Summer hits. It’s hot outside. The last thing you want to think about is a workout where you spend your time working up a sweat. Or, it’s winter, and going out to exercise in the cold just seems miserable. Here are some suggestions that will help you find motivation when your brain tells you the opposite:
- Don’t let yourself get distracted. All too often, we find ourselves thinking about all the things we need to do and talk ourselves out of taking the time to exercise. Just remember that exercise time is important and your distractions will still be there when your workout is over!
- When your brain tries to take over, talk back! You keep thinking, “It’s too hot,” “This isn’t working for me,” or “I’m too tired.” Don’t let those thoughts get the best of you. Tell yourself that you can do it, take it one step at a time and that you’ll stick with it.
- Listen to your body. If you feel restless, fatigued, stiff or tired, maybe your body is trying to tell you something: you’re working too hard and you need to ease up a bit. Try doing a little more stretching and a little less cardio. And make sure you’re eating right and getting enough sleep!
- Listen to your heart. Well, not literally, but you should always choose activities that you enjoy for your workouts. Avoid doing things you dislike because they’ll become another reason for you to skip your workout!
- Try something new. Sometimes all you need is a little change in your routine to spark new intereste. Shake up the sequence, frequency or levels in your workout. Push yourself and create a challenge!
- Remember your end goals. Just thinking about why you started working out in the first place might just be what you need to keep going. Whether you’re training for a marathon or to fit into that new swimsuit, use it as a catalyst to keep going!
- Bring in the reinforcements. Seriously, if these things don’t work for you, take out a piece of paper and write down why exercise is important and why you shouldn’t quit now. Paste it on your mirror so you have to look at it every day. That constant reminder will definitely keep you going.
