Finding motivation to go to the gym can be challenging. After all, the battle between laying on the couch and watching TV, or leaving the house and breaking a sweat, isn’t exactly a fair fight. However, you can do many things to help level the playing field. If you struggle to reach your fitness goals, consider trying out these helpful ways to motivate yourself to go to the gym.
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Get a workout buddy
If you have a difficult time getting to the gym on your own, enlist the help of a workout buddy. By committing to go to the gym together, you can hold each other accountable. You’ll be much less likely to forgo your workout session if you know your friend counts on you to be there for them.
Outline obtainable goals
Developing a realistic set of fitness goals for yourself can make you more likely to go to the gym. When determining your goals, make sure you can actually obtain them. If you set your goals too high, you’ll likely end up disappointed, and this will discourage you from going to the gym in the future.
Track your progress
One of the best motivators for going to the gym is seeing evidence of your personal growth throughout your fitness journey. When it comes to your body, changes often happen gradually, and they can go unnoticed if you don’t pay attention. Tracking your progress allows you to see how much you have improved overtime, which will inspire you to keep hitting the gym.
Dress the part
Buying a nice workout wardrobe isn’t just fun, it could also help you stay committed to your fitness goals due to a psychological process called enclothed cognition. Enclothed cognition refers to how the clothing you wear can influence you to complete a related task and enhance your performance. Putting on athletic wear may make you more likely to go to the gym.
Find a workout plan you enjoy
If you dread the thought of running, don’t force yourself to go on the treadmill every time you go to the gym. Instead, try out different workouts or fitness classes until you find one you enjoy. By finding a workout you like, you’ll feel more inclined to go to the gym on a consistent basis.
