Thankfully, the easiest way to get results is maintaining motivation. It becomes difficult both mentally and physically to work hard when you no longer have the drive to do so. Energy also plays a key factor into working out- feeling tired and lazy after you get home from work and the last thing you want to do is work out. Lack of sleep or even TOO much sleep affects our state of mind, preventing us from finding motivation to work out.
I find the following help me the most when it comes to training- trust me they work. Be prepared to see results!
Maintain Motivation
As aforementioned, maintaining motivation is the hardest part of training. But there are many ways to keep your motivational levels high. Create a dreams board by placing photos of those who inspire you. Put it in a place you see everyday . . . mine's my phone wallpaper! Read quotes and trawl through fitness blogs, even facebook pages to find motivational pictures. Everytime I feel lazy and almost decide not to go to the gym, I take a look at my phone and off I go! I often find buying new gym wear/shoes as a treat always motivates me to work out!
Get changed straight away
The most popular time to train for the majority of people is later in the afternoon. Con: you're probably tired and feel super sluggish and the last thing you want to do is train. The hardest part of training is actually GETTING to the gym. Come home, drop your bags, get changed straight away and put on those runners! Now you have NO excuses!
Get an accountability partner
It's difficult to find motivation to train by yourself. Working out with your best friend or gym buddies can help you maintain dedication to your gym routine. Push each other to meet your goals and you'll often find you will learn new things! Consider how inspiring it is to help someone reach their goals!!
Sign up for smaller goals Whether it be to lose 5 kilos in one month or 10 kilos in 3- the goal may seem a little daunting at first. Consider cutting them down to smaller goals, ie. 1 kilo a week. This will make it more feasibly for you to reach your goals!
Pump out the stress and frustration
Stress is a chronic factor to ruining our day. We can at times be too mad or stressed to be in the right state of mind to workout. But most often a nice long run or a pumping boxing class is exactly what you need to release the stress and welcome the endorphins! Happy hormones remember? Release your anger, frustration and anxiety with every single punch! This keeps healthy emotions and a healthy heart.
Think of your gym membership
This one is an easy one... think of the cost of your gym membership and how it's such a waste to NOT go. You might as well make the most of it! Most gyms offer classes and superb facilities which can be expensive as a casual member! Don't let it go to waste!
Think of those sexy bikinis
Think about what you will be wearing over the summer! Or even better yet, think about what you WON'T be wearing! If you're keen on looking fab in that bikini or you just work out to look good naked, stop reading and head to the gym NOW!Save room for indulgence
Work hard, play a little harder. Always save a little room for indulgence. Whether it be a day to yourself, a nice cheat meal or heading out for a drink- whatever it is, you deserve it! Always be sensible, you don't want to undo the hard work you've done but restricting yourself of too many things always results in binging. There's no such thing as diets or prohibition. Everything comes in moderation!
Be resourceful
Feed your mind, body and soul with knowledge! Knowledge is power and you can never learn too much. Learning new things will keep your workout diverse and will help you reach your goals quicker!
Always believe even when no one does,
W. xxx
