Motivation is key to having a successful workout routine. (ESB Professional / Shutterstock.com)
It is widely known that working out offers a multitude of health benefits, but that doesn’t mean it’s always an easy feat. As motivated as most of us are when we begin training, after some time there are literally a thousand things we’d rather do. So to help you get the best results, we put together some tricks to make working out easier and help you stick to your exercise routine. We’re not saying you’ll always wake up excited to exercise, but these six simple changes will make this whole workout thing a little bit easier.
1. SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS
Celebrate the large and small victories, prepare to embrace your setbacks, and keep track of your goals or what you’re looking to accomplish at the end of the day. The best thing about exercise is that it will still be there the next day, even if you haven’t been to the gym in a month. You can always start a new routine. Be kind to yourself if you stumble, because you can always try again the next day.
2. BRING A FRIEND
There’s a reason many people use the buddy system and that’s because it works. When you need a little bit of motivation, ask a friend to workout with you. You’re more accountable to your exercise regimen when someone else is counting on you to show up. You’ll push each other to get the most out of your workout and maybe even have a good time in the process, but at the very least, you’ll show up.
When you need a little bit of motivation, ask a friend to workout with you. (Studio 72 / Shutterstock.com)
3. STICK TO WHAT YOU LOVE
Not into running? Try Zumba, swimming, Pilates, yoga, salsa dancing, tennis, etc. Avoid workouts you don’t love because it makes it that much harder to find the motivation to get moving. If you mix up your routine and find activities you enjoy, it won’t seem like an inconvenience to your day, but something to look forward to.
4. PICK A TIME THAT WORKS FOR YOU
For many people, that session first thing in the morning is the best time to work your muscles and get it out of the way. For others, after work is the ideal time to go to the gym or do a home workout. Experiment with different times until you find one that you can maintain and works for you. Then, stick to your schedule for at least six weeks. Once you see results, you’ll be even more likely to make time for exercise.
5. INVEST IN YOUR HEALTH
We don’t suggest that everyone spend the money, but if you have the budget, join a gym. If you’re seeing the money come out of your bank account every month, it’s harder to justify skipping an entire week. If you don’t have the money, buy some new running shoes, or workout gear. Studies have shown that if you feel good in what you’re wearing, you’ll be more motivated to break a sweat. Don’t have $80 to drop on a pair of leggings or shoes? There are plenty of budget friendly options that will still make you feel good.
Good looking sports equipment doesn't need to be expensive and will motivate you to work out. (pinkdeer / Shutterstock)
6. GET PLUGGED IN
Make a playlist or download an app like jog.fm for a nice distraction. Jog.fm plays music from your library to synchronize with your speed, so you won’t have to worry about switching songs when you want to rev up your workout. While there are plenty of people who prefer to exercise without music, research has shown that listening to your favorite artists can improve performance by 15 percent and we’ll take all the help we can get.
