Getting and staying motivated on your fitness journey can feel like trying to catch a slippery fish with your bare hands. It’s a challenge we all face at some point or another, and trust me, I’m no exception. So, if you’re reading this, you’re in good company. Welcome to a blog that won’t make you feel like you need a PhD in exercise science or a personal chef to succeed.
You see, a while back, I found myself on the proverbial fitness rollercoaster. I’d start a workout regimen, all fired up, only to find my motivation wane faster than a melting popsicle on a hot summer day. The gym bag would collect dust, and my sneakers were more fashion statements than fitness gear. It was frustrating, discouraging, and oh-so-relatable.
One day, I decided I’d had enough of this up-and-down ride. I wanted to break free from the cycle of motivation and demotivation. So, I embarked on a mission to figure out how to stay motivated on my fitness journey without unrealistic expectations or mind-boggling science.
Here’s the thing: I’m not some fitness guru or a naturally athletic person. I’m just an everyday person with a strong desire to stay fit and healthy. And after years of experimentation, failures, and small successes, I’ve uncovered some practical tips that work for regular folks like you and me.
In this blog, I’m going to share those tips with you so you can stay motivated and keep making progress on your fitness journey. No fancy jargon, no exaggerated promises, just real advice for real people. Trust me; if I can do it, so can you. So, let’s dive in and discover how to keep that fitness flame alive!
1. Set realistic goals
Setting achievable goals is crucial to staying motivated on your fitness journey. There’s a saying in fitness that you overestimate what you can achieve in a month, and underestimate what you can achieve in a year.
Start with small, realistic goals that will help you build momentum and establish healthy habits. Once you achieve those goals, you can set new ones that are slightly more challenging. For example, if you’re new to exercising, you might start with a goal of walking for 20 minutes each day. Once you achieve that goal, you can increase it to 30 minutes or add in some light strength training.
2. Find a workout buddy
Having a workout buddy can make exercising more enjoyable and less intimidating. It can also help you stay accountable and motivated. When you have someone else to exercise with, you’re less likely to skip a workout or make excuses. Plus, working out with a friend or family member can be a great way to spend quality time together.
3. Mix up your routine
Doing the same workout routine over and over again can quickly become boring and stale. It’s important to mix up your routine to keep things interesting and challenging. You can try new exercises, switch up your cardio routine, or take a fitness class. Trying new things can also help you discover new interests and meet new people.
4. Reward yourself
Setting up a reward system for yourself when you reach a certain milestone or goal can be a great motivator. It doesn’t have to be anything big or expensive, but it should be something that you look forward to. For example, you might treat yourself to a new workout outfit, a massage, a day out, or a healthy treat.
5. Keep track of your progress
Keeping a workout journal or using a fitness app to track your progress can be a great motivator. When you see how far you’ve come, it can help you stay focused and motivated. It can also help you identify areas where you might need to make adjustments.
6. Focus on the process, not just the outcome
Instead of focusing solely on your end goal, it’s important to focus on the process of getting there. Celebrate small wins along the way and take pride in the effort you’re putting in. For example, if your goal is to lose weight, celebrate each pound lost instead of just focusing on the big number on the scale.
7. Surround yourself with positive influences
Surrounding yourself with people who support and encourage your fitness goals can be a great motivator. This can be a friend, family member, or even an online community. When you have a support system, you’re more likely to stay motivated and accountable. Some fitness apps even let you compare and share results with other users.
8. Make fitness a habit
Scheduling your workouts into your calendar and making them a priority is key to staying motivated and seeing progress. Consistency is key when it comes to establishing healthy habits. When exercise becomes a part of your daily routine, it’s easier to stay motivated and on track.
9. Get enough rest and recovery
Overtraining and burnout can quickly zap your motivation. It’s important to prioritize rest and recovery days to avoid injury and keep your energy levels up. This can include getting enough sleep, taking rest days, and incorporating stretching and foam rolling into your routine.
10. Focus on the benefits
Reminding yourself of the benefits of staying active and healthy can be a great motivator. This could include improved mood, increased energy, and reduced risk of chronic diseases. When you focus on the positive impact that exercise has on your overall health and well-being, it’s easier to stay motivated and committed to your fitness journey.
Final Thoughts – How To Stay Motivated on Your Fitness Journey
Staying motivated on your fitness journey can be challenging, but it’s essential to achieving your goals. Remember that it’s not just about achieving your end goal but also about enjoying the journey and the positive impact that exercise has on your overall health and well-being. So, keep pushing yourself, celebrating your small wins, and don’t forget to have fun along the way.
