I love to work out; but, sometimes I compare getting myself to the gym to forcing a screaming, kicking toddler into a carseat. I don’t always want to go, but there has never been a trip to the gym that didn’t make me feel better inside and out; well except for that one time the power went out 10 minutes in to my workout.
Exercise is important to me, and I’ve always viewed it as more of a lifestyle rather than a chore. I realize not everyone can agree with me on that view and as life changes and we set new goals, it can seem super intimidating. I have always considered myself an active person and it’s a very large part of my life. Some will shame me and criticize how often I exercise but what works for me doesn’t work for everyone, so I’ve learned to ignore the shaming.
The gym works for me. It used to be running and training for 1/2 marathons. Another time it was group fitness bootcamp classes or boxing classes. I’ve tried it all and as scary as it was to start, the gym is now a safe place for me. I had no idea what I was doing when I first went to the gym. Years ago, I’d go and use the elliptical for 45 minutes to an hour because, I had no idea what I was doing.
I still don’t really know what I am doing but I have learned enough over the years that now I can consistently workout and create my own routine each week. I am often asked how I have time to go to the gym. The answer is simple. I make time; not only to get myself there to work out, but to plan, research and learn new exercises.
Once you make something a habit or a part of your weekly routine, it becomes easier and easier to stay consistent. Here are some of my tips if you are trying to up your game and get back in to an exercise routine. Here are 5 tips to help get you started!
1. Find a buddy – Working out is always more fun with a friend. Not only can you keep each other accountable but you now have someone to laugh while while you sweat and look like you peed your pants.
2. Start slow – Just as with any new habit or lifestyle change, too much too fast often ends quickly. If you aren’t working out now, starting with 5 or 6 days a week might be a bit much all at once. Pick a day that is your “start day” and schedule your workouts for the week. Try with 3 days and see how you feel. After a couple of weeks, if you feel like you need one more day, add one! If 3 is too hard for you to commit to, try 2. The only person you should ever make a promise to is yourself. Trust yourself and only make promises you can keep.
3. Watch videos & learn – If the gym is where you want to get your exercise in but the machines intimidate you, go in prepared. Find a friend you can tag along with and ask if they can teach you the basics. Watch videos, read articles, look at diagrams and sketches of proper form or find a workout routine online. The internet is a wealth of resources {and some not so great so make sure you get your information from trusted sites}. Never be afraid to ask for help, everyone starts somewhere and no one just “knows” everything…
4. Make sure you have good music – Put together a good playlist that you know will motivate you or get your heart rate up. Not sure what songs to use? Pandora has some great playlists to get you going. Some of my favorites are: Vanilla Ice Radio, Three Days Grace Radio, and 90’s Hip Hop.
5. Don’t give up – Once you commit to yourself, stick with it. Set realistic goals and push through the hard days. Make it a priority and remember that you are doing this for YOU and no one else. Making a plan and sticking to it will make you stronger mentally and physically. I have so many days that I am totally that toddler grabbing the door frame because I don’t want to get in the car but once I’m in, I focus and remember what I’m doing and why. I remind myself that if I give up, I’m letting the most important person down.
How will you motivate yourself to workout today?
