How to Have a Better Attitude Toward Fitness

Staying active and engaging in a regular fitness routine is good for your health – but we all know how difficult it can be to gather up the motivation to actually get out of bed and leave the house to go work out. You know that after you work out, you’re energized, you feel accomplished and you’re motivated to keep up the good work. So why is it so difficult to be consistent and work out on a regular basis? It all comes down to attitude and motivation – it’s important to keep yourself inspired and approach your outlook towards fitness with enthusiasm and a positive attitude. Our mind is a very powerful thing so it’s important to train our thoughts just as much as we do our body. Here are a few tips on how to have a better attitude toward fitness:

Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

If you are constantly comparing yourself to the person next to you at the gym who runs faster and longer than you do, or your neighbor who seems to exercise all day long you will force yourself into a really negative mindset that can ultimately lead to you quitting. Give credit where credit is due and be realistic about your expectations of yourself. This is why it’s important to work with professionals, like our clinic, who can help you set realistic goals and put together a customized plan for your unique wants and needs. 

Set Small Goals

If you’re newly establishing your fitness routine make sure to start small. Work your way up to longer runs and heavier weights so that you don’t burn out too quickly. As you build up your strength and stamina you will feel good when you increase your workouts and this in turn will motivate you to keep going and stay committed. 

Do Exercises That You Actually Enjoy

Just because Zumba or CrossFit are the trendy workout to do right now doesn’t mean that it’s the right choice for you. Now, if you enjoy Zumba or CrossFit then by all means do what makes you happy – but the important takeaway here is to commit to something that you will actually enjoy. Whether that’s Pilates, yoga, running, swimming or something else it’s up to you to decide what makes you happy and will also get you closer to achieving your fitness goals. Also, don’t push yourself too hard when you try something new – one of the main reasons people quit is that they overwork themselves at the beginning leading to stress, fatigue, injury and low self-esteem. 

Stop Making Excuses

It’s easy to convince yourself to skip a workout – you’re too tired, you’re hungry, you’ll workout harder tomorrow, etc. Whether you choose to wake up early for an exercise class, power through lunch for a Pilates lesson or end your day sweating at the gym don’t make excuses for skipping out on your routine. Remind yourself of how good you feel physically and mentally after you complete a workout – this alone should motivate you to get to the gym or to your next class!

Keep Track of Results

There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing results from your fitness habits. Make sure to track your progress – it’ll keep you motivated and inspired to keep going! 

Workout with a Friend

It’s so much easier to keep yourself on track when you have someone else holding you accountable. Working out with a friend means that you both show up for each other and that you support and encourage each other’s health goals. You’re also more likely to not skip a workout if you know that someone is waiting for you at the gym!

Buy New Clothes & Equipment

You don’t have to splurge on big fitness items or the most expensive yoga mat and accessories on the market. However, it will help and be a motivating factor if you treat yourself to some new workout clothes that you will feel good in. Something as simple as investing in your fitness goals can actually help you achieve them! Find comfy, flattering workout attire or new, supportive sneakers that you will want to exercise in. Buy the exercise equipment that you really need and will use – some light dumbbells, exercise bands and a yoga mat are enough to help you get started. 

Have you ever heard the saying “mind over matter?” Some days you’ll be thrilled to exercise, while others you’ll be dragging your feet. The important thing is to stay positive and motivate yourself to stay committed to your health and fitness goals. If you have any questions about a healthy lifestyle, weight loss programs or need a support system to help you achieve your goals, please don’t hesitate to contact us.