Gym Motivation: Finding the Best Workout For You

“Athletlic” is not a word I would use to describe myself. I didn’t grow up playing sports, was not always super active, and relied mostly on my genetics and fast metabolism throughout my teenage years to get by and stay thin. It wasn’t until a few years ago, when I began investing in myself and trying out different boutique fitness classes, that I learned what the best workout is (for me) and found tactics that motivate me to stay motivated and consistent. It’s been a long journey, one filled with periods of giving up and not always having the healthiest relationship with food and my body, but I feel like I have finally made significant strides. Fitness has become a huge part of my life night – over time, I came to actually enjoy working out – and now I seriously cannot imagine my week without exercise.

HIIT Classes

It took me a long time to realize that the “best workout” is the one you actually like. Gyms were never for me – I was intimidated by all of the machines and free weights, and thought the only way to get in shape was to spend hours slaving over the cardio machines. Not only was it tremendously boring and tedious, it did nothing for my body and I dreaded working out.

Then, I was introduced to barre classes – and I was instantly hooked. I loved the classes and everything about them – the instructors, the music, the community, feeling sore the next day. That was the first time in my life I ever really consistently worked out. It felt great, but I still was not getting the results I wanted. Over the years I tried every class imaginable – spin, boxing, pilates, yoga, etc. I finally found my groove and have been going to HIIT classes 3-4x a week for the past year and it has been the best thing for me.

Whatever your goal are, whether you’re looking to lose weight or get in shape, they will take time. Your body won’t change overnight, and any “plan” or “cleanse” that promises to do so is a LIE. The only thing that will change your body is if you change your lifestyle and remain committed to those changes. With that said, there are a few tricks I picked up over the years that have made working out and staying motivated so much easier.

Gym Motivation to Reach Your Fitness Goals:

+ Have a clear goal in mind.

Maybe you have an event coming up you want to look your best for, or maybe you want to be able to do 10 push-ups. Whatever it is, setting a goal and having something to strive for helps to keep your eyes on the prize.

+ Find an exercise you actually love.

If yoga or pilates isn’t your thing, try something else! There’s no “best” or “perfect” workout. It’s whatever you like the most and will actually WANT to do multiple times a week. What do you actually look forward to? Maybe instead of a gym or class, you prefer rock climbing, hiking, or running outside. There are SO many options for whatever your fitness goals are. Try something new!

+ Make friends!

This has been such a game changer for me. Meeting like minded individuals in my bootcamp class has been the best thing for keeping me accountable and motivated. On my own, I’m more likely to cancel a class last minute or half ass it if I’m not feeling it. But making friends has not only made the class more fun (they push me to run faster, use heavier weights, and SHOW UP), I also WANT to go to class because even if the workout is rough, I get to see them! It’s really a win-win.

+ Schedule your workouts.

I plan mine out a week in advance so I know I’ve set time aside for myself and can plan around it. This makes my workout time non-negotiable, just like any other meeting I have planned during the week.

+ Look cute while you sweat.

When in doubt, dress the part. If you’re not so sure about this whole exercise thing, start with your workout clothes. I swear having a couple cute outfits is actually motivating because it makes you want to wear them (and not just to run errands in) and you feel more comfortable and confident in your own skin. Try it out! I’ll do a post on my favorite workout clothes and brands soon.

What’s your workout routine and how do you stay motivated?? xx

bra: vimmia (on sale!) | leggings: koral | shoes: apl | bag: lole

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