Jamie's Top 10 Ways to Stay Motivated
- Make Working Out a Key Part of Your Life Schedule it in, and put it on your calendar. Make it a real commitment. It is a lifestyle change, not a temporary fix.
- Choose a Convenient Gym Choose a gym or a place to work out that is convenient and close.
- Set Attainable Goals Instead of saying, "I aim to lose 40 lbs" or "gain 10 lbs of muscle," set weekly and monthly goals to increase your reps or weight and/or increase your cardio.
- Start Off Slow Don't go in and work out so hard that you make yourself too sore to move. Focus on form and getting into the groove.
- Vary Your Routine Doing the same thing over and over will likely result in a plateau. Try to change your sets, reps, weights and/or rest period between sets at least once a month.
- Keep a Journal Keep a journal and hold yourself accountable to making improvements. How will you know when you get there if you can't remember where you've been?
- Use the Buddy System Train with a friend to keep up the energy. There is nothing like some friendly competition to spur a good workout.
- Hire a Trainer or Coach There will be days when the last thing you’ll want to do is spend time at the gym. A professional knows how to motivate you on those days, and you will be more likely to go when you're paying someone.
- Be Patient Make a promise to yourself to stick with it for at least 3 to 4 months. Consistency is key! Mark your calendar at the 3 or 4 month mark and if you stick to it, reward yourself with a new outfit or a vacation.
- Get Enough Sleep Lack of sleep will derail your training program faster than anything. You will likely overeat to compensate for energy and/or skip the gym all together.
