I’ve always been the type of person that never could motivate myself to work out. I don’t really mind it and actually enjoy working out but I couldn’t bring myself to get into a routine. I’d go through phases of working out once a week or doing a little every day for 2 weeks or so before I’d lose interest and motivation. Even when I was little I’d go on runs with my dad so I’ve always had this little desire to get out and active but one I realized I’m not athletically talented, I never pursued it. It feels so good for me to be fit and active and eat healthily so working out is a natural extension of that, but I’ve always had a hard time giving myself a bigger reason to commit to it.
I remember a few months ago it was a day that I was feeling very anxious all around, about nothing specific and I was just getting more anxious sitting around and wasting time. I’ve always read that exercise really helps lessen feelings of anxiety but never took the advice seriously until this one day. And of course working out comes along with a confidence boost and we could all use a little more body confidence. So I saw this ad on Refinery 29 for an app called 8fit and it has a work out regimen planned out for you with videos and advice to keep you going. Once I had a structured plan it made it easier for me to motivate myself to get on an elliptical or go for a walk so I could get my 4 fire emojis and green dots for the week.
Now, I’m working out with the 8fit app or doing some other physical activity at least 4 times a week and have been for about 3 months now. I’m feeling more confident, I have more energy, and it just feels good to get through a work out when I don’t think I can do it. I know that working out is something I can turn to when I’m feeling anxious to help me relax and clear my head. Working out has become my refuge in a stressful week, drama with friends, or sheer boredom. I feel much more motivated to eat better when I think about the effort I’m putting into one part of my health.
I’m planning on upping my active days to 5 days a week to motivate me to get up and out and I’m really excited about it. I love feeling and seeing the progress I’m making in my mindset and physical health. It takes commitment but planning on even 10 minutes of active time a few times a week will really make a big difference in how you’re feeling. 3 months in, I’m so glad I started when I did and I even wish I had started working out regularly years ago. I love the way it makes me feel and gives me my time to shut off and not think about what’s stressing me out. It can seem like a lot at first but it gets easier to motivate yourself to get up and active.
How about you? Do you have a work out routine? What’s your motivation?