Let’s Get Moving
As much as I don’t want to admit it, I’ve definitely been slacking the past few weeks when it comes to exercise. Between finishing my college courses, graduation weekend events, and the not-so-nice weather, my energy level and motivation, as a result, this past month have probably reached their lowest points in quite some time. However, now that I’m officially on summer vacation, being that I don’t start my full-time job for a little over four months, I’m slowly getting back into the swing of my consistent workout routine.
If I’m being honest, finding a workout routine that works for you can be difficult, and for me, it took many years of trial and error to get to the place that I am today with my fitness—engaging in workouts that I enjoy and can stick with, but also ones that challenge me enough to gradually improve my strength, endurance, and stamina. However, even finding that “right” routine doesn’t necessarily mean it will be smooth sailing from here on out. There will be days where you’re too busy to complete a lengthy workout, or maybe you’re just too tired and don’t feel up to it. That’s more than okay, but I’ve found that, sometimes, once you really get off track, it can be hard to fully get back on.
Now that I’m back in a routine with exercise, I wanted to share with you some tips that have helped me to become and stay motivated throughout my fitness journey.
Morning Workouts. I know not everyone will agree, but I’m a big believer in morning workouts. In my opinion, working out first thing in the morning sets the tone for a productive day ahead. I find myself to be the most energized shortly after I wake up, and in completing my workout before beginning any of my other responsibilities, the “I don’t have time for this” mentality rarely interferes with my ability to engage in exercise on any given day.
Change into Workout Clothing. Surprisingly enough, I find that changing into dedicated workout clothing can be a source of motivation for completing a day’s exercise. I know all too well how tempting it can be to stay in your everyday lounge clothing for a workout, especially if you exercise at home. However, this can also keep you in a relaxation mindset, and prevent you from gathering up the “excitement” and energy that you should have within your workouts. With that, I have found that changing into dedicated workout clothing, whether that be a matching set, a pair of spandex and a baggy t-shirt, or any form of clothing that you associate with exercise, before engaging in a workout can put you in the mindset for having a productive and energy-filled exercise session.
Eat Something Small. I can’t exercise on an empty stomach. I know some people prefer to do this, but I’m one of those people that won’t be able to fully push through an intense workout without some sort of food or drink in my system. However, I also can’t eat anything too substantial before a workout without running the risk of feeling sluggish or “weighed down”. With that, I will always have a small breakfast, typically a bowl of oatmeal or a mini protein bar, as well as a tall glass of cold water, before engaging in any form of morning exercise. This provides me with the energy and hydration, in part, that I need to complete my desired form of movement.
Plan Ahead. I never used to plan my workouts in advance. I would wake up each morning and simply do whatever form of movement I felt like in that moment. However, in doing this, I found myself “stuck” in a cycle of the same cardio workouts, without any incorporation of strength training. Now, I take ten to fifteen minutes each Sunday and plan my workouts for the coming week. This not only encourages me to engage in various forms of exercise, but it also serves as a source of accountability, ensuring that I don’t get too off track again (believe me, there are few things that are more visually unappealing than seeing an unchecked item on your to-do list).
If you’re struggling with motivation to exercise, which is especially understandable at this time of year, or even if you’re just looking to establish further consistency in your routine, try implementing a few of these tips! Change doesn’t happen overnight, but taking things one step at a time will ultimately get you to the place that you want to be.
