why not boost your morale by wearing exercise clothes that make you feel sexy? Shopping for workout clothes is always a good motivation as you want to sweat but look great while working out.
5. Mix It Up
Doing the same exercises or eating the same meals day in and day out can affect your motivation for fitness. There’s more than one way to get to your goal, so mix it up and keep it exciting. Research different ways to work your abs, chest, and back muscles, then incorporate them to your program. Learn how to prepare a new healthy dish to add to your diet. Changing it up gives you a new set of challenges, which will push you more to overcome them.
6. Jam to Your Tunes
Nothing else can get you in the mood better than music. It gives you that energy boost almost instantly. Make your own playlist of songs to jam to during your workout routine and notice how pumped up you are.
7. Meet New Workout Buddies
There’s no mistaking that being with like-minded individuals will motivate you to achieve your fitness goals faster. This is because you know you have a bunch of people supporting you, and it’s also a good feeling to motivate others at the same time. You can either take a new class or invite a friend. Either way, try and make new friends at the gym or wherever you’re training. A support group is always nice to have.
8. Have Healthy Competition
Motivate yourself to step your game up by maintaining a healthy competition with others. It doesn’t always have to be competing with another person. Often, gyms organize contests among its members to motivate everyone by providing them with one simple goal. The prize at the end may be the primary motivation for you. But once the challenge is over, you’ll see how you personally benefited from it, too.
9. Think About You
We all know about the many health benefits exercise provides to our physical being, yet it doesn’t end there. It’s also known to reduce stress and elevate your mood. You’re happy and you feel like a different person when you step inside the shower room after a workout. These awesome mental effects are immediately felt after you finish a hard day’s exercise. For many, that’s enough motivation already.
Sometimes, we have to be creative in our approach to achieve our goals. What may work for you may not work for others. This is why it is important to determine your goals, your motivation to work out, and how to stay motivated. Find something to look forward to and revel in knowing you’re only going to become a better version of you after your daily grind at the gym.
Tell us about your own list of workout motivation tips. Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
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