It’s hard to say which is more challenging: getting started with a workout routine or staying committed. When we’re tired, busy, or stressed, working out can feel like a daunting task. We know that a good sweat or even a stretch will make us feel physically and emotionally better, but that mental note doesn’t always motivate us to move. However, it doesn’t take a miracle to become fit, even when motivation is fleeting. In fact, reaching your fitness goals rarely stems from unwavering motivation. It comes from understanding that motivation will never be constant and instead, focusing on your mindset.
Getting fit requires a shift in your thinking – you must learn to be comfortable with discomfort. You won’t always feel like working out every day (we’re only human, after all). And while the desire to hit snooze on your workout alarm might indicate burnout and the need for a rest day, most of the time, it indicates a negative thought loop that’s hindering the mentality you’re fully capable of adopting to be fit and healthy.
If this concept seems complex, don’t fret. Here are specific workout hacks that will shift your mindset and help you reach your goals.
If you are into morning workouts, plan your outfit the night before and put it on before even brushing your teeth. You could even try sleeping in your workout gear so that you can just get up and go.
PUT ON YOUR WORKOUT CLOTHES TO GET IN THE RIGHT HEADSPACE
The advice to dress for the life or career you want applies to your workout as well. Investing in workout clothes that you feel proud or happy to wear can have a positive impact. If you are into morning workouts, plan your outfit the night before and put it on before even brushing your teeth. You could even try sleeping in your workout gear so that you can just get up and go. It may seem unpleasant initially, but let’s face it, it’s going to get sweaty regardless, isn’t it? If you prefer to sweat it out later in the day, take your prepped and packed workout bag to work and change into your outfit before leaving. If you’re working from home, why not wear your workout clothes all day if you can? That way, when you finish your last call or task, you’ll be ready to start exercising without having to change. Putting on your exercise clothes helps communicate to your brain that a workout will happen.
DRINK MATCHA TEA BEFORE YOUR WORKOUT
You have probably come across numerous headlines proclaiming the benefits of matcha, coffee shops offering vibrant green matcha teas and lattes, and supplement companies incorporating this powdered tea into their product lines. And it is not without justification – matcha tea is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote the well-being and health of both regular gym-goers and avid athletes. It has a moderate caffeine content, approximately half the amount found in a cup of coffee. Drinking matcha tea 30 to 60 minutes before your workout can give you a gentle energy boost and leave you feeling remarkably alert, yet calm.
EXERCISE WHILE WATCHING TELEVISION
It’s not surprising that many of us enjoy spending our free time watching our favourite TV shows. However, you can also exercise while watching TV, which has numerous benefits. Firstly, it can help increase your overall activity level. Even though you may only be moving around for a few minutes at a time, those minutes can add up over the course of an hour-long episode of a show. Secondly, working out while watching TV can make exercise feel less like a chore and more enjoyable. After all, who doesn’t love the idea of getting a workout in while catching up on their favourite show?
All movement – regardless of duration or intensity – can support your goals and help you stay consistent with your fitness routine.
USE YOUR PLAYLIST AS A TIMER
Have you ever thought about using music to determine the duration of your workout? Well, here’s a simple method: create a playlist that matches the length of time you want to exercise. When you begin your workout, press play and let the songs serve as your timer. You can even set different speeds for different songs to keep yourself from getting too comfortable. And when the last song ends, you’ll know it’s time to cool down. Let the beat of your playlist push you to your goals.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO MAKE YOUR WORKOUT SHORT
If you don’t have the time or energy for a long session, don’t give up on your workout altogether – do what you can. Maybe it’s 10 minutes or maybe it’s 20. Regardless, don’t be afraid to make your workout short. A quick HIIT workout can be immensely effective. With that said, don’t underestimate the benefits of a simple walk either. All movement – regardless of duration or intensity – can support your goals and help you stay consistent with your fitness routine.