Whether you’ve been working out for a few years and consider yourself a #gymboss or are just getting started with fitness, everyone has hit their slump. It could last a day or up to a week, but do not let this get the best of you! Try these motivation tips to revamp your mind, your body and your attitude about fitness.
Change up your routine.
Ask yourself this: when was the last time you changed your workout? A month? 3 months?
Just like your mind, your body gets accustomed to your workouts. Because of this, the gain train might miss your stop after awhile. Though undoubtedly frustrating, this is completely normal. Maybe you’re working out because you’re a college athlete, trying to gain muscle mass, or just trying to stay in shape. No matter your goals, switching things up can only help you improve. Try to spice things up and give a new type of workout a try.
Bump some different tunes.
If you don’t listen to music when you work out, then this does not apply to you – or does it? Before you scroll down and skip this one, think about it: if the way you’re doing it now (silently) is getting dull, couldn’t playing some fun new tunes help?
If you’re lacking on the motivation and there’s no music in the background, consider picking up the headphones. From my personal experience, I get tired of listening to the same stuff over and over again. For that reason, every couple weeks or so I’ll switch up what I listen to. Whether its alternative, throwbacks, rap or some house music – switching up the tunes can give your workout a different rhythm and a different mindset.
If you’re not sure what to listen to, or don’t want to spend the time making a playlist, don’t worry: we’ve got you covered.
Find a workout buddy (or ditch your usual buddy & go alone).
This is pretty straightforward. If you work alone and the motivation is not there, try and find a workout buddy. I always find working out with someone will help push and motivate each other to new PRs!
On the other hand, maybe you’re tired of your buddy (maybe he or she doesn’t show up on time). Try going alone. You may need just some alone time with the gym to get in touch with what you really want to be doing and accomplish.
Try going at a different time of day.
I personally prefer the morning to workout out in, but some people may not know what works best for them. If your schedule is flexible enough, try going at different times of the day: it may give you a burst of new energy.
Supplementation
I am an avid believer on taking the right supplements for you to enhance your workouts. For myself, I take Cellucor Cinnamon Swirl Protein (10/10 rating in my opinion), Best Creatine by BPI Sports (if you are unaware of creatine, I highly recommend researching the benefits of this amazing supplement), and ON multivitamins. Do a little research and figure out which ones you want to be taking for your fitness goals (or consult an expert).
The right supplements go a long way in terms of endurance, performance and recovery.
Take advantage of the summer weather.
Get outdoors! With a little of creativity, the traditional playground can turn into your own outdoor gym. Try a simple routine while you get your tan on at the beach, even.
You can try this bodyweight workout you can do anywhere (Or this one. Or this one.). Just do each move for 30 seconds, then rest for 10-30 seconds before moving to the next exercise. Repeat the circuit as many times as you want.
- Pull-ups
- Push-ups
- Hanging leg raises
- Triceps dips
- Burpees
- Finish off with some sprints
Don’t forget to stretch!
Ditch fitness for a week.
The problem might just be that your body is lacking energy and needs a break. You may just be fatigued. Listen to your body. A rest week can in fact be beneficial every once in a while. Rest up and get some cheat meals in!
on
Watch Pumping Iron
Then watch it again. Feel motivated?
Remember why you started.
To start something is one thing, but the real reason we’re all here is to finish something – to stick with your goals all the way through.
Remember why you started your fitness journey; everyone has their own reasons. What are yours? Like the great MJ once said, “limits, like fears, are often just an illusion.” Get those limits you have in your head out— let finish this.
Pokémon Go
Ha, ha. But for real. Download it. Go on a run and catch some rare Pokémon and hatch those eggs! #TeamMystic4Life
Now that you’re all motivated, what are you waiting for? Go for it!
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