Are you currently thinking about changing your lifestyle for the better? Have all of those Instagram pics of your friends looking lean and fit started to sow a seed in your mind about just how in shape you could get if you tried? Thinking these kinds of thoughts is the first big step. You definitely have to want to do it to be successful, but outside of your own motivation, there are a few things you can do to help. Here is how to go from being a couch potato to a gym bunny!
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Monday Start
Always make sure that you start working out on a Monday every week, because getting your exercise going on the first day is a good way to get yourself in to the routine of going back again and again. If you tell yourself that you are going to wait until Tuesday and Wednesday, the tiredness of work will start to creep in and your motivation and enthusiasm will dwindle with every passing hour!
Starting your workout routine on a Monday is not only a great way to kick off your week, but it also sets the tone for the rest of the week. According to studies, people who exercise on Mondays are more likely to stick to their routine throughout the week compared to those who start later in the week. This is because Monday is seen as a fresh start and a chance to set new goals. Additionally, starting on Monday ensures that you don't miss any workouts due to unexpected events later in the week. So make sure to mark Monday as your official workout day to stay on track and achieve your fitness goals.
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Tiredness Isn’t an Excuse
You need to push through any tiredness that you might be feeling, because the fact is that working out can provide you with the energy and endorphins that you need to rectify that situation! Push through your thoughts of laying on the couch and get out there to be active instead. Your body will thank you for it later!
Regular exercise has been proven to increase energy levels and improve overall mood. When you feel tired, it may be tempting to skip your workout and opt for a nap instead. However, studies have shown that physical activity can actually boost energy levels and combat fatigue. This is because exercise increases blood flow and oxygen to the muscles, providing them with the necessary nutrients to function efficiently. Additionally, endorphins released during exercise can improve mood and reduce feelings of tiredness. So next time you feel like skipping the gym, remember that a workout can actually give you the energy you need to power through your day.
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One Skip per Week
Make a strict rule with yourself that you are only allowed to skip working out one day a week. This day off will make you feel like you are still allowing your old potato couch self to come out every now and then, but the price that you have to pay for taking a day off is committing to exercising super hard on all the other days!
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Be Kind to Yourself
You can’t turn up at the gym and expect to be a fitness god all in one week. Cut yourself some slack and just celebrate all of the mini goals that you meet and milestones that you reach along the way. The more you celebrate small achievements along the way, the more motivated you will be to do even better in the future.
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Being kind to yourself is an essential aspect of starting a fitness journey. It's important to set realistic goals and not get discouraged if you don't see immediate results. Celebrating small achievements, such as being able to run for an extra minute or lifting a heavier weight, can help keep you motivated and on track. It's also important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard. Remember, progress takes time and it's important to be patient and kind to yourself throughout the process.
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No Shower Excuses
If you are one of those people who has a think about not wanting to shower in front of others at the gym, that is no excuse not to still be active. You can find a different form of exercise like yoga or strength training that won’t have you absolutely sopping wet after an hour.
In addition to yoga and strength training, there are plenty of other low-impact exercises that can be done at the gym without taking a shower afterwards. These include using the elliptical machine, cycling, or even walking on the treadmill at a moderate pace. Additionally, many gyms offer private shower stalls for those who are uncomfortable showering in a communal setting. It's important to find a form of exercise that you enjoy and feel comfortable doing, as this will help you stick to a regular workout routine. Remember, any form of physical activity is better than none at all.
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Happiness depends upon ourselves.
Find a Buddy
It is human nature to be more alert and enthusiastic when you are doing an activity with another person as opposed to on your own. Find a work out buddy to go on this journey with you and you will find that you are more motivated to push yourself and achieve things than if you didn’t have someone by your side.
