There is no better feeling than completing a workout that leaves you energized and gratified. Physical exercise at any age and intensity level has only positive outcomes, as long as you don’t overdo it. However, there are times when you don’t feel like working out and have trouble getting motivated to do so. This can be temporary or a prolonged slump. Here are six Ideas to help you stay motivated to work out.
1. Set an Alarm
One of the best ways to stick to your exercise routine is to get moving first thing in the morning and get it over with. If the thought of working out brings on a feeling of dread, don’t give yourself all day to think about it because chances are you’ll say, “I’ll do it tomorrow.” Set your alarm for an hour before starting your day and make exercising, showering, and eating a healthy breakfast a part of your daily routine.
2. Mark Your Calendar
If you are like most of us, you are using a calendar app that keeps track of your schedule. For those of us who are busy, this calendar also serves as a to-do list that pings to remind us when something needs to happen, and will continue to ping every 15 minutes until the task is completed. Put your workout on that calendar for specific days of the week and stick to the schedule. If one daily workout doesn’t fit into your schedule, like a hot yoga class, have the app or fitness watch ping every 45 – 60 minutes to remind you to get up out of your seat and move for at least ten minutes.
3. Set Realistic Goals
Having goals can be fun, especially when they are achieved. Working out is a choice, not a mandate. But that choice comes with rewards. Perhaps you want to shed a few pounds or want to improve your cardiovascular health. Write down these goals and keep track of your progress. Any amount of progress is an accomplishment and a great motivator.
4. Put a Playlist Together
Remember the 80s when workouts were done to upbeat tunes? Even if you don’t, this was a craze that really worked. Put together a playlist of your favorite music that inspires movement. Good tunes will make you feel like stretching, running, cycling, or dancing. This motivational trick doesn’t cost anything and is enjoyable.
5. Get a Buddy
There is no better way to remain accountable than to enlist the companionship of a workout buddy. When you pair up with a friend to work out, chances are you will remain committed to the process. Make plans to walk with a buddy twice a week or to attend a class with your friend once a week. Commitment is easier when other people depend on your support.
6. Reward Yourself
While this motivational tip is excellent, it comes with caveats. Just like our pets, we enjoy treats for good behavior. Exercise is good and healthy behavior. Elite athletes might reward themselves with a a 900-calorie pasta dinner after competing in a triathlon. But that is not a beneficial reward for most of us. Let’s say you set a goal of walking 10,000 steps four days a week. That is admirable and can be rewarded with taking a Sunday me-day with permission to sleep in and no physical activity all day.