Motivation- How to get back on track when motivation lacks.
One of the hardest obstacles to overcome when it comes to fitness is motivation. Motivation is about getting up, gearing up and making sure you step foot in the gym. It’s also about making sure you don’t lose your drive and you keep going harder, longer and stronger each time you make it to the gym or show up for a class. But it’s a double edge sword because motivation is just the ticket you need to set and reach your goals. Motivation will stare you in the face and tell you to “go and get it!” But what happens when you fall off track, give in a little to temptation and then lose your push to work harder, and kick it in the gym?
Honestly? Nothing will really happen except you think of more excuses to not get back on track. So, listen up and take this advice for what you will because you need to work hard to gain results. It’s not just about looking good, it’s about feeling your best and being your best self. You owe it to that amazing body of yours! Let’s check out some ways to get back on track when your motivation lacks.
Set a Goal and Grab a Workout Buddy
When you have a fitness friend or partner encouraging you and setting goals right along with you, you are more apt to be successful in the gym. Setting goals is proven to help you-
- Progress quickly
- Workout more efficiently
- Keep you focused
Not to mention, when you set a goal you automatically send your motivation through the roof. Think about how many times you’ve set a goal in your day to day life. I’m sure you’ve set a goal to obtain a certain career. Did you give up just because you may have forgotten to study hard for an exam? Probably not. You kept on going and look at you now, I guarantee you’re successful, accomplished and admired.
It’s the same for fitness. You have to set a particular goal to stay motivated. Without goal setting, tasks seem empty and useless.
But don’t worry if you’ve lost a little bit of your drive, that’s where the second factor comes into play- grabbing a workout buddy. Workout buddies are just what you need to keep showing up each day. They’re also exactly what coaches, like the ones at CrossFit Threefold, pride themselves in doing. Committing to helping you be your best self and giving you the motivational tools to get there. Our coaches show up because of you. Our goal is to work with you, for you and alongside you for guidance, strength and encouragement. You’ll never feel lost, unsure or unprepared for a workout or class. Your CrossFit coach will become your mentor, friend and biggest supporter.
Plus a major advantage to joining a CrossFit gym is becoming part of a community of like-minded fitness people, always ready and willing to workout with you and encourage you to reach your goals. Community is such an important aspect of gyms like Threefold, and in all honesty, it’s what sets us apart from others. We care about your success, your health and you becoming healthier and stronger. What more could you ask for?
But listen if you’re still having a bit of trouble lacing up, don’t worry. Our next tip will get you right back on track.
Schedule a Class- Yes, it’s that easy
Ok, how many times have you said to yourself I’ve got to get a haircut, try yoga, learn a new hobby or plan a vacation then fall short of doing so? Yes, probably more than once right. Well that’s because life gets in the way, and so do all the jobs you have to complete. Time has always been an obstacle even when you’re on vacation. I know you have every intention of getting up early, working out before your kids rise or squeezing in a run before you head out to dinner. Then, before you know it time’s gone by and you never follow through. It happens. And there's no reason to beat yourself up about it, just adopt a different mindset and start fresh.
If you think of each day as a new beginning or start, getting back on track won’t seem as daunting.
Another sure fire way to make things easy is simply by writing down a goal, or desire you have for yourself then get it done. No you don’t have to be a slave to the “to do” list, but when you visually see your goals written down it’s a great reminder and motivator to keep going! You will be so proud of yourself when you do so. Plus your tasks become that much easier to complete. Goals, visualizing (hey it’s what pro athletes do) and then making them happen.
Now back to the gym. Getting back into the gym is the same thing. Take a look at your schedule on a weekly basis and make time for you. If you’ve given yourself a break and went on vacation, fantastic! You need that. Everyone needs time to unwind and relax. But once that vacation is over, get back on track and on schedule. Staying consistent is key to your fitness success so once again, evaluate your week, your to-do list then schedule a class. Whether it’s a drop-in or personal training session, CrossFit’s coaches are here for you! We’re ready to welcome you and jump start or push your workouts further. That way, you can reap the benefits.
So, grab a pen (or iphone) and your calendar and get it done! It really is that simple. You make a decision, stick with it and boom- you’re back on track!
Sign up for an event/race!
Oftentimes the best way to get motivated to workout is by registering for a local event, race or program. Why? Once again goals. Human beings are wired to set and accomplish goals. We do it all day everyday. We set goals for our kids, our jobs, our endless list of tasks. And you know what? Once we accomplish them, enter check off my list, we feel proud and strong! It’s the same thing for health and fitness. Anytime goals for our health are set and met, we feel like we can conquer the world.
But again, if motivation is a stumbling block, even setting goals can be a challenge. That’s why finding local events, races or fitness programs like the ones CrossFit Threefold offers are so important. Maybe nutrition has been a stumbling block and you’re ready to amp it up. Awesome, we’ve got a challenge coming your way soon. Let’s face it, if you have to cough up a registration fee for an upcoming event, class or race, you’re definitely going to work hard and give it your all.
It’s not just about the fee though, it’s about accomplishment. Focus on defining your “why.” Why are you working out? Is it to lose weight, gain muscle or is it because you know many look up to you (your family, your kids) and admire you? Regardless of your “why,” start by identifying it, and then find a path to get you there.
Above all, don't get discouraged. We’ve talked about setting goals, grabbing a buddy, finding a class that works for you and signing up for an event. All these things will help motivate you when you’ve lost some steam. But they also all begin with you and your mindset. Look yourself in the mirror, be confident and strong in who you are and all you’re able to do. Never let yourself think it’s too late because it isn’t.
See, getting back on track isn’t that bad after all. Go get it and believe in being your best self now and always. It’s what matters.