Ever promised yourself five Sundays in a row that you will start working out the following day only to postpone it to the next one?
Ever order take-out instead of working out? Me too.
Working out is probably my least favorite thing to do. I hate it. I hate gyms and sweating in public. Even working out at home feels like a chore (although, after I’m glad I do). The only exercise I can stand is yoga or pilates, which lacks the monotonous-like routine of a treadmill or weights. Plus, I’m not staring at a clock wondering if seconds have always moved that slowly.
The issue I and a lot of other people have with working out is the motivation to actually start doing it. There are always a million other things I need to do when I realize I need to work out and the show I’m watching suddenly becomes much more interesting. So, what makes people want to work out? Maybe they watch Shia Lebouf’s motivational video, “Just Do it”.
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXsQAXx_ao0[/embedyt]
Maybe they reward themselves with a glass of wine. Or work out with a friend.
NYGal asked 15 people their best fitness motivation tips and this is what they said…
Toby, 26
I do it for energy when consistently done. Staying pain-free with strong muscles. Being strong when needed.
Ellie, 22
I think a lot of people miss the trick with the gym. It should be something that you have to motivate for. It should just be part of your life like brushing your hair every day. But, other things that do motivate me are going with friends, going to classes e.g. Zumba, the after feeling, doing it so you don’t feel guilty about having that unhealthy meal, and the growth in confidence.
Jesse, 23
When you look at an older person who has looked after themselves and is still in great shape, that’s motivation.
Jackie, 50
I go to the gym because I put on loads of weight with the onset of menopause and found the symptoms were elevated by exercise. I love hiking in the mountains and it means I get to spend quality time with my husband together and keep fit.
Diana, 21
Just looking at my fat saggy ass. For me, it was when I lost 16 kg, it was a rewarding relief to see the progress. Now, every time I feel heavy indigestion or like I need to do something, the first thing is always fitness. A good workout just makes you feel better in all ways. I think about how I’m going to get rid of negative energy and in the end look and feel better. Every day I want to push myself to be better.
Paulina, 31
My motivation to start gym training was my illness. I have a chronical autoimmune disease – dermatomyositis (muscle and skin inflammation). Because of it, I lost weight and my muscles became weak. I was depressed about the fact that I need to live with this illness for the rest of my life and, as a young woman, I wasn’t happy about my body shape as well. My goal is to become stronger than I ever was even before my illness, and not let it destroy more of my body and my mind. And I wish to have a sexy bum.
Laura, 30
Having an accountability partner or group is huge for me. My friend and I did the Couch to 5K app together and texted our results every time we finished a workout.
Catherine, 26
To set a goal and accomplish it; like running time/distance or to reach a certain rep or to go up in reps. It helps to motivate me because I know I’m improving. Buying myself gear like running shoes or cute leggings or fanny packs or headphones because helps me stay motivated for my goals and it’s also a treat! Did I mention cute work out outfits is a big motivation? Also, paying attention to how I can breath better or lift something easier and then making a big deal out of it so I can feel accomplished!
Mark, 25
To be healthy for my partner. To feel good and to look a certain way that makes me happy. Also, to relieve anxiety and stress.
Sorcha, 27
That I get to eat more if I exercise.
David, 45
I have recently taken up playing squash with a German friend who is super fit. It is fast and hard and I’m left spent and dripping in sweat. It’s a great way to de-stress and work out my frustrations.
Rachel, 17
Fitness and nutrition go hand in hand. Eat to live (and lift), don’t live to eat. Physical fitness not only shapes your body but also your mind. Most athletes cycle their workouts to maximize their performance. When bulking or building muscle, the body needs a consistent routine of macronutrients and exercise. When leaning or losing fat (in order to see your muscle gain) most athletes choose to “clean” their macros and add cardio to their routine.
Shane, 25
I like the accomplishment. Being able to do something I wasn’t able to do before.
Tracy, 53
I usually am motivated by friends who enjoy working out, or by knowing that working out makes my whole body feel relaxed and calm. It also makes me feel more positive and confident.
Asa, 35
Boxing gives me discipline and also helped me have confidence as I was bullied by two older boys when I was in school. It keeps me agile and I enjoy the training as it is not a vain sport. No posing in the gym! On a physical level, it is the best all-around work out for me and great for focus.
