In order to stick to a workout regimen, you’ll need more than just willpower; you’ll need a plan. Here are some methods you can use to stay motivated:
Prepare
There are a number of different aspects that will factor into your workout routine. Your physical comfort is one thing that is paramount; if you are not comfortable, that will push you away from wanting to work out, consciously or subconsciously. Make sure that the sneakers you are wearing fit your feet well, and invest in workout clothes, including a sports bra for women and briefs or boxer briefs for men. If you’re the type to need music to pump you up, make a playlist before your first outing. If you’re easily bored or your mind wanders, try downloading an audiobook.
Work Out Early
There are many benefits to working out earlier in the morning. It will get your metabolism going, and should provide you with more energy throughout the day. Working out early also gets it off your mind for the rest of the day, decreasing anxiety for those who are apprehensive about working out. For procrastinators, working out in the evening is something that can be pushed back a little bit until it’s dark or you have to go to bed soon, whereas early morning workouts can’t be pushed back.
Make It Social
Plan your workout routine with a friend or significant other. The two of you will be able to keep each other honest, with one pushing the other whenever the other doesn’t feel like exercising. Working out with a friend is also simply more enjoyable, and becomes fun bonding time, something to look forward to rather than dread. Extra points if you go to the gym separately, since you won’t want to let your friend down by failing to show up.
Use A Personal Trainer
Some people won’t have friends interested in working out, or might have just moved to a new city where they don’t know anyone. If so, try using a personal trainer. Even if you don’t lack for a gym buddy, personal trainers can be an invaluable resource, as they know which workouts are most effective for you and will be able to help you set achievable goals and keep you to them. There are a number of very high quality sources of personal training in the Deerfield Beach area.
Utilize a Reward System
If there’s something you like to do, or like to have, use that. Wherever your personal joy comes from, deprive yourself of it until you finish a workout routine. If there’s a particular drink you love, reward yourself with it after a gym trip. If you’re really into that audiobook from before, make sure you don’t listen to it when you’re not exercising. Whatever you choose, discipline yourself not to have access to it except as a reward.
