Getting Motivated To Workout

It sucks when you don't feel motivated to work out. Dragging your feet, spending 10, 20 or even 30 minutes debating if you should work out, feeling like you'd rather curl up on the couch and work on your goals next year... sound familiar? Here are my tips for working out even when you aren't motivated because the truth is action comes before motivation - not the other way around.

Tip 1: determine if you have a case of the lazies or actually need rest

When did you work out last? Are you sore? Are you feeling ok? How frequently have you worked out this week? It's important first to determine if your body is telling you that you need a rest or if moving your body will make you feel better! If you've worked out a lot this week, aren't feeling well or are very sore, then REST. If you have a case of the lazies, then keep reading! 

Tip 2: just get dressed

Sounds simple right? The hardest part of working out is often getting started. Step 1 to getting started? Getting dressed. Tell yourself, "I'll just get ready for my workout and then go from there." Once you are ready, tell yourself you'll try 10 minutes, and if you still aren't feeling it, you can turn it off. 99% of the time, you'll be feeling good and keep going.

Tip 3: create an appointment with yourself and write it in the weekly check-in

Whether you are attending live classes or completing the recording, think of your workout as a time set aside by you, for you. It is just as important as any other meeting on your calendar. You wouldn't bail on a last-minute appointment, would you? Don't forget to write your schedule in the weekly check-in on the membership under This Week's Classes. This will help hold you accountable!

Tip 4: don't wait for motivation

Motivation comes AFTER action. Often I hear people say that they are waiting until they are motivated to get started. I'm sorry, but that's not how it works. People who work out, eat well and take care of their bodies aren't more motivated; they are more disciplined. They do it even when they don't want to. Think about brushing your teeth - do you brush your teeth because you are motivated to do so? No, you do it because you know you need to for proper oral hygiene. The same thing goes with your workouts! You need to strength train to increase muscle mass and bone density, improve your cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of disease and illness... the list goes on! 

Tip 5: focus on your "why"

Sometimes when we don't feel motivated, it's helpful to come back to our "why." Why are you moving in the first place? Are you working out to become your #strongestself? Is it helping with your mental health? Are you focusing on getting stronger as you age? Come back to this and remind yourself that your future self will thank you for the effort you put in today.

Tip 6: act as your future self would

You know that person you are trying to become? How do they think? What do they eat? When do they work out? How often do they work out? Answer those questions - like actually write them down. Now start acting that way TODAY! You can only become the person you want to be by acting as they would.