Kelly Sikkema
5 tips to get motivated to work out
More than ever, it’s important for all of us to ensure we’re keeping as well as we can. Apart from abiding by recommended measures to protect ourselves and others, part of staying healthy, is to ensure we get enough physical activity even during this time.
To help you get motivated, we’ve put together 5 tips to help you through this period.
Make the most of your indoor environment
Truth be told, there is no season that isn’t the right season to focus on your health and fitness. Just like how winter is a season that often lends itself to excuses – most of which have something to do with it being wet or cold out - the current physical/ social distancing and staying home restrictions may conjure up many other reasons; I need to be outside to exercise, or I need to go to a gym. To avoid giving in to this mentality, take advantage of the environment you’re in! Want to work on your cardio? Try skipping (and singing at the same time) or jumping jacks instead.
Forget the gear
Gone are the days where you can rock up to the gym wearing your activewear - temporarily at least.
Put on your comfiest sweatpants, and maybe bust out that sweat band from the 80s you’ve been saving for the next dress-up party. If you’re going to work out, why not make it fun? Enjoy this moment where you can dress up any way you please to work out.
Make it social
Find a buddy and have a workout party! You’ll not only enjoy the experience more but you’ll also keep each other on the fitness track – after all you don’t want to let down your friends. Find a fitness routine from your favourite trainer online, and set up a live video call with your buddy to workout together.
Work towards something
Whether it’s running a marathon or working towards a chin-up, set a goal and work towards it. A good goal can do wonders for motivation! You want to make sure it’s realistic but still a challenge. If it’s too easy you’ll achieve it too soon, if it’s too hard it’ll feel impossible and make you feel like giving up.
Try something new
Doing something new is exciting and will keep you engaged, ensuring you don’t backtrack due to boredom. Yoga, pilates, HIIT, and Tabata are some of the more popular fitness workouts available today.