Working out once is the easy part. One of the biggest challenges is staying motivated to continue working out once you get started. The truth is that life can get busy, and there are all sorts of to-do’s that might come before exercising. Staying consistent can be nothing short of a challenge, especially when you have multiple priorities.
However, getting in shape won’t just help you stay healthy and strong and live a longer life, it will also help you feel more confident and focused in life. It doesn’t matter whether you’re just getting started in your fitness journey late in life, or you’re trying to increase your current routine, here are some effective ways to keep up the motivation to workout.
Make it Easy
Sometimes we get burnout prematurely because we outdo ourselves too soon. Instead of immediately running 10K a day, or enrolling in a really difficult class, why not set up a home gym where you can work from the comfort of your home for no cost at all?
It can be as simple as doing jumping jacks, using a treadmill, or even lifting free weights. The more accessible you can make your workout for a reasonable price, the more motivated you’ll be to do it. After all, when you don’t even have to leave your house or pay any money to exercise, there are not a lot of excuses left to not work out!
Be realistic and easy on yourself, and as you start to see results, chances are you’ll start to feel more motivated to increase your workout routine and intensity.
Do Something You Enjoy
One of the most common reasons why people quit their workouts is because they fail to find a workout that they actually enjoy. When it’s time to work up a sweat, working out feels like more of a chore than something enjoyable. If you can manage to find a physical activity that gets you excited to do it, then you’ve already won half the battle.
Exercise doesn’t have to be a dreadful task that you loathe doing. Whether you start a dance class or swim at your local pool, chances are there are all sorts of things that can allow you to burn calories while also having fun doing it!
Find a Workout Buddy
Sometimes things that are otherwise difficult are that much easier when we have a buddy to do it with. Working out with a friend or even joining a group is a great way to boost your motivation.
Accountability is a major reason for this, and so is companionship. When someone else is counting on you to show up to your workout, you’re that much less likely to flake out. Not to mention, working out with others is fun because it makes it a social activity instead of a solo one
