Do you struggle with staying consistent with exercising? Do you dread every time you have to go to the gym – or even worse, you’re only exercising to lose weight?
It’s common, and if you’re wondering why you can’t stick with exercise for more than a few weeks, then this is the episode for you!
In this episode, I’m sharing 3 quick tips to stay motivated and consistent with exercise and *gasp* even enjoy it.
Motivation Hacks for Exercise: How to Make Working Out Actually Fun
Today, we’re diving into that ever-elusive beast: exercise motivation. You know what I mean—those days when we’re on fire, ready to conquer the world, new sneakers in hand, playlist blasting. And then…there are the other days. The ones where you can’t even talk yourself into a stroll around the block.
Let’s face it: our relationship with exercise is complicated. So, how can we make fitness a little less black-and-white and a lot more fun?
Tip 1: Do What You Actually Like
Forget the latest fitness fads telling you what you have to do. HIIT, hot girl walks, Pilates… If you’re forcing yourself into workouts you hate, your motivation will last, oh, about three days max. Here’s a trick: think back to what you enjoyed as a kid. Biking? Swimming? Running around playing tag? That’s where the fun lives!
For me, it was soccer—found an adult league, drove 45 minutes each way, and loved every second. If it’s not fun, you won’t stick with it, so pick something that makes you excited to get moving.
Tip 2: Pick the Right Time—Your Time
Are you a morning person or a night owl? If getting up before sunrise to work out sounds like torture, don’t do it! Likewise, if evenings are your me-time, don’t force it. Think about the time of day when you’re least likely to bail, and go from there. Personally, I’m not about that nighttime workout life—mornings are where it’s at for me. But if you’re a night owl who thrives on a late workout, go for it. Own your schedule and work with what you’ve got.
Tip 3: Set Yourself Up for Success
Sometimes it’s all about removing the little excuses that pop up. Ever tried this? Lay out your clothes the night before (yes, even if that means sleeping in your sports bra!), get your water bottle filled, and have your sneakers by the door. Anything you can do to eliminate morning grogginess or post-work fatigue will help. If it’s all ready to go, your only job is to get up, suit up, and show up!
Tip 4: Harness the Power of Your Future Self
When your alarm goes off, and all you want is to stay cozy in bed, think about future you—the one who just crushed her workout and is riding that post-exercise high. Imagine how she feels. Spoiler alert: she’s awesome, proud, and ready to take on the day. When we make decisions from that perspective, getting up feels a little easier.
Tip 5: The Mel Robbins “5-Second Rule”
If visualizing future you isn’t enough, here’s a lightning-fast hack from Mel Robbins: countdown from five. Five, four, three, two, one… and go. There’s no time to negotiate, make excuses, or second-guess. Just get up and do it! Sometimes, you just need to flip the switch, right?
Make It About More Than Just Weight Loss
Here’s a real game-changer: let’s stop using the scale as the only reason to work out. Yes, exercise is great for weight loss, but it’s not the whole story. Exercise helps us feel confident, patient, kind, and energized. It helps us sleep better, handle stress, and make healthier choices. These are the non-scale victories that keep us coming back, even when progress isn’t immediately visible.
So, remember: do what you enjoy, pick a time that works for you, set yourself up for success, imagine your future self, and maybe try that “5-second rule.” Let’s keep exercise fun, realistic, and pressure-free. And don’t forget to DM me your thoughts—I love hearing what resonated with you.
Follow me for daily tips on Instagram! @kellylwellness
Are you ready to stop overeating and finally be in control around food? Watch my FREE training How to Stop Binge Eating (Without Cutting Out Your Favorite Foods) to learn how it’s possible!
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