Workout with a smile | Health & Fitness

Do you have days where you'd rather be eaten alive by an army of angry ants than do a workout?  

I used to HATE working out. I've come a long way from then, however even now where I sort of enjoy it and LOVE that post-workout high, I still have days where I cannot motivate myself to exercise at all

I'm ok with this happening the odd time but I have a problem where one rest day can quickly turn into one month.

So of you are like me and struggle with self motivation or you are a newbie to working out and aren't exactly loving it, here are some tips to help you(and me!)

 

FIND YOU MODALITY 

I've tried as many as I can think of, I suggest you do too.

 

Home workouts-These were great for me when I started working out, I was too self conscious to workout in front of anyone and I had more important things like wine to pay for than a gym membership.

However after a while with DVD's, the fridge and sofa were too close for comfort and let's be honest Shaun T and Jillian Michaels don't really know if you've stopped to check your Facebook. 

Workout buddy- this can be great but make sure the other person is really focused, which in turn will make you feel obliged to workout.

If not you'll end up chatting about what the Kardashians have been up to and not doing much work at all or your buddy will cancel, are you really still gonna go?

 

Personal Training- I have to admit I got the best fitness results from this and stuck it out for 12 weeks but it was expensive and I chose the toughest PT in the area, I'm still convinced she was trying kill me with burpees.
It did make me realise that I need someone to push me as my mind gives up a million times before my body does.

 

Fitness classes- As I need someone there to push me but I'm still a bit scared about one on one personal training, I find fitness classes the perfect solution, you can take your workout buddy too.

The instructor is there to make sure you're working but not too in your face and most of the pressure comes from trying to keep up with the rest of the class. 

 

MAKE MANAGABLE GOALS

The first time I started Insanity I lasted 6 days, yes, the workouts were 'insane' but what put me off was the thought of another 54 days to go. UGH!

Try challenging yourself on a weekly basis.
Aim to workout 3 times a week, if you manage 4 you'll feel proud of yourselfif you manage 2 you'll want to do better the following week! WIN/WIN!
 

RECORD YOUR WORKOUTS

Whether you write it in a notebook or download a specific app I suggest keeping a note of what you do, this will definately boost your motivation, as well as tracking your progress. You'll know what I mean when you try it!
I currently use Map my Run and My Fitness Pal.

 

WORKOUT CLOTHES  

I am a hot mess when I workout but new workout clothes always make me feel a little better. Recently the brighter they are the better!
I know we all love shopping, right?
 

*NOTE: if you are one of those girls who does not sweat a drop, can wear flawless make-up and perfectly curled hair to a HIIT class, I'm sorry I can't be friends with you! I'm too jealous!

 

WORKOUT PLAYLIST 

If you solely do fitness classes you won't need this but in addition to the classes I do one workout in the gym and I go running twice a week - I honestly cant even begin if I don't have my tunes.

Spotify has some great playlists to workout to!

 

Try these tips and if you still hate working out, don't do it.  WHAT?!

You won't work to your fullest if you are forcing yourself and hating every second.
 

Instead maybe just go for a walk or climb the stairs for no reason or do some high intensity vacuuming...as long as you are moving right?!

 

Have a great weekend!

Workout and...

Keep smiling :)