My Tips For Making it Through a Tough Workout

We've all been there. We all visit there once in awhile, or maybe more often than we'd like. The "I DON'T WANT TO WORK OUT" place.

I spent 20 years refusing to work out at all, so I get it.

I've thought up some tips that will hopefully help you out. I also asked a couple of friends for their input -- thank you Molly, Hilary and Sarah :).

1. Figure out WHY: Why are you working out? Is it to lose weight? Get healthier? Those are good, but they're vague. How much weight do you want to lose? What does getting healthier actually MEAN? Is it measured by cholesterol points, body fat percentage, or something else? Is it fitness related? "Getting stronger" is a good place to start, but make it more specific --- "Be able to bench press 150 lbs" or "Execute a perfect high roundhouse kick" (that's one of my current ones!). Write your WHY down ON PAPER!

The point is, the bigger and more detailed your WHY is, the more likely you are to actually accomplish your goals. Which brings me to my next point --

2. Goals: SMART goals. Specific, Measureable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely. Don't set a goal to lose 50lbs by tomorrow; it's not gonna happen. But 50 lbs by September of next year is totally doable. 

3. Mentally Prepare: Great, so you've figured out your WHY and your specific Goals. Now you're ready to go. And let's face it some workouts just are not easy. Did you buy P90x or Insanity? You're in for one heck of a ride. Mentally prepare by understanding what's coming, and embrace the CHALLENGE! 

4. Find a Workout Buddy: omg!! This has been ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL for my journey. If I had no one in my corner supporting me I would be a dead duck. I can't even tell you. When I started becoming interested in losing weight years ago, I found a couple of buddies online I exchanged emails with and we helped keep each other on track. I did not feel comfortable talking to anyone at the gym or anyone in real life about what I was doing. I mean, I know firsthand that people will try to sabotage you and derail your efforts. That's why you have to find some people who are on the same train as you. Is there anyone out there that needs some support? I'll be your buddy! Go Here and click join, and I will connect with you from there. If you are doing any home workout programs I can probably connect you with people who are doing the same ones.

I did eventually start talking to people at the gym. Poor Mike, lol

5. Get Into A Routine: This one is self-explanatory. It is WAY TOO EASY to skip a workout when you don't have a set routine. You can plan on doing it before work in the morning, but then later tell yourself you'll do it after work, and you never do it. Sound familiar? Get into a routine. Just do it. Find out what time works for you and stick to it. And stay accountable with buddies I mentioned in the previous step.

6. Mantras or Positive Sayings: These can help when you are ready to die. Say to yourself, "I can do this" or "Push harder" or anything that motivates you! Everyone likes different types of quotes so whatever works for you, use it. Do you work out at home? Post some quotes and sayings on the walls of your workout room!

7. Music: Music matters!! Nothing like a great new playlist to motivate you to get movin', especially if you are not doing group classes or home DVDs.

8. Lastly: The last thing I would like to say is, know when to stop. Know when to push yourself and know when you are doing too much and need to stop. We don't want any injuries!! Alongside of that, if you really hate EVERY SINGLE WORKOUT you are doing.... don't do it. Find something ELSE that you will want to commit to. There is an activity or a soulmate workout out there for everyone. You just have to find it. And trust me, I tried EVERYTHING before I found my loves in Turbokick and BodyCombat classes!! 

Anyone have anything to add to this list?