We all know that getting enough cardiovascular exercise is one key to keeping our veins in the best shape possible, but even the world’s best athletes have days where they just don’t feel like getting up and working out. Throw in the fact that cooler weather is just around the corner, and it can be hard to motivate yourself to get out and go for that jog or bike ride. If you’re in a workout rut or often find yourself in one, these 10 tips may help you break out of it.
1. Make an appointment with yourself.
Exercise shouldn’t be considered an optional part of your day. After all, you need it to live and thrive. Much like you would a doctor’s appointment or work meeting, schedule it in as part of your day. This leaves you without much time to think up reasons not to do it.
2. Set up a space at home.
Sometimes, the lack of motivation to exercise is more of a lack of motivation to go to the gym or park. If this sounds familiar, try setting up a place to work out in your home, either in a basement, spare bedroom, or even an empty corner of the living room.
3. Bribe yourself.
Bribery works wonders in almost all situations. Don’t be ashamed if you have to resort to it. Just don’t use a candy bar or something unhealthy. A better option is to promise yourself a new outfit or a massage if you work out every day for a week. A hot bath makes a great daily reward.
4. Find a workout buddy.
If you can’t motivate yourself to do it for, well, yourself, try doing it for someone else. For example, if you promise your friend you’ll meet them at the hiking trail at 8 am on Monday morning, it’s harder to call them and back out than it is to hit the snooze button and roll over.
5. Make visible reminders of your goals.
There may be a good reason why you’re working out. Maybe it’s to lose 50 pounds. Maybe it’s to be in better health for the sake of your children. Maybe it’s to fit into those pants from your college days. Whatever the reason, write it down or take a picture of it, and post it around your house, car, and office so you have a constant motivator.
6. Put on your workout gear.
Even if you aren’t in the mood to exercise, putting on your workout gear can actually help motivate you to go ahead and do it. Another little trick is to lay it out the day before so it’s in your view every time you walk by that chair, dresser, or bed, providing you with a little guilt trip.
7. Post it on social media.
We all get tired of hearing about our fit friend’s daily runs and trips to the gym, but it could be that those people are just trying to motivate themselves. Post about your workout on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, and then you’ll feel guilty if you back out.