5 Insights to Stay Motivated and Train Consistently to Change your life for the Better
Are you struggling to stay motivated and consistent with your workout routine? Do you often find yourself starting strong, only to lose momentum after a few weeks or months? You’re not alone. Most people struggle to maintain their fitness goals over the long term. However, with the right mindset and approach, it is possible to stay motivated and consistently train for years to come. In this post, we’ll explore five lessons I’ve learned from my clients to help you stay motivated and train consistently, no matter your age or fitness level.
Find Your Sweet Spot
Motivation is different for everyone, and what works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it’s essential to find what motivates you personally. A good starting point is to experiment with different types of workouts and training styles until you find something that you enjoy and look forward to doing.
For example, some people prefer high-intensity interval training (HIIT), while others prefer strength training or yoga. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to fitness, so don’t be afraid to try different things until you find what works for you.
Set Realistic Goals
Once you’ve found your sweet spot, it’s essential to set realistic goals. The key here is to find a balance between something that’s challenging but not overwhelming. If your goals are too easy, you’ll get bored quickly and lose motivation. If they’re too hard, you’ll become overwhelmed and may give up altogether.
Start by setting short-term goals that are achievable within a few weeks or months. For example, you might aim to run a 5k within the next six weeks or increase your deadlift weight by 10 pounds within the next three months. Once you’ve achieved these goals, set new ones that are slightly more challenging.
Play the Long Game
One of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to fitness is expecting instant results. The truth is that getting in shape takes time and effort, and it’s essential to play the long game. This means extending the timeline in your head and realizing that the body you want for life won’t emerge in 12 weeks or even six months. It’s a commitment, but we’re talking about the rest of your life here.
Instead of focusing solely on short-term results, think about the long-term benefits of regular exercise, such as improved health, increased energy, and a better quality of life. It’s also essential to have patience and not get discouraged if you don’t see results right away. Consistency is key, and over time, you’ll begin to see the benefits of your hard work.
Believe in Yourself
Believing in yourself is crucial when it comes to staying motivated and consistent with your workouts. This comes from setting good goals in step #2 and repeatedly showing yourself that you’re capable of accomplishing things you set your mind to. So, if you don’t have evidence to start, at least believe that you’re in the process of proving to yourself that you can do it.
It’s also important to acknowledge and celebrate your progress along the way. This will help you stay motivated and give you the confidence to continue pushing yourself.
Get Support
Last but not least, getting support from others can be a game-changer when it comes to staying motivated and consistent with your workouts. This could be a friend or family member who shares your fitness goals or a personal trainer or coach who can help keep you accountable and provide guidance and support.
It’s also helpful to create an environment that supports your fitness goals. For example, if you’re trying to eat healthier, you might remove junk food from your house and stock up on healthy options instead. Or, if you struggle to find time to exercise, consider joining a gym or fitness class that offers childcare services, or finding a workout buddy who can help you stay on track.
In conclusion, staying motivated and consistent with your workouts can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. By finding your sweet spot, setting realistic goals, playing the long game, believing in yourself, and getting support from others, you can stay on track and achieve your fitness goals. Remember, consistency is key, so don’t get discouraged if you slip up now and then. Just get back on track, and keep moving forward towards a healthier, happier you.