8 Secrets to Get Motivated for a Workout

Maintaining motivation in a training program can be a challenge no matter your experience level. There will be days when you just don’t feel motivated to train and periods where it’s tempting to slack off. Here are seven secrets to get motivated to work out.

1. Be accountable

It’s easy to blow off a workout when nobody is expecting you to show. It’s a lot tougher to do so when you have a workout partner or training group expecting you. The social aspect of working out helps for a lot of people in general. But it also can provide the accountability you need to stay motivated.

2. Downsize your workout

If you face an ambitious workout on a day when the drive and energy level isn’t there, rather than punt completely, downgrad your plan to something shorter or less strenuous. Maybe you were planning a long run; Why not do Movement Prep instead of nothing? At least you’ll have that benefit and a sense of accomplishment. Once you’ve started, you might find the energy level kicking in and be able to tackle your original workout.

3. Plan ahead

It’s easy to rationalize missing a workout because you forgot your clothes or don’t have time to rush home to get workout gear. Stay motivated and on course by laying clothes out the night before and keeping extra gear in your car or under the desk. What can you do to remove as many barriers as possible to staying motivated?. Whether it’s bringing a gym bag with clothes or having proper nutrition planned, do all of the prep work when you are sufficiently motivated.

4. Attach a deadline

Training for a specific race or competition brings about a sense of urgency, keeping you motivated and less likely to skip a workout. By signing up for an event well in advance, you’ve also made a financial commitment, no small consideration given the ever-escalating costs of running, triathlon, and other events. Once you’ve signed up, let everyone know. This keeps you motivated since you’ve publicly pledged to do it.

5. Mix it up

The last thing you want to do is make your training routine. Be sure to vary your training to constantly stimulate your body. Find alternative exercises to strengthen the same muscle groups.

6. Track your progress

It’s easy to overlook incremental progress. That’s one of many reasons it’s important to track your progress over weeks, months—even years. Like investing, seeing that progress helps keep you motivated and on track.

7. Find your rhythm

Maybe you’re not lacking motivation, just timing. Some people will never be “morning people” while others know that if they don’t do their workout in the morning, it will never happen. Some people can’t imagine training after a long day at work while others need that time to de-stress before heading home. Once you discover when you’re most motivated to train, that’s going to knock down another barrier for you and help you stay motivated.

8. Set up a personal Training session with Merv : )

The first step in the acquisition of wisdom is silence, the second listening, the third memory, the fourth practice, the fifth teaching others.Solomon Ibn Gabriol