“If this was easy, everyone would be doing it!”
Chances are, if you’ve ever been to one of my group fitness classes, I’ve yelled this phrase to you. Because it’s true…working out IS hard! It takes commitment and willpower but sometimes it is the absolute last thing you want to do. The problem is, if you allow yourself to, you’ll come up with every excuse in the book as to why you don’t need to exercise to the point where your training plateaus. Any of these sound familiar?
“I sat down at my desk three times so that’s basically three squats”
“I skipped the free donuts at the office, so I’m good”
“The burrito I ate at lunch was so heavy…. #armday”
“Honestly, I’ll just workout harder tomorrow”
If you’re guilty of any of these thoughts, you’re not alone. Here are my top tips for staying motivated for post-work workouts.
REMEMBER YOUR WHY
Most people just want to be healthier but it’s important to remember what your goal was when you started on this fitness journey. I suggest writing it down and placing it in a spot where you can see it every day to help motivate you. For instance on your bathroom mirror or the refrigerator door. Your goal should be something that is very important to you. Was it to lose weight, build muscle or increase flexibility? Be specific!
HAVE A FITNESS PLAN
Would you remember your appointments without the help of your smartphone reminder? Probably not. That’s why scheduling your workouts a week ahead will keep you on track. I like to schedule all my workouts for the week on Sunday, so that I know exactly which days and time have been blocked out for ‘me’ time. Not sure where to start? Oh you better believe there’s an app for that! My favourite fitness apps that give you a detailed weekly workout guide are Kayla Itsines Bikini Body Guide and Nike Club Training.
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
Getting dressed for your workout the moment you walk in the door is a real attitude game changer, and I’m not talking about the ripped t-shirt and sweatpants look. Having a great gym wardrobe can get you pumped up to hit the gym. Researchers have found that by simply putting on exercise gear, you are more likely to get into the right frame of mind to start exercising, and it will make your workout more effective too. Who said shopping isn’t good for us?
MIX IT UP
Boredom is a serious motivation killer so try something new! I like to add variety and excitement to my workout plan by incorporating different styles of group fitness classes. Signing up for new classes also inspires you to take on new challenge. I recently started spinning at SoulCycle and boy oh boy has it been a humbling experience! Not to mention that pushing yourself to try new challenging workouts helps avoid burnout and plateauing.
FOLLOW FITNESS ACCOUNTS
If you’re like me you probably scroll through the ‘gram 50 times a day. Now what if half the accounts you scrolled past were boss babes hitting the gym? Wouldn’t you feel inspired to join the movement? I know I am! Seeing others achieve their own fitness goals is major motivation and could be the extra push you need to get you off the couch.
I hope these tips help keep you motivated throughout the week! What tricks do you use stay motivated for post-work workouts?
