Summer’s nearly over – did it actually ever begin? – and sometimes, as it starts getting colder, darker, and less and less inviting out there, we can become a little bit less enthusiastic about getting out and doing things.
I get it! It can be hard to build the motivation to get out to the gym or put a few miles in on the bike on a wet and windy morning. I know also that we need to power on through – because it’s now more than ever that we need that physical and mental boost that comes from putting ourselves out there.
I’m no different to anyone else. If the alarm goes off and I can hear it pelting down outside, my first instinct is to pull the duvet up to my chin and settle in for another half hour. I’ve come to learn, though, that the lazy option is never the answer.
Here’s a few ways I maintain my motivation to get out to the gym on a regular basis:
- Remember how sluggish I can feel if I don’t get my fix of exercise.
- Know that exercise makes me feel mentally fresh and helps me oil the wheels of every other part of my life.
- Build new challenges into my exercise that I need to work hard at to achieve.
- Have pictures/memories of my phone that remind me just how much I enjoy training.
- Organise to meet other people to train with – you can’t let them down.
- Remember that exercise and training gives structure to the day.
- Recall how glad I always am that I made the effort.
Remind myself how important it is to be fit and healthy for my family.
Justify eating that giant burger later in the day! - Seriously, it’s so often our exercise schedule that suffers when we’re back in the work routine, feeling stressed and busy. We’ve all said it – ‘I haven’t got time!’.
The key is to always make time.
When you think about it, what can be a bigger priority than keeping yourself fit and healthy?
Ultimately, fitness will save you time because it gives you physical and mental strength and stamina to get you through daily life.
I’ll be out there as the mornings get darker and the nights draw in, and I hope to see you out there too. Look out for my tank heading to the gym!