January rolls around every year, and with it so do reams of new members at gyms far and wide. Not long after, these very same people have been swept up in a cycle of laziness and procrastination.
We understand that cementing a workout routine can be hard, especially when you have a busy schedule, but it’s time to ditch the excuses and look at ways that you can make it an unbreakable part of your everyday routine.
Take up an activity you enjoy
Hate jogging? No problem. No one is going to dictate the type of exercise that you do, just so long as you keep it consistent. Now is the time to take up an activity you enjoy, whether that is something brand new or something you’ve enjoyed in the past.
Choose an exercise that you hate, and it’s much more likely to overpower your will, causing you to stop doing any activity altogether. Discovering something that you enjoy will help you to look forward to working out rather than dreading it and putting it off.
Schedule your workout at a time that’s best for you
Don’t use your busy schedule as an excuse not to work out. A lot of people with high-pressure jobs, families, and other commitments find the time to stay fit so why can’t you? The trick is to find a time to work out that suits your daily schedule, whether that be early in the morning, on your lunch break, or late at night. Experiment with different times, and you’ll soon figure out what works best for you.
Have a workout plan
Don’t just make a set time for your workouts; make a plan of action once you get there. A lot of beginners struggle to know where to place their focus. They’ll turn up at the gym, do a few exercises, get bored, and leave after 30-minutes. If this sounds like you, don’t be surprised that you’re not seeing results.
Use your time wisely, so you know exactly which exercises you’re doing and how many reps of each. A plan can keep you motivated to work out and can help you learn about each of the muscle groups that you’ll be working each day. It’s always recommended that you discuss your fitness goals with a professional so that they can advise you on the best exercises to fit into your routine.
Exercise with a goal in mind
Was exercising regularly one of your New Years’ resolutions? Well, think of where you’d be now if you’d stuck to it. Having a goal in mind is one of the biggest motivators because it gives us an answer to the question ‘why are you working out?’ Your goal could be something like improving your health after an illness, training for a physical challenge, or simply because you want to look good on the beach on your next holiday. Whatever it is, keep it in mind at all times, especially when you’re struggling to get those extra reps in at the gym.
Get support and accountability
A lot of people find that if they work out with a partner, they feel more motivated to push themselves harder than they would alone. In fact, research has even proven that this is the case. Having someone alongside you when you work out will also increase your accountability. Joining a small group, such as Prestige Boot Camp, will allow you to be part of a support system that you can lean on even when you’re stuck in a fitness rut.
