We’ve all had those days; we plan on hitting the gym but we end up not following through. No matter if you’re new to spin class or a seasoned athlete, this happens to us all. Although physical injuries can impair us from getting our weight lifting in, it’s most often got to do with the mental side of things. There are always going to be a million other things we want to do instead of hit the gym- dinner with friends, Netflix with the hubby, the list goes on and on…and on. The key is bringing yourself back to reality and staying motivated to reach your end goal (whatever that may be). I was faced with the very same predicament just last night: I signed up for a high-intensity interval training class but once I got home after work, I felt like putting on my jammies and lounging on the couch. What did I end up doing? What was my thought process? How did I conquer the situation? Read on for the inside scoop!
How To Get Yourself To The Gym On Days When It’s The Last Place You Want To Be
I’m no fitness guru or motivational speaker, believe me, but I did find myself reflecting on the situation I experienced yesterday. A part of me really wanted to stay home and skip the grueling workout ahead, but the other part wanted to push myself and get to that class. I knew that if I stayed home I would feel good relaxing but it wouldn’t last because I’d end up feeling guilty for missing a workout. I then set my sights on my long-term goal: getting to the gym 4x a week and getting my heart rate up each day. With a recent bike injury and never-ending stress at work, I was not meeting my personal goals- heck, I wasn’t even close.
That’s when I decided to put on my leggings, lace up my sneakers and head to the gym. The push to get there proved difficult, but after the workout, and even during, I was glad to be there and genuinely proud of myself. I know I love to workout but the hardest part for me is showing up. If you’re ever feeling the same way I often do, I recommend investing in some new gym clothes to make you feel confident, finding a workout buddy and taking classes at your gym; the latter two will make you accountable. Remember: you’re a work in progress and so is your exercise routine. Just always think of what you’re hoping to achieve in the long-term. With this in mind, you’ll almost always make the right (and best) decision for your mind, body, and soul.