Summer is basically here, and what does that mean? Hot weather. Hot weather calls for shorts, tank tops, bikinis and beaches. Coming out of the cooler weather, our bodies may not be where we want, and it's often difficult to motivate ourselves when summer starts to get those summer bodies. We have all been at that point when we start working out, get super motivated to be healthier and then during winter — boom, all of a sudden, we can't get ourselves to put on those running shoes and go for a run or eat healthily. It's not uncommon; even for me there have been points where I was just not motivated to work out and would much rather order pizza than cook. As I'm writing this, I am actually coming out of a slump myself. I want to inspire you to re-motivate yourself and get back on that fitness grind. They always say the hardest part is getting started, so here are 10 ways to jump-start once again and get out of that fitness slump.
1. Set a short-term goal.
Of course, our goal is to be healthy and fit long-term, but to get out of a current slump, a short-term goal will instantly motivate you to get moving quick. Whether it's lose two pounds by next week, no carbs for a week or this week I will run every day; whatever your personal goal may be (as everyone is different), stick to it! Pursuing a short-term goal will push you to not disappoint yourself, and once you get to that goal, you set another and eventually you will keep striving for more. This gets you working hard in a short amount of time, and eventually next week's warmup might be this week's workout!
2. Nutrition is key.
Everybody knows that you can't outwork a bad diet. Whether your goal is to lose weight or just be healthier, it all starts from within. A well-balanced diet will provide you with natural energy and help fuel your body for your workouts as well as help your metabolism. Grocery shopping for healthy food will decrease the chances that you will cheat and relapse. Purchase foods that taste good but are also healthy. Color is good: fruits and vegetables fill your body with plenty of nutrients and natural sugars to energize and cleanse.
3. Get yourself a popping playlist.
Music is so important to me when I work out; it gets me hyped and energized. It really sets the tone for a workout. Especially when that one song comes on and it makes you push a little big harder, do more reps or run a little bit faster, music is really key. Whatever type gets you going, download it and get moving.
4. Find a workout partner.
Running and working out in general can be so much more enjoyable and not as dreadful if you have a buddy to endure it with you! Find yourself somebody and motivate each other to get up in the mornings and get out there! Whether it's hiking, walking, running or going to the gym, it's easier to go if you have someone else to show up for.
5. Reward yourself.
It's so much more rewarding when I run to a destination, like running to your favorite coffee shop or smoothie place, so you get yourself a healthy treat after your workout. It's always important to give yourself credit for the hard work you've done.
6. Money motivates.
If you're one to press snooze when your alarm goes off, then here's the solution: Pay for yourself to get out of that slump. Signing up for fitness classes or yoga will ensure that you go so that you don't lose your money, and eventually you'll be good to go on your own.
7. Get a health planner.
Planning your day can really keep you on track. When you can visually see what you need to accomplish during that day, it makes completing it much easier. Planning your meals and workouts, as well as how much water to intake during that day and any other important details, will ensure that you get it done.
8. Balance your sleeping patterns.
I know this one can vary person to person depending on your existing schedule, but prioritizing sleep will ensure that you wake up freshly energized and will uplift your mood, allowing you to be ready to take on your day!
9. Get outside and try something different.
Fitness should be fun! It should be something new every day to push and challenge your body, keeping it guessing what's next. Changing up your scenery and trying new things will take you out of that boring old routine you're dreading and inspire you to see what else you can achieve!
10. Get excited!
This should be exciting! You are working towards a hot body, a healthier and happier you. Be happy and get up every day ready to better yourself and go out there and make a change! It's not going to get any better sitting on the couch, so you might as well get your butt up and get out there! Nobody ever regrets a workout.
I hope these tips help motivate you to get back out there and take control of your life. Like previously mentioned, the hardest part is getting started.
