Exercise is an extremely important factor when it comes to your health. But many people find themselves struggling to get to the gym, a fitness class or even take a walk around the block. You might wake up tomorrow morning, motivated and prepared to workout at the end of your workday. But by the time 5 o’clock rolls around, you find yourself making an excuse to not exercise, but rather head home and sink deep into your couch.
The following tips can help you reach your fitness goals and never miss another workout again…
Your Regimen, Your Choice
Many people find themselves signing up for expensive gym memberships, then never stepping foot inside. Some get self-conscious surrounded by strangers and others find it motivating. Maybe the treadmill is your favorite piece of equipment for cardio, or maybe you’d rather take a run at the park. There are countless programs and videos of workouts you can do at home, away from the crowd. There are also many businesses dedicated to strictly fitness classes, where you can be motivated by a teacher and others. No matter your preference, all that matters is that you do what makes you comfortable. Because when you don’t enjoy the fitness routine you signed up for, you’ll most likely skip it.
Recruit a Partner
If you don’t give yourself enough motivation, or find that you constantly talk yourself out of exercising, you may want to find a fitness buddy. Working out with a partner will not only motivate you, but make you accountable for your workouts. Committing to another person makes it harder to break your workout routine and make excuses. Studies have shown that when you partner up, the results are significantly better. Longer workouts don’t seem as long when you have someone with you, plus, a little competition never hurts.
Challenge Yourself and Others
Speaking of competition, another trick to sticking to your workout routine is challenging your workout buddy, friends, family and even strangers to reach specific goals. Bet dinner or even the cost of a gym membership as a prize for consistency and meeting goals. Join or start a fitness challenge. For example, challenge a friend to see who can bank the most hours in fitness classes or who can lose the most weight in a month. Even phone apps exist where you can challenge strangers and help each other stay accountable and inspire each other to keep moving. With friendly competition comes motivation, especially if a prize is on the line.
Hire a Pro
If you find that you need a little more of a push, a personal trainer may be just what you need. Though they don’t come cheap, personal trainers act as coaches, driving you to reach your goals and keep you motivated. Of all your options, a trainer will keep you the most accountable. Not just because you’re paying them with your hard earned money, but because it’s their job to get you off the couch and moving. Again, remember to stick to what makes you comfortable. Some trainers will come to your home, others join you at a gym and some even have their own studios. Do your research and talk to a few different professionals to ensure you pick the right one for you.
