Get Fit and Stay Motivated

Sometimes it can be difficult to take that first step through your front door and make it to the gym for that all important workout. Many individuals stop themselves with excuses - “I don't have the time” - “I have other more important stuff I need to do” - “I just don't have the energy.”

You're not the only one who may find it difficult to motivate yourself to go to the gym, even the experienced gym-goers have bad days, but it's time to build confidence and find strategies that help you overcome the fears.

Goals

It's important to list all the goals you want to accomplish by starting a fitness routine, no matter how small or big they may be. Then, identify all your reasons why you're not going and then try to work out what is actually stopping you. Then ask yourself, what you want instead - how important is your health to you. Sometimes this can help you come up with solutions to any of your reasons.

Confidence

Lack of confidence can be a main reason to avoid the gym. This is often based on past experiences and your own perception on how you compare to all of the other gym members. The good news is that you can actually boost your confidence and make it stronger, just like you would for your muscles. Start thinking and reflecting on your recent successes in life - times when things really went well for you. Or, imagine and visualise what it would be like to have great success. The most successful people in the world have been fantastic dreamers. Start to dream big dreams.

Top Tips to get Moving

• Arrange to workout with a friend. You are more likely to show up, knowing that someone else is there waiting for you.
• Exchange gym bags with this friend, as you will both have to turn up with each others clothes
• Add variety to your exercise routine by doing different classes or different workouts
• Bargain with yourself by saying that you're only going to do a short 20-minute workout. It won't seem as challenging, but it can actually make you do more.
• Focus on the afterwards
  • What will it mean for you to achieve your goal?
  • How will you feel?
  • What will you look like?
  • What will happen if you don't achieve your goal?

It's always important to remember that everybody will have good and bad days when it comes to motivating yourself to get out of your front door and head to the gym, but how you handle the bad days and how you think will determine whether or not you will be successful or not. Remember, stay positive and get out there with a renewed confidence and enthusiasm.