How to Stay Motivated on Your Fitness Journey
If you're like most people, you don't enjoy working out. Don't worry; it's very common. Exercise puts your body and mind under stress, presenting physical challenges. Some might even relish the challenge (whoopsie!). However, this guide is for everyone. We need to understand what we're feeling, why we're feeling it, and how to overcome mental obstacles. Here's how to stay motivated throughout your fitness journey.
Accept the Reality of Motivation
First, it's crucial to understand that you won't always be motivated. Phew, glad we got that out of the way. Remember why you started. Sure, you wanted a better physique, but as you continued exercising, you realized how great you felt. The clarity and overall benefits of exercise go beyond aesthetics, though looking good is a nice bonus. Recognize that this is a long game. Building the body you want takes time! Some people never get there, but the key is to enjoy the process & get help where you can get it to make it possible. Think of it like investing in the stock market: you consistently invest, and over time, you reap the rewards of patience and trust in the system.
Focus on Long-term Benefits
A key motivator in your fitness journey should be the ability to move optimally into your older years. There's no better motivator than being able to play with your kids and grandchildren. If not for weight loss, train to maintain the mobility you have now. Young ones don't want a grandparent or parent who can't play or jump on the trampoline with them. America has become a sedentary country, especially with many people working from home. This is why we created the first mobile fitness company in New England, delivering the gym to your home or office with a certified personal trainer to keep you motivated and accountable.
Strategies to Stay Motivated
Here are some strategies to help you stay motivated and avoid quitting:
Show Up: Sometimes, the hardest part is just getting there. Once you're at the gym, just go through the motions. You've already done the hardest part by showing up!
Accept Low Days: Remember, this is a long game. Some workouts won't be great, and that's okay. Any workout is better than no workout. Even if you reduce weights or do fewer reps, showing up consistently brings benefits.
Tips and Tools
Here are some tools to help you stay on track:
Track Your Workouts: Use a notebook or an app to log each workout. Seeing the progress over time, like lifting heavier weights, is a great motivator.
Make Lists: Completing lists can give you a sense of accomplishment. Focus on one task at a time to maintain efficiency.
Set Manageable Goals: Break down your biggest goal into smaller, more manageable steps. This makes the overall task less daunting and easier to stick to.
Hire a Coach: A knowledgeable personal trainer can keep you accountable and help you achieve your goals effectively.
Workout with a Friend: Having a friend or family member join you can be motivating. You can support and challenge each other, making the journey less lonely.
Discipline Over Motivation: While motivation is important, discipline is key. Show up even when you don't want to. Eat the healthy meal even if you're sick of it. Sometimes, you'll need to skip parties to focus on yourself. It's all for your long-term benefit.
The Most Important Tip: Just Start!
Start working out. Start eating healthier. Make these changes to become the person you want to be. It's never easy, but there are tools and resources available to streamline the process. Hire a personal trainer, bring a friend, and challenge each other. Get started on the best rest of your life today.
