8 Tips that Will Help You Stick to Your Workout Plan

Sticking to your workout plan requires an extra measure of motivation some days. Even the most determined athletes have fallen off the fitness wagon a time or two. It is not hard to convince yourself out of exercising. Excuses like “The weather is bad” or “I’m too tired” may overrun your previous workout plans.

Whether you are just getting started with a workout plan, are currently on a hiatus and need a little encouragement to get back to the gym or you are simply trying to prevent excessive couch time in your life, try these foolproof tips that will help you stick to your desired workout routine.

Manage Your Expectations

It is important to manage your expectations when it comes to your workout plan. Set the bar low when starting a new exercise routine. Think about it – do you start a marathon by sprinting or pacing yourself? Starting out slow is the best way to get a feel for the exercises without reaching burnout early on, which will help you to feel like you are making real accomplishment.

Keep in mind that many changes are slow to arrive. Do not compare yourself to a gym full of regulars who have been working on their goals for a long time. Focus on yourself and your goals that you can accomplish in the now.

Bring a Friend

Accountability from peers is an excellent motivator to help you stay on track with your workouts. This offers mutual accountability and can actually help you work out better while you have someone alongside you to cheer you on toward your goals. Studies even show that you will work out longer when a buddy is present, so this is a win-win.

Use Visual Aids

Grab a calendar and make an “x” over every day you hit the gym. When you look at your wall, you will see your progress, which will likely encourage you to press forward without taking breaks that could disrupt your momentum.

Change it Up

When you do the exact same thing day in and day out, you are prone to get bored. Do different types of workouts instead to exercise different muscle groups while keeping things interesting. If you usually hit the weight machines, shift things around and do some free weights instead or hop on the elliptical machine.

Sign Up for Something You Have to Show Up To

Commit yourself to a time and place where you have to show up a few days a week. Many classes require an investment of time and money. By signing up, you are setting yourself up for accountability that should motivate you to get to your workouts.

Another option is to sign up for a competition that requires you to put in training time in order to compete. A CrossFit competition, 5k or an obstacle race are excellent options.

Play a Sport

Sometimes you just need a break altogether – but before you get your sweatpants and Netflix on, consider playing a sport. Rock climbing, ultimate Frisbee, basketball, rugby, volleyball and many other activities are a great way to get a good workout in that you can still count to mark that “X” on your calendar.

Share Your Goals

Voice your workout goals to other people. Social media is a great outlet for this. When you share your plan with a group of people, ask that they hold you accountable or send you motivational mantras. This can give you an extra boost to keep moving forward toward your goals.

Take Photos

Sometimes the number on the scale can deceive you, which has the ability to encourage you to just throw in the towel for a while. Rather than just looking at numbers, take photos of how you look in your unmentionables. Keep a private album on your phone so you can track your progress to see changes, which will undoubtedly encourage you to keep hitting the gym.

If you practice these techniques, your workout plan can become a rewarding reality!