Never Skip Workouts Again: Ways To Find Workout Motivation
Planning and setting goals is one thing, but committing and building consistency to accomplish them is another. There are many mental and lifestyle changes you have to make in order to stick to a fitness routine in the long run.
A majority of us know that sedentary life is bad for our health. Studies show that it doubles the risks of diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and increases the risk of high blood pressure, lipid disorders, colon cancer, osteoporosis, depression, and anxiety. However, even with that knowledge, most people are held back by a mental narrative that; they are too tired, out of shape, too busy, or feel uninspired, overwhelmed, and discouraged. This happens because humans are habitual creatures, and it is easier for them to continue doing something from a formed habit than to try something new out of their comfort zone. There are a few ways on how you can break free from those mental and physical hindrances. Keep reading to find ways to find inspiration, discipline, and consistency needed to commit to a workout plan.
- Find Workouts That You Enjoy
Start by finding out the kind of workouts you find interesting. Try kickboxing, dance classes, or yoga. Figure out if you are into paintballing, swimming, or golfing. Find out if you love online classes or home classes.
Additionally, find the type of workouts that fit your mental, personal, physical, or social needs. For instance, if you like challenges, you can try High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) or training for a race. If you are easily bored by workouts, you can try Wii or Zumba. And if you want less structured exercises, you can try running up the stairs.
- Find Inspiration
As you know, exercise offers various health benefits, such as giving you younger-looking skin and protecting against depression. However, knowing is not enough to keep you committed. You need something greater to push you.
You need to be inspired. Keep in mind that motivation and inspiration are different. Inspiration is internal, while motivation is external.
To commit, you need to find out what fires your heart. You can imagine your body in one year or think of a friend who has managed to turn around his/her lifestyle. Alternatively, you can compete with yourself or with your friends. Studies show that a person is more likely to work out in competitive groups than in non-competitive groups.
- Create Accountability
Having someone check your progress can encourage you to workout simply because there is a person “watching.” You can find a workout buddy or a fitness trainer. If you do not have a close person to hold you accountable, you can look for fitness forums and share your progress and goals.
- Start Small
Start small and modify your workouts to make it easier for you to start. It is easier to form a habit if you can stick to easy and short sessions. While it is easier to sustain your routine when you start small, you need to be specific. You can therefore commit to jogging or walking on a treadmill for 10 minutes each week.
- Reward Yourself
Gamify your training by giving yourself a treat each time you complete a milestone. For instance, you can watch an episode of your favorite series after each session. You can also go for facials or a massage each time you complete 5 workouts in a week. 
