10 ways to find workout motivation

If dreary days are killing your workout mojo, check out these 10 ways to find workout motivation.  As back in the summer we were all about heading out for runs before work and drinking green smoothies for our breakfast, but as soon as the season changed the only green thing we’ve seen is Shrek on our TV screen while we were curled up on the sofa eating a pizza.

Finding motivation this winter can require a lot of determination, so put those cold weather blues behind us, climb out from under that duvet and get ready to exit hibernation mode.

Make a workout date

We are all creatures of habit, so start making a routine of jotting down when and where you can fit in some time for exercise. Whether it’s in the morning, during your lunch break, or in the evening, you’ll find yourself more committed to working out if you’ve made the effort to schedule it into your day. You wouldn’t cancel plans made with friends, so why make exercise any less of a priority? Fit in that killer workout now.

Unleash your sporty style

Whether it’s just a buying a new sports bra, some posh leggings, or those trainers you’ve wanted for ages, often all you need to motivate you is some new sports clothing. Check out the latest AW16 activewear collections from H&M, Sweaty Betty and Nike for extra inspiration.

Gym gear at the ready

Now you’ve got the style to go with the sweat, a top tip for finding motivation to exercise (especially in the mornings) is simply have your workout clothes ready and prepared for you in advance. That way, you’ll spend less time finding excuses to skip working out.

Move to the beat

We all know the dreaded feeling of hearing our morning alarm go off. Not exactly pleasant or motivating, right? Jazz up your alarm by having your favourite song or the radio play to put a spring in your step and start your day with some feel-good vibes.

Tap into technology

Remember when you were younger and you couldn’t wait to use your new Christmas toy? Well, you are never too old to get excited to try something new. In fact, gadgets like a fitness watch, heart rate monitor or mobile apps can help motivate you to make the most out of your workout.

Warm up properly

That typical ‘should I, shan’t I’ mind debate before having a workout can be a tricky one – especially when it’s cold and dark outside. So get your rear into gear and plug in your headphones, listen to some music and start warming up indoors. It doesn’t matter where you are, because once your body starts moving, your heart rate quickens and your blood gets busy pumping around ‘happy’ hormones.

Set a goal

Everybody likes to end their day knowing that they have achieved something. No matter how big or small, setting goals is crucial to self-motivation. In this game, it’s only you against you.   Create a checklist, journal, timetable or even a diary to write down exactly what you want to achieve this winter and how you are going to go about doing it. Remember, failing to plan is planning to fail.

Have a workout buddy

Making plans with someone else will force you to be fully engaged within the activity – helping you stay away from boredom that could take you down the path of laziness. You will both be relying on each other to turn up, and that guilt-inducing pressure is exactly what you need to get you exercising throughout the seasonal change.

Track your progress

Keep notes on your progress – list the times when you lacked motivation and other times when you felt like a complete fitness superstar.  There will be a pattern, and once you are aware of it you can work with yourself and continue developing. So grab a pen and paper, call up a friend, make a date with the gym and start planning your winter fitness goals.

Listen up

Let’s be honest here, there’s no ‘quick fix’ to getting fit, so get reading and learn the facts. Finding inspirational podcasts can help with motivation, so why not listen to one while on your walks/runs? Ben Coomber’s podcasts are one of our favourites.