Here’s How To Get It Back…
We’re determined to keep you on top of your workout if you’re struggling to attend your usual fitness class or gym during this tricky time. We all know it’s tough enough to get started, throw a pandemic into the mix and it’s near impossible. While the pandemic may have drained some of your desire to workout, it’s also the reason you shouldn’t ditch your routine.
That’s when having a list of motivational tips can help you be consistent. We’ve compiled a list of 7 practical ways to help you stay motivated and on track to meet your fitness goals.
It’s time to break those mental barriers and get our sweat on!
7 ways to keep motivated to workout at home:
1. Workout clothes
Call us picky, but what we wear to exercise really does make a big difference in how we feel during a workout. If something is too tight, itchy, or ill-fitting, it can totally throw us off. Find something that fits you and makes you feel good when you wear it. Bright colors, all black, or matching with your workout partner – whatever you prefer!
Lay your kit out ready for your workout. Don’t think about it, just get dressed – it’s the best way to get motivated to work out.
You’re also less likely to not workout if you’ve already got your exercise gear on!
Here are a handful of the gym brands we love:
- Alo yoga – The LA unisex brand who make sweet matching sports bra-and-leggings sets, and stylish jackets to throw on top of your outfit.
- Beyond Yoga – If you like to feel comfy, and we mean really comfy, during your workout, look no further than Beyond Yoga. Their leggings, especially any made with their Spacedye performance fabric, feel equal parts silky and cosy on your skin. Plus, its high-waisted leggings are some of the best we’ve tried. They don’t feel too tight against your stomach, perfect for flowing from pose to pose with ease.
- Lululemon – This Canadian athleisure brand has been a favorite for over 15 years, inspiring women to “find empowerment through fitness.” We’re obsessed with Lulu’s Align pants because they give tons of mobility, fitting like a glove, but they’re breathable. Their low-impact sports bras are also super comfy.
- Girlfriend collective – Great quality products which come in a wide range of sizes. They use recycled materials and support safe, ethical working conditions for its factory worker. Learn more about their mission.
2. Set goals
Set achievable goals – what do you want to achieve? Write it down and add reminders around the house – surround yourself with motivation! A simple way to do this is label sticky notes with positive messages and goals. Plaster them on your alarm clock, bathroom mirror, or laptop. They’ll serve as a constant reminder to take care of your health.
And don’t forget to celebrate your achievements. Even if your goal is to complete three Intermediate/Advanced DPTV classes, make sure to celebrate your first class, second, and third! You’ve improved, and you should be proud of yourself.
3. Hello Endorphins!
No one ever worked out and regretted it. Keep a journal and write down how you feel after training. That way you can go back and take a look at those awesome feelings when you’re just not feeling in the mood.
You’ll probably write things down like: I feel great, I am so strong, I am so happy I finished that workout, I have so much energy and hello endorphins!
According to WebMD Endorphins can “trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of morphine. For example, the feeling that follows a run or workout is often described as “euphoric.” That feeling, known as a “runner’s high,” can be accompanied by a positive and energizing outlook on life.”
4. Schedule your workout as an appointment
Add workouts to your calendar each week, think of these as appointments – as time for yourself. Decide what type of workout you’ll do, for how long, and where. Spend 10 minutes planning your activity for the rest of the week. Research shows that having a daily routine that incorporates physical activity helps to promote regular exercise.
You’ll see that planning helps you get motivated to work out! On the Dynamic Pilates TV app you can add workouts to your list and download them to view even when you’re offline.
5. Everything is better in groups
Organise outdoor or online workouts with friends, family or join an online class, such as DPTV! This will make you accountable for your workout – you’re less likely to miss a workout if you’ve committed to it. Follow us on social media for support – having a sense of community will give you purpose and keep you motivated.
6. Mix up your workout
Dare to leave your comfort zone and don’t do the same workout all of the time. Mix it up! You can go for a run or a bike ride or use the DPTV app where you can easily categorise and browse classes. This is a great way to make your workout routine more fun so you will stick to it long-term.
7. Stop eating unhealthy food
When you eat unhealthy, processed, and high-sugar foods, your body doesn’t get the energy it needs. Instead, these foods can make you feel tired, lazy and unmotivated. So, make sure you eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables as well as protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Do this and you’re guaranteed to reach your fitness goals.
Read about our healthy food choices below:
Meat is so 2019 and what to eat pre-pilates class by nutritionist Jo-emma Larvin.
A GENTLE REMINDER: Every day is different. Sometimes you may feel totally motivated, like you could run an ultramarathon. Other days you might just want to relax on the sofa. That’s totally normal. Just don’t forget that it’s about finding the right balance between exercise and recovery. Think about why you want to reach your fitness goals. Keep your eyes on the prize and train your motivation like a muscle – we believe in you!
If you liked this post you may also be interested in reading:
- Tiffany: How I’m dealing with the stress of Covid-19
- Can Pilates help you live a more stress-free life?
Sources
- McArthur D, et al. (2014). Factors influencing adherence to regular exercise in middle-aged women: A qualitative study to inform clinical practice.
- Images by Matt Flores
