What happens when you just can’t seem to get you to work out? You worked out three days in a row last week but then, there was one day you couldn’t and, since then, every day you find a reason not to. Fear not. That happens to everyone and there are sources of motivation we can use to help us get in the work out state of mind. I have to use them constantly and there’s no shame in admitting that. I love working out and for the past eleven years, it’s been a daily activity – if possible. There are some days I just avoid getting in those work out pants, but others, the joy and pleasure I get from making that run, those squats or riding
that bike, it’s just worth it!
First of all, get clothes you really like and feel comfortable in. Clothes that fit you, that cover what you want to cover, that are loose or tight – whatever your preference – and that, when you look in the mirror you don’t feel totally inadequate. For example, I only buy high wasted pants because I feel like they hold everything that needs to be held. I have a combination of loose and fit t-shirts, for those days I’m feeling bloated and those days I’m feeling good with my body. Take time to know what really fits you.
Comfortable tennis shoes. As I wrote here, a good pair of tennis shoes are half way into having a great work out. You have to support your body and protect your knees and back. If you are a runner, a walker, a biker, a skater, you must pay attention to the type of tennis you wear. Nowadays it’s impossible not to have a sneaker for every sport so, no excuses there!
Motivational quotes can be bs or they can just help you get that extra strength you need today and tomorrow. They’re a way to remind yourself that either you can do it, or you need this, or it’s going to be good for you not just today but in the long run. When I was living with my parents I made some posters – in A4 sheets – with a series of motivational quotes all written by me. I hung them on my closet doors and one of them said “say no to cookies”. Each person should find which quote works best, stick to it and never forget.
Find a work out buddy. Yes, it does work. For me, when I’m at the gym, I’m better by myself. But I couldn’t always afford gyms and, now more than ever, I’m not paying for a gym membership. So when I wanted to go for a run or just a walk I would ask my girlfriend – who I used to live with – or my brother – when we lived together – and now I’m lucky enough to have a sports man in the house that helps me keep motivated and does all kinds of work outs with me.
Finally, if your problem is food and you don’t know what to eat pre or post work out, don’t worry, there are a lot of websites, books and doctors who can help you with that. For me, what works best is to have a pre work out meal with fruit and carbohydrates. I normally have a piece of fruit and some crackers or a piece of bread. That always gets me going without burping the whole time I’m working out. During my work out, I drink lots and lots of water to keep me hydrated and focused. After the work out I normally have a recovery formula and then get something with protein – wether it’s a yogurt, dinner or lunch, I make sure I get a lot of protein.