Happy first day of Fall Y'all! :) With the weather slowly changing and days getting shorter, it can be challenging to keep up with your workout regimen. Consider getting an earlier start by identifying any season-related obstacles and adjust accordingly.
Additionally, read on for more ways to stay motivated to move this fall and winter!
REMEMBER YOUR WHY
You're working out because you have a goal – it could be to be fitter, faster, leaner, stronger, etc. Whatever it is, you have a reason and it was important enough to spur you into action in the first place. As you begin to progress on your fitness journey, it can be easy to get lost in it all and lose motivation especially when you're uncomfortable, freezing, and just want a hot shower. It’s important to take the time to remind yourself why you started in the first place.
ACCOUNTABILITY
Sometimes internal motivation just isn’t enough and that’s ok. This is where accountability comes into play. Becoming accountable to someone else (a workout buddy, personal trainer) or a group of people (a sports team, class) increases your chances of following through. So, if you’re struggling to get inspired to hit the gym this winter, try using accountability to keep you on the right path to reach your goals.
CHALLENGE YOURSELF
Challenges are tough, hard and sometimes painful (in a good way), but they also fill you with a sense of pride, accomplishment and serve to show you how you’re capable of more than you thought possible. So, if in the depths of winter, you’re struggling to get any exercise done and motivation is wearing off, why not set yourself a challenge? Aim to push yourself and see where your limits really lie. As for what your challenge could be – you could aim to compete in a race, learn a difficult skill, set a new personal best or any number of other things.
TRACK PROGRESS
Tracking your progress shows you exactly how far you’ve come and will inspire you to keep going. Sometimes it’s hard to notice changes are happening because you see yourself every day. By tracking your progress, you get real proof of what’s going on and can rest assured that you’re progressing towards your goal even if sometimes you don’t feel like it. Tip: One good way to track progress is to keep a log of how much you lift and try to add weight or reps each workout for a six- to eight-week cycle to keep track of your strength training progress.
Don’t let the shorter, darker days of autumn and winter keep you cuddled up on the couch. Discovering new ways to motivate yourself to move can keep you on track during the changing seasons ahead.