With all of the snow and freezing temperatures the country has been experiencing, I thought writing a blog post about how to stay motivated in the gym would be appropriate for this time of year.
I’ve always been super motivated when it comes to working out. I think that the hardest part for me has been waking up at 4:30am to get a quick workout in before my long shifts at work.
So how have I stayed motivated to work out all these years? I have always tried to have a goal in place to keep me motivated, like a marathon or fitness challenge at the gym. My friends have also helped by keeping me accountable for my 5am workouts. Having friends waiting for you at the gym makes getting to 5am workouts so much easier! Another reason I’ve stayed motivated all of these years is because I’ve always enjoyed my fitness routine— if you don’t enjoy your workouts, then you’re not going to want to head to the gym or fitness studio to workout!
Let’s chat a little more on how to stay motivated in the gym:
Write your workouts down:
Buy a journal or a planner….or even use your Google calendar to schedule your workouts for the week! Once you have it written down on paper you can cross it off each day! You can also use a journal to write down how you feel after a workout. Then on the days when you’re feeling a little less motivated, you can take out the journal and read all of the things you have written down previously to help motivate you!
Switch up your workouts:
If you’re bored with your same gym routine, switch up your workouts! Add in a group class 1-2x week. Class Pass offers multiple classes and is a great way to try something new! You may end up finding a new class that you really enjoy. Trying new classes is always a little scary at first, but it’s such a great way to step out of your comfort zone and prevent you from getting bored from the same gym routine!
Use new equipment:
If your workout routine consists of strictly using weights and cardio equipment- change things up! Add in kettle bells, medicine balls, TRX equipment, or sliders. You may find some new equipment that you enjoy using! If your not sure how to use some of the equipment, reach out to a trainer at the gym, they’re there to help and will help prevent injury if it’s your first time trying something new!
Workout with friends:
Running and working out with friends has always been a HUGE motivator for me. I trained for my first 4 marathons with friends. They were always there to keep me accountable for my 5am workouts or runs and pushed me to become a stronger runner! If you don’t have friends who enjoy working out, that’s ok too! Trying a group fitness class is a great way to make new friends, especially if you have just moved to a new city. I didn’t have any girlfriends when I moved across the country, but through Body One Fitness and the Tone it Up community, I met some of my best friends on the west coast!
Have a goal to reach for:
Signing up for races has always been a huge motivator for me. But what if you don’t run? Does your gym have any fitness challenges you can join? If not, set up a mini- challenge for yourself! For example, you could aim to get to the gym 5x / week and have a little prize at the end for accomplishing that goal! Remember to set realistic goals though! If you currently workout 2x / week- setting a goal for 6 days / week might be too much at first! Try increasing your workouts to 3x/ week then as you get comfortable with that routine you can always add more! Also, remember to write your goals down so you can revisit them daily!
Eat healthy!
When you eat unhealthy, processed, and high-sugar foods, your body doesn’t get the energy it needs to workout. These foods make you feel tired and unmotivated. Try to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and veggies and enough carbs, protein, and healthy fats! You’ll feel better with a well rounded nutrition plan and have more energy to crush your fitness goals!
Treat working out as an “outlet” or form of therapy:
I’ve always treated the gym and running as a form of self care. Before the busy day begins and I take care of others at the hospital, i’ve always made it a priority to take care of myself and have some “ME” time.
Make a kickass playlist!
Having a good playlist is always a huge motivator for me to hit the strand for a run! I’m always so excited when I have new music to listen to! If you’re looking for a new playlist- follow me on Spotify. I love putting new playlists together!
