Originally published on pinoria.com
The benefits of regular exercise are both physical and mental. However, some people struggle with routine workouts, which is because of how they view exercising. So, how can a person mentally prepare to follow their exercise routine successfully?
In this article, David Reagan – Atlanta-native and a fitness expert – shares his tested and true tips to get yourself motivated, even for the most routine workouts:
Get Dressed
Sometimes when we are feeling particularly lazy or unmotivated, it can be extremely tempting to not want to change out of our pajamas or whatever we had on for the day, and that can sometimes be an excuse to skip the gym. With that in mind, force yourself to get dressed in your workout gear, whether you feel like it or not, and you will already start to feel more motivated to get to the gym.
Grab a Buddy
If you are going through a streak of feeling unmotivated, get your friends or family members involved. First, it’s more fun to work out with a pal, and second, if you make a commitment or plan with them, you will be a lot less likely to break it.
Tell Yourself It’s Just X Minutes
If you break down what percentage of the day your workout will take up, it is likely extremely small. Think of it that way and you will feel a lot more motivated to get it done. Another mental trick is breaking up the time in your mind. So, if you plan to work out for one hour, think about it as only two half-hour increments, or only four increments of 15 minutes. It’s all about perspective.
Visualize Success
Our minds are extremely powerful and we need to learn how to use them to the best of our abilities. When you are feeling unmotivated, close your eyes and think about how you feel after a workout; that gritty, sweaty feeling of accomplishment. You can also visualize yourself in that new dress, or your biceps popping in pictures on the beach. Whatever your version of fitness success is, visualize yourself achieving it and let the motivation run to you.
Reward Yourself!
Tell yourself that after you work out you can have a mimosa at brunch or get your nails done. If you really enjoy shopping, make it a habit to get your workout done before you head to the store. That way, your mind will automatically associate getting the workout done with something you enjoy. If you are looking to purchase an expensive item of clothing or a new wardrobe for a trip or upcoming season, think of that and think of how much better and more confident you will feel in those clothes if you stick to your workout plan.
Challenge Yourself
This is a great tip to keep up your motivation. By constantly adding a new challenge, whether it is heavier weight, longer workouts, or more complex moves, you will keep yourself motivated and feeling great by seeing improved strength and resistance. It will be enough to make you want to keep going.
Switch It Up
This tip is similar to challenging yourself, but by switching up your workout routine, whether it is the location, the duration, or the activities you do in it, you will keep your workout feeling fresh and fun and it will be a lot easier to motivate yourself to get it done.
We understand that sometimes finding the motivation is the hardest part of a workout, especially if you have become bored with your workout routine. Try a few of these tips and you will find yourself more motivated and excited to get your sweat on.
About David Reagan
David Reagan is an Atlanta-based NASM Certified personal trainer who specializes in weight loss, personalized workout plans, bodybuilding, and nutrition. He caters to high-end clients and executives in Atlanta, Georgia, helping them achieve their fitness goals by accommodating their busy schedules. The client’s needs come first, and David’s fitness plan will set you up on the path to success.