It takes a lot of motivation to work out, but you can eliminate half the battle by staying at home. However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t tempting to throw on a Netflix show or lay on the couch instead of sweating.
Here’s how you can work out at home, even when you don’t feel like it.
1. Find a Workout Routine You Love
A workout routine has three core aspects: cardio, strength training, and stretching. However, when we think of cardio, our minds go directly to jogging or running, which isn’t everyone’s favorite activity. This may cause you to avoid your newly purchased treadmill.
But don’t feel guilty about it; maybe running isn’t the right exercise for you. Instead of forcing yourself to run a few laps, try a HIIT routine, jumping rope, or cycling. You could even integrate cardio into your strength training routine by adding jumping squats or weighted lunges.
2. Join a Supportive Online Fitness Community
Online fitness communities like Physeek Fit can give you the motivation you need to keep going. When you’re at the gym, you might as well work out, but at home, you can come up with all kinds of excuses. Your online fitness community members will offer you the extra push.
If you’re not sure what exercises to perform or what diet to try, you can swap ideas with your friends online. However, if you have any allergies or injuries that may limit your choices, consult a doctor or a fitness professional beforehand. The last thing you want to do is hurt yourself.
3. Dress For the Fitness Session You Want
Our appearance can shape how we feel about ourselves, so if we’re working out with unflattering clothing or unkempt hair, it may make us feel insecure. While it’s true you’re working out to look and feel better; the future is pretty far away. But, you can look and feel better now.
Whether you feel more comfortable in spandex, loose shorts, without a shirt, or with a sports bra, wear something that makes you feel confident. Plus, you’re already wearing the clothing you’ll need to exercise comfortably and safely, so you might as well start doing a few pushups.
4. Have a Designated Workout Space
Your home isn’t a gym, so you may not have your equipment set up at all times. You may double your living room, basement, or bedroom as a gym, which can make it difficult to commit to your routine. Why? Because you associate your living spaces with something other than exercise.
While it isn’t always possible to set up a designated space, try to find a corner where you can place a yoga mat, a medicine ball, or a single weight. Even if the rest of your equipment is hidden, you’ll visually see some of it each day, so you can’t say you “forgot” to work out.
5. Block Off Time Just for Working Out
Would you remember your weekly meetings, dentist’s appointments, or bill payments without adding them to your calendar? If the answer is no, then pencil in time for exercise. Treat exercise like it’s a necessary appointment you can’t miss, or there will be “consequences” for it.
While the consequences for missing your workout may not be evident right away, they’ll catch up to you eventually. Still, it’s essential to also focus on the short-term effects, like reduced anxiety, better sleep, and improved focus, as that will motivate you to keep working out.
Final Words
While working out at home may seem like a lose-lose situation, it can actually be the best thing for your fitness. Not only will you get to stay home, but you’ll have access to the equipment you need at all times. If you’re still finding it hard to work out, try a low-impact yoga routine.
