Coming from someone who has been passionate about fitness, exercise, and sports for as long as I can remember, I have to admit: the drive doesn’t always come easy. No matter your level of dedication or goals, the eventual “fitness slump” is practically inevitable. Even so, “the slump” isn’t necessarily a negative thing and it certainly doesn’t have to make or break your physical progress.
What is a Fitness Slump?
In my own words, a “fitness slump” means to loose motivation or dedication for a short period of time. Essentially, your slump might feel like a series of “off days.” You know, those days when you just don’t feel your best. Ladies, you might notice this happening during Aunt Flo’s monthly visit. And, that’s okay. Experiencing a fitness slump might be unavoidable, but what truly matters is how you respond to your slump.
Luckily, with a little intentionality and focus, you can beat your fitness slump in no time. Not only can you beat, but you can also become better, faster, and stronger in the process!
How to Overcome a Fitness Slump
Use these tips and tricks to overcome your fitness slump and get back to your old self!
Plan Ahead of Time
When struggling to find the motivation, scheduling your workouts ahead of time is a game changer. However, you might also consider planning your workouts in advance. Determine when you’ll run, lift weights, focus on mobility, etc. Make sure you have each workout written down to a T, so that there’s no confusion or excuses when it’s game time.
Find an Accountability Partner
As I’ve mentioned before, finding an accountability partner is useful in more ways than one when it comes to fitness goals. Ask a friend, family member, or co- worker to join you in reaching your fitness goals. You might even consider using your four-legged friend as an accountability partner. I guarantee they’ll love being your teammate!
Change It Up
Boredom makes anything exceptionally challenging. If you’re sick and tired of repeating the same workouts, don’t be afraid to mix it up. You might even consider cross-training to prevent boredom. In cross training, you’ll use various workouts (ie. running, hiking, weight lifting, yoga, pilates, stretching, etc) to improve every aspect of your fitness. This also helps prevent plateaus by keeping your mind and muscles guessing!
Head Outdoors If you’re feeling uninspired with your go-to gym or at home workout routine, there’s perhaps no better solution than taking your workout outdoors. Getting your sweat on outside can make you feel more energized, happier, and less tired than doing the same workout indoors.
Make It Fun
If you don’t enjoy your workouts, you’ll be much less likely to stay consistent. Just because your best friend loves CrossFit, doesn’t mean it will be the right fit for you. Find what you enjoy! Unconventional workouts that you might not have considered yet, include: group HIIT classes, kickboxing, martial arts, dancing, mountain biking, etc. Find what you love and do it unashamedly!
Go Shopping
If your budget allows, find yourself some new workout gear. It’s true what they say: new clothes help boost confidence, which naturally encourages motivation. With new workout clothes, you’ll be much more likely to stay consistent with your workout routine. After all, you can’t let all your new, cute clothes go to waste!
Overcoming your fitness slump might sound complicated or difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re dedicated to your fitness goals, you can beat your slump and get back to your old self in no time. And if not, it might be beneficial to give yourself a break. It’s okay to give your mind and body some well-earned rest. Take a week or two off from your workouts. When you get back to it, you’ll be recharged, reenergized, and ready to tackle those goals!
