Whether it’s after a long day at work or you simply aren’t feeling up to it, there are times when we are all tempted to skip the gym and make a beeline home for the couch, drink a glass of wine and relax with some Netflix. However, there is always the inescapable regret when you take the easy option and realise that by the time you finally chose which episode of Mad Men you could have already been to the gym and back with another step towards your fitness goals.
So the age-old question asked by countless members of the fitness community is what is the secret to getting motivated for the gym when we are tired, stressed and flat? Of course, the reality is that reaching your fitness goals, whatever they may be, takes a tonne of hard work and dedication. However, there are a number of different ways to help boost your drive and get you hitting the weights, and owning the right gym gear is one of the best steps you can take.
Firstly, anyone will notice an immediate difference when they change from their restrictive office clothes into some comfortable, breathable sportswear. If you haven’t already, go out and buy yourself some clothes that make you look and feel good — brands like Russell Athletic design apparel that accentuates athletic physique and looks fashionable in the process. This helps you notice and appreciate changes in your body as you work hard to achieve your goals.
Aside from the natural change in mood, putting money into a purchase of new gear adds a financial incentive that will be wasted if you choose to leave it in the wardrobe and not work out. Combined with the cost of a gym membership, this puts your hard-earned money on the line and gives you a much more tangible commitment to stick to than a long term vision of weight loss, ripped muscles or a faster time on the track.
One of the key mistakes people make with fitness is setting the bar too high at the start — while you want to push yourself, set short term goals that help you get over the lethargy. If you’re going straight from work, try changing into your gym clothes at the office to help you remain accountable to yourself and to others. In addition, this will enforce your commitment on the way to the gym and discourage you from skipping your workout at the last minute. If you feel like you might convince yourself to have yet another cheat day, commit to simply showing up at the gym and leaving if you don’t feel like it. Once you arrive, it will be much easier to go in and at least put in a small session, which can turn into a full workout once you get the blood pumping.
