Top tips to keep you motivated through your winter training
We know it’s difficult to drag yourself out of your warm and cosy bed in the morning, but we’re here to give you some easy and practical tips to stay motivated and keep moving as we come into the cold winter months. Getting out of bed is always the hardest part, but no one ever says “I really regret doing my workout this morning”.
Set yourself a health goal
This can be ambitious or very simple, but announcing it to yourself and others can help you stay on track. Setting a deadline for the goal adds an extra layer of accountability. This might mean:
- 30 minutes of exercise a day for a month
- Increase the reps in your workout every week
- Fit into your favourite pair of jeans by Spring
- Drink 2 litres of water everyday
- Achieve 10,000 steps per day
- Do 10 push ups in a row
Once you reach your goal, increase it or set a new one. If you move your goal then you’ll keep moving with it.
Reward yourself
Make yourself a workout reward chart; why should this only be for kids? Set yourself a target for each day, week or month and reward yourself if you achieve your target. E.g. if I work out on Monday I’ll treat myself to a sneaky glass of wine after dinner. If I work out every day this week then I’ll buy myself that new pair of tights I’ve been eyeing off.
Consistency is key
Scheduling in exercise as part of your routine is key to your success – make it a lifestyle. This doesn’t mean it has to be at the same time everyday but it does need to be consistent. One week on, one week off just doesn’t work if you want to see results. Prepare yourself to limit your ability to make excuses. E.g if you’re planning on working out in the morning, lay out your clothes the night before. If you’re exercising on your lunch break, make sure you are prepared with healthy food so you don’t have to forgo your lunch for your workout.
If you didn’t post it, did it even happen?
Post your workout intentions and progress across your social channels to keep yourself motivated and accountable. Support from family and friends can give you that pep in your step to stop pressing that snooze button. Not to mention you will get to see your progress over time.
Get yourself a workout buddy
We all know exercise is good for both your mental and physical health, but so is spending time with friends and family. Combine the two together and you’ll have a recipe for success! Your workout partner can be virtual or in person and can have amazing benefits. You’ll be accountable to someone else, you’ll enjoy your workout more and it will go by faster. Someone else checking your form can also mean you’re less likely to get injured and you’ll push yourself harder.
Think about exercise differently
Exercise doesn’t have to be running on the treadmill or doing an online workout. You can dance around your lounge room, run around with the kids, walk the dog (the most grateful exercise companion), run up and down your stairs or squat while doing the dishes. The possibilities are endless! This way you are increasing your daily activity without even realising it.