Getting yourself to work out can be tricky. So I’m going to share 5 tips on how to stay motivated and on track with your workout routine.
Starting Small
Especially if you haven't been a regular at the gym lately, starting small is a great way to get back on track. This summer, I started with 15 push-ups, 30 sit-ups, and 30 squats. I made a goal to add a little more every day, and so far I’m a 30–170–175 (and getting better every day!). Your progress might be a bit slower, but when you start small it's easy to build your way up slowly and start seeing progress.
Engagement
Keeping yourself engaged in your own workout routine is a no-brainer, but the how is a little bit tricky. One way, for example, is making sure you like the workout routine you are doing. If you like biking, bike. If you like running, run. If you like weight-lifting, do that. Pushing yourself to do something harder and less fun is easier when you are already engaged in your normal workout routine.
Keeping Track
Make sure your work out every day, even if for just a little bit. On days when I’m sick, I do 10–10–10 or more if I can + stretches. Keeping that routine is important because there is always something you can do every day. I also keep track of my daily workout routine, writing it down and timing myself. This way I can track my progress and improvement (and that's a huge esteem builder!).
Rewards
Don't forget; this experience should be enjoyable. Rewards you can give yourself might be buying that new book you really want, or it might be a pair of shoes. If your more of the experience type, it might be going to a restaurant or eating that raspberry cheesecake your craving. Set marks for you to make (eg. 80 pushups, 6 min mile, etc.) and then give yourself a reward when that landmark is reached. You should push your limits here, you can do more than you think — our bodies are made to be strong.
Buddies
Having a buddy to remind you to work out and vice versa is very nice to have. Even if it's just someone you can text, or someone you run with, having someone else on your back to keep you going will keep your morale high.
Workout Routine Ideas:
Here are some beginner workout routines that you can alter depending on your skillset, to get going today! All of these can be done at home, or around your neighborhood.
- Morning — 15 min routine: [this is my personal workout routine] Start with — 10–20 pushups, 30–50 sit-ups, and 30–50 squats. Then stretch out your arms and legs (toe touch, butterfly, etc.)
- Arms and Legs: Start with — 30 leg lifters (each side), 50 arm circles, arm holds (see links below), and if you can, biking for 30 min — 1 hr.
- Cardio: Start with — 20 burpees, 20 jumping jacks, 20 high knees, 20 jump squats, and if possible, 1-mile jog/run
- Morning — Stretching & Relaxation: Start with — 1 min meditation, morning stretches (see links below), repeat. (you could also try a sun salutation, etc.)
LINKS:
Arm Holds: https://darebee.com/workouts/stronger-arms-workout.html (DareBee.com)
Morning Stretches: https://darebee.com/workouts/morning-stretch-workout.html (DareBee.com)
Sun Salutation: https://www.mondaycampaigns.org/destress-monday/sun-salutation (MondayCampaigns.org)
