Sticking with Your Workout Plan
July 29, 2008
The thing all of us who are bodybuilders or fitness enthusiasts have all struggled with from time to time is motivation. It can be hard to drag yourself out of bed to get to the gym before work; it can also be hard to summon up the energy to do anything other then going home and lying in an exhausted heap in front of the TV after a long day at work. However, all of us also know that working out actually gives you an energy boost and makes you feel better (and sleep better so you’re more refreshed for the next day at work).
Staying with your exercise program not only benefits your physically, but mentally as well. That’s why you started in the first place! How can I stay motivated, you ask, when you just can’t face another session at the gym? Here’s some helpful tips to get you up and running.
About Setting Goals:
Everyone needs a goal in life. Your exercise program is not different. You could tell yourself “Next week I am going to add X amount of weight to my bicep routine”. Now you have something to work towards and you will be more likely to keep at it until you achieve that goal.
About Burning Out:
You really don’t need to be working out everyday. In fact, it is more beneficial to work out 3 times a week. Every other day is good as it gives your muscles the recovery time that they need to reduce the risk of injury to the muscles. Being at the gym everyday can lead to burn out fast. So give your self and your muscles a break!
Progress, Progress, Progress!
To keep motivated you need to measure your progress from time to time. You are working hard and seeing the progress you are making it a sure fire motivator. If you are working on increasing muscle mass, go ahead and measure those biceps. If you are working to lose weight-weigh yourself weekly. Same goes for losing fat; check that BMI. The excitement you get from seeing the results of your hard work will encourage you to keep at it!
If you feel like you can’t face going to the gym again, or feel you are in getting into a exercise rut, go ahead and try out these tips. Just remember your goals and stick with it–I did!
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