Struggling to squeeze in that Saturday spin class? You're not alone. Many people find it difficult sticking to a regular workout routine. But with a few habit tweaks, it's possible to find the juice to get moving.
Just try these 4 ways to get motivated to exercise:
1. Don't wait for motivation
Australian trainer Michelle Bridges has famously said she doesn't wait for motivation to exercise: "Motivation's like a bad boyfriend – never there when you need it!"
Can we get an amen? Michelle says rather than wait for motivation (or inspiration) to strike, focus on consistency. It's the same way brushing your teeth twice a day keeps cavities at bay – it's just something you do, on a regular basis.
We like her 10-minute rule: "Give yourself a get out of jail free card – start doing something active and if you still don't feel like it after 10 minutes you can stop. Chances are you'll finish what you've started."
2. Do something you love
If you can't stand gyms and group classes, ditch them! Fitness is way more fun if you actually like what you're doing. Whether you enjoy swimming, running on the beach, tennis, or even roller derby, you'll find time flies without worrying about how hard you're working out.
3. Rally the troops
If we only listen to the little voice in our head, it's easy to skip a workout and flop onto the couch instead. But if you've promised your friend a Sunday cycle or morning walk, you'll be less likely to pull out. Having a training buddy can help you both stay on track – and motivate each other when you're feeling unmotivated.
4. Change your language
The words we choose have a big impact on whether or not we reach our goals. For instance, saying "I should exercise" makes it feel like a chore or an obligation. But if you say, "I want to be healthier" or "I want to run around with my kids", you may be more likely to stay focused and achieve your fitness goals.
Looking for a little more help to stay motivated? A personal trainer can help.
Originally published on Apr 09, 2018
