It’s starting to get pretty bloody cold. This makes it pretty tough to get yourself to the gym, especially if you go to the gym first thing in the morning or after a long day at work. Your internal body clock is telling you to get to bed sooner because it’s darker outside too. Maybe you’ll slip on the ice on the way to the gym… better stay inside. These are actually just some poor excuses to hide the fact that you can’t be bothered! So here are some things that might help you boost your willpower to get to the gym.
1. Do something you actually enjoy
This might seem stupid but if you hate running, and all you do is run on a treadmill at the gym to burn calories, you might want to change it up a bit. Do some circuits, try a different cardio machine, or lift some weights! If your workout is new, exciting and challenging, the chances are that you’ll be more motivated the next time you go to the gym.
2. Workout at home If you just can’t work up the willpower to step out into the cold then do a home workout. There are unlimited resources online so you can’t use “I don’t know what to do!” as an excuse. Use your own body weight to work up a sweat! 3. Find a friend Staying motivated to work out in the winter, and anytime of the year for that matter, is much easier when you have a friend by your side. (And, well, someone to call and wake you up if you accidentally sleep through your alarm.) By scheduling a run, some gym time, or fitness classes throughout the week, you’ll keep each other accountable. No one wants to be a no-show when their pal is depending on them. 4. Buy some new gear Combat the cold by buying some new warm leggings, a new thermal baselayer, or something that just makes you want to train! Once you get something, you’re going to want to break it in. I’m a sucker for a pair of new trainers… 5. Create some winter goals Just because Christmas and New Year is approaching doesn’t mean you can slack off and put your goals on hold. Set a few goals to achieve between now and Christmas. You’ll feel better for it when you achieve them, and creating a goal might just give you that little push to start killing it in the gym. Get a head start on your New Year's resolutions!