There are few things in life that feel better than the sweaty satisfaction after a good work out (except maybe downing an entire tray of brownies by yourself). But sometimes, that motivation to go push yourself at the gym can be hard to find. Anyone who loves that post work out high equally as much as pizza can probably relate to these phases of heading to the gym.
1. Motivation
Whether it comes from the countless fitness blogs that pop up on your news feed or the fact that you just bought a new pair of leggings that you’re ready to show off, something out there makes the idea of going to work out just wonderful!
2. Procrastination
Alright, you’re all dressed and ready to go. After you check your Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr, Pinterest, and, "What the heck why not your MySpace account while you’re at it?" might as well turn the TV on for some background noise. Oh shoot you were supposed to leave an hour ago. Don’t worry, you’ll get there at some point today ... maybe after one more episode of "Cupcake Wars" ...
3. Dread
OK, you’ve officially exhausted every form of social media known to man, and let's be real, you’ve seen this episode at least three times already. But laying on the couch for the rest of the day would be so much nicer than getting all sweaty and tired at the gym. Panting, sweating, weird old dudes watching you run. As fun as that all sounds … What’s one day off?
4. Second Wind
Yes, maybe one day off is fine but it's been four. Just go and walk on the treadmill for an hour! Anything to just get off your butt for a while!
5. The Workout Phase One: Unrealistic Expectations
Congratulations! You made it! Now just hop on that treadmill and get moving. A brisk walking pace soon becomes jogging, and hey, look at you go! You’re running! This isn’t so bad! Just make a mental goal for yourself, five miles is nothing!
6. The Workout Phase Two: Regret
Oh now you’re starting to feel the burn. You must be close to finishing. You look down and your distance is at .78 miles. What?! It hasn’t even been a mile yet? How did you convince yourself that this was a good idea?
7. The Workout Phase Three: The Final Stretch
Now that you’ve set a more realistic goal for yourself, it’s almost time for your cool down. Keep going, you got this!
8. Satisfaction
Look at that! You’re all done. You’re feeling unstoppable, confident, and your endorphins are running high. Why don’t you do this everyday?
9. Recovery (aka Feedin' Time)
Now everybody’s favorite part of a workout — FOOD! Maybe a nice salad would do the trick. Or possible some granola and almonds. Mmmm, is that In-N-Out you smell? Actually, I’ve heard milkshakes are a great, post-workout snack (Protein and calcium, am I right?) Screw you worked out today, you deserve a milkshake! And maybe some animal fries since you’re there.
10. Repeat the Next Day
You know, to work off that double-double you accidentally ordered too. And you gotta admit, it did feel pretty good overall!
Working out is such an important habit to get into, but it really should make you feel good. Don’t do it because you feel the need to, find something you enjoy and just get yourself moving! Also, don’t forget to treat yourself every once in a while too! And overall, just take good care of yourself; you deserve it!
