How to Get Motivated to Workout
Justin McCarthy-Contreras
Published November 17, 2022
Shut the door. Drop the bag and take your shoes off. Sit on the couch after a day of work not wanting to do anything tasking. You have goals to look fit, but stay on the seat. How to get motivated to workout gives tips to stand up!
Before grabbing that TV remote to start Netflix, stop. Is watching a television show or movie a step towards your goals?
You know they aren’t, but lack motivation to leave the couch and workout. Instead of changing clothes you get off the couch and walk into the kitchen for a snack. Once again, eating certain foods might satisfy your craving, but doesn’t help your body.
What is stronger, your mind or food?
How to Get Motivated to Workout?
Set goals that follow your mission. Please read Set Goals article to learn more. Results won’t appear from one workout, but many. Mental inspiration to continue is cultivated by hard work.
It’s tough to get motivated to workout. The truth is, sometimes you just have to force yourself to exercise—and that’s okay! If you’re looking for some easy ways to get more excited about working out, read on. Follow some of these steps to motivate yourself off the couch!
Schedule
Write down the day and time you plan to workout. This is a time you have free before or after work, school or other events. Add a calendar note for the time assigned to a workout. You are more likely to follow through by scheduling a period of time to exercise. Throughout a day at work, for example, the note encourages you to achieve a goal.
Gather Equipment
It’s time to get new workout gear. You need to feel comfortable, good, and ready to workout with new equipment. You want to look and feel great too!
Picture sitting on the couch again while exercise equipment is placed in another room. Knowing you don’t have to leave the house again should inspire you to use the exercise ball or bands, for example. Read our articles about fitness equipment and shoes for more options.
The best way for you to get motivated is by starting a new gym routine or serious training program. New clothes with equipment can help you stay energized, focused, and motivated when working out!
Choose the Right Workout
If you’re having a hard time getting motivated to work out, try something new.
- Attempt different workouts (Altering speeds in cardio or lighter weights for strength endurance), classes, and instructors
- If you always go for a run in the morning, try going at night instead
- If you are bored going to the same gym consider trying a studio’s group fitness class or pilates!
Everyone has different motives and types of workouts they enjoy. Discover yours by attempting new exercises until one or several target your interests. Once you do and set goals, working out becomes a satisfying part of your day instead of another daily chore.
Your workout plan’s intent is to achieve goals that motivate you. Write a SMART goal the exercise sessions aim to accomplish. The practice should fit your schedule and fitness level (Learn about SMART Goals at this link).
Key aspects to keep in mind when writing a plan:
What type of exercise do you love? Whether these are cardio or weightlifting exercises there are many options for each. Speak to friends who might have other workouts they engage in such as Zumba classes or swimming. When tired of running every week you can try adding a new plan to the mix.
Will available free time work with the exercise location? Confirm the gym/studio/etc. hours are available to your daily schedule. Commitment to a goal implies time spent practicing. Assess the plan will not conflict with other events such as family dinners. Schedule workouts to balance with other priorities.
How will I measure progress every month? The initial step on any path is usually the hardest. Examine how to improve after every month following the plan. This all depends on the workout type as some may be faster lap times or heavier weights, but excitement is critical. Participating in any kind of workout should be fun. Start with a plan and make goals to improve yourself mentally and physically!
Find a Workout Buddy
Find a friend or partner who is just as motivated as you are. Having someone to work out with not only helps your motivation but also makes the workout more enjoyable. Working out with a friend or partner is less boring which will make you more likely to stick with your workout routine.
Safe, competitive workouts move both of you to excel. Exercise in a group provides an extra thrill to beat records while aiding your goal.
No matter what type of goal it is—weight loss, muscle gain, endurance—there’s bound to be someone out there who shares the same passion for achieving their own health-related goals as yours!
Getting Motivated?
If you’re having trouble motivating yourself to workout, try these tips! You’ll be able to achieve your goals and have fun doing so.