Whether you’re a regular gym-goer or just starting your fitness routines, there are times when motivation seems difficult. You might struggle to get to the gym, complete a home workout, or even go for a simple run or walk. This is completely normal, and everyone faces this challenge at some point.
Having clear, realistic goals is essential for staying motivated. Break down your long-term objectives into smaller, manageable goals. For example:
Long-term goal: Run a marathon.
Short-term goal: Run 5 km three times a week.
By doing this, you’ll experience a sense of achievement faster and more frequently, which can help keep you motivated.
Create A Routine
Consistency is crucial for building habits. Try to work out at the same time each day, whether it’s early morning, during your lunch break, or in the evening. Creating a routine helps make exercise a regular part of your day, and will be sometimes be done and accomplished without a second thought.
Workout With A Friend
Having a friend to work out with can make a huge difference – especially for people who enjoy the social aspect of fitness. Having a fitness partner can provide support, encouragement, and a bit of fun and friendly competition. Plus, it’s harder to skip a workout when someone else is counting on you to be there.
Mix Up Your Routine
Doing the same routine day in and day out can become monotonous and feel tedious. Change up your routine by trying different variants such as:
Gym: Alternate between cardio, strength training, and group gym classes.
Home workouts: Use online sources such as social media (TikTok, Instagram, Facebook) to find new workout videos or routines.
Outdoor activities: Run, cycle, hike, or take a walk in different locations with different scenery.
Track Your Progress
Keeping a log or using a fitness app to track your progress can be incredibly motivating. Record your workouts, noting what you did and how you felt. Seeing your progress over time can boost your confidence and keep you committed to your goals.
Change Your Mindset
Sometimes, the biggest barrier to exercise is a mental one. Try to change your mind set about working out:
Focus on the positives: Think about how good you feel after a workout, rather than the effort required to start it.
Visualise success: Picture yourself achieving your goals and enjoying the process.
Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself on tough days. It’s okay to have off days; what matters is getting back on track.
Struggling with motivation is something everyone experiences at times. By setting clear goals, creating a routine, finding support, and keeping things interesting, you can overcome these challenges and stay committed to your fitness journey.