“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” when it comes to the motivation you need to reach your fitness goals. However, if you want any level of success, you must make a diligent and concerted effort to stay focused and on track. Sometimes, life gets in the way, and the last thing you want to do is anything fitness-related. But taking one day off can lead to two and three, and then what? You’re all the way back to the beginning at square one.
So here are 10 tips to help you maximize motivation on “The Climb” to ultimate health and wellness. You’ve got this!
1. “Be Humble” and Set Realistic Goals
Did Rome really have to be built in one day? Reaching goals is not about conquering Everest, TODAY! Instead, break your fitness goals down into achievable bite-sized milestones. One way to maximize motivation is to celebrate the small victories along the way. Then and watch your motivation soar!
Celebrating your small victories just does something to your mental motivational compartment. Try it and you’ll see for yourself!
2. “The Mix Up” of Your Workout Routine
Variety is the spice of life, right? That same mantra should apply to your workouts. Doing the same old, same old routine is boring and can become a monotonous motivation killer. So, swap out the for a dance class or try a new strength training routine. Keeping it fresh keeps it fun!
Pro tip: Ask yourself, “What activities do I actually enjoy and have fun doing?” Think outside the regular degular “fitness” box. Dancing, jumping rope, hell, even chasing your dog around for a cute game of tag counts! Basically anything that gets you moving that also puts a smile on your face is a win-win.
3. “That’s What Friends Are For” – to Motivate You!
If you’re lacking motivation you need to hurry up and surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share your passion for fitness. Say no to your grumpy couch-surfing soda-drinking friends and yes to your positive healthy living friends who are motivated to move.
You can start by exploring local fitness classes, gyms or community events that align with your interests. Or strike up conversations with people who share your fitness goals and values. Don’t be shy about reaching out to friends or acquaintances who might have similar interests. Whether it’s a running club or a group dedicated to a specific workout style, having a tribe keeps you accountable and motivated. The journey is more enjoyable when you have a supportive community cheering you on every step of the way!
4. “Love Yourself”
It’s not just about the sweat sessions. Ensure you’re taking care of your body and mind. Get enough sleep, practice mindfulness and treat yourself to some well-deserved downtime. Adequate sleep is your body’s way of recharging, aiding in muscle repair and overall well-being. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, provide mental clarity and emotional resilience, helping you navigate the challenges of both your fitness journey and daily life.
And hey, don’t forget to indulge in some R&R! Whether it’s curling up with a good book, enjoying a leisurely bath, or simply basking in the tranquility of nature, taking moments for yourself is crucial. Your body will thank you, and your motivation will thrive in this nurturing environment.
5. “Play That Funky Music”
Music has the power to lift your spirits and energize your workouts. Creating a kick-ass playlist is like injecting an extra dose of enthusiasm into your fitness routine. It’s not just about the music; it’s about curating a sonic experience that resonates with your workout vibe. Consider the tempo of the songs – upbeat tracks are perfect for high-intensity sessions, while mellower tunes can complement a yoga or stretching routine.
Take the time to update your playlist regularly, introducing new tracks that spark joy and anticipation. Music has a magical ability to transport you, making every squat, run, or yoga pose feel like a dance party. So, strap on those headphones, press play, and let the rhythm elevate your motivation to new heights. Before you know it, your workouts will become not just a physical challenge but a symphony of energy and excitement. Get ready to move and groove!
6. “Plan of Attack”
Establish a workout routine that fits into your daily life. Making it a habit eliminates the decision-making process, making it easier to stay on track.
Alright, let’s talk real talk – when it comes to staying on the fitness grind, consistency is your ride-or-die. So, guess what? You need a game plan! Set up a workout routine that you can vibe with on the daily. Think about when you’re most likely to break a sweat without feeling like a zombie. For instance, are you a morning workout person or a night owl?
A plan of attack helps prevent the “I’ll do it later” excuses – it’s on the schedule, and you’re committed to it. Make your workouts a habit, and watch how it becomes as natural as scrolling through your favorite memes. Stick to the plan, keep it real, and let the consistency magic happen!
7. “My Beautiful Reward”
Now, let’s talk about treating yourself – because hitting milestones deserves a little celebration, right? Treat yourself to something special – and no, it doesn’t have to be a massive splurge. How about a massage to soothe those hard-working muscles? Or, hey, those workout shoes you’ve been eyeing forever?
And let’s not forget the magic words: cheat meal! Seriously, savor that pizza or indulge in a decadent dessert, guilt-free. Rewards are like little boosts of motivation that make the journey downright enjoyable. So, celebrate those wins, big or small, and sprinkle a little extra joy into your fitness adventure. You’ve earned it!
8. “The Diary of Me”
It’s super important to keep track of your fitness journey. Grab a journal or use fitness apps to monitor your progress. Seeing how far you’ve come can be a powerful motivator, especially on days when the finish line seems far away. Jot down your workouts, note how you’re feeling, and throw in a few emojis for good measure.
Or, you can even take pictures when you hit milestones in your journey. Trust me, seeing the progress in those before and after photos is going to take your motivation to another level! It’s the ultimate motivator, putting those doubts in your rear view mirror. So, whether it’s pen to paper or tapping on your screen, document that journey. Your future self will thank you!
9. “We Are the Champions”
If you believe it, you will achieve it!!! This is the time to get all in your own head and picture yourself achieving your fitness goals. Visualization can be a potent tool to keep your eyes on the prize, making the journey seem more reachable.
And when times get hard, remind yourself that you got this, take a breather, close your eyes, and let your mind take you to a place of greatness. Picture yourself smashing through your workouts, conquering new challenges, and – in all your glory – reaching the finish line! Just know that your fitness journey isn’t just for the physical rewards; it can be mentally empowering too.
10. “Be Kind to Yourself”
Show some compassion — for YOURSELF! Understand that progress takes time, and it’s perfectly normal to face setbacks along the way. Instead of being negative and dwelling on the fact that you only worked out once this week instead of your planned three times, take some time to step back and appreciate the effort you’re putting in. Listen to your body, get the rest you need and give yourself a high-five for any achievements you make, no matter how small. So pat yourself on the back for smashing through one workout, because it’s better than NO workouts! See what I did there? Now your turn!
Remember, fitness is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the process, be patient with yourself, and celebrate the fact that you’re taking positive steps toward a healthier, happier you.
Motivation Playlist
- “Be Humble” – Kendrick Lamar
- “The Mix Up” – Beastie Boys
- “That’s What Friends Are For” – Dionne Warwick
- “Love Yourself” – Justin Beiber
- “Play That Funky Music” – Wild Cherry
- “Plan of Attack” – Curren$y, Trademark and Young Roddy
- “My Beautiful Reward” – Bruce Springsteen
- “The Diary of Me” – Taylor Swift
- “We Are the Champions” – Queen
- “Be Kind to Yourself” – Andrew Peterson