Tips for Finding Your Fitness Motivation

There is really no better time than now to live a healthy lifestyle, but I would be lying if I said the process is easy. Staying motivated to get your fitness on is difficult even before you set foot in the gym and a lot of that has to do with a lack of motivation.

As much as we would all love to be fit and trim, it takes hard work and dedication to eventually get there, but don’t get intimidated. While finding your motivation can be difficult at times, there are a number of tips I stick to, so I can reach my fitness goal, and of course, enjoy the process while I do it.

Join A Community

I have to admit that I wasn’t always keen on working out around others because I preferred being alone. I used to shy away from classes, and instead, would revert to working out at my condo gym or a more private setting, but I soon realized that what I was missing was the community aspect.

Recently, I’ve been visiting YMCA to get my sweat on, and it’s become my perfect mid-day escape throughout the week. Now my workouts are much more than just trying to “get fit”, but rather its about joining a community that also helps support positive change for others, and the community. And I can always get behind a place that promotes inclusivity!

The YMCA features a number of programs and services to help you reach your fitness goals, and with its community outreach efforts, you can’t help but feel like you are doing more than just lifting weights and cardio. I can also always count on the Y to make me feel part of something bigger, with members of all ages and fitness backgrounds.

Grab A Buddy

The buddy-system worked when you were a kid, and it still works to this day! Working out with a friend is a great way to stay active, without it feeling like a chore and it’s a sure way to keep you accountable.

A spin class or indoor rock climbing is a personal favourite of mine, but I also recently played a game of badminton at the Y, and, I worked up a sweat and had some fun at the same time! The most important thing is to have a buddy that you mutually support, so when you don’t feel up for a workout or activity, you have that friend that gives you the motivation and push that you need.

Make A Plan

Setting a schedule for your week will easily keep you focused without having to overthink what classes and workouts you have coming up. Every Sunday morning I quickly write down where and when I can fit in my workouts, and even set time aside to sign up for classes if I need to.

When I really need convenience for the week, I tend to stick to the YMCA and plan my activities according to my work schedule. And I have to be honest, it also helps when I have to be somewhere afterwards and I need to get ready after my workout! While you make plans for your workouts it’s also the perfect time to make a plan for your goals. Nothing is more motivating than logging progress and seeing your gradual results!

Change It Up!

First and foremost, if you aren’t enjoying what you are doing and especially not enjoying your progress, then it’s no longer fun! I’ve become much more interested in changing up my activities to help keep things stimulating and to really help take the pressure off of focusing on big results.

My favourite part about visiting the YMCA has always been the fact that there are so many activities under one roof. Badminton with a buddy, a few runs around the running track, and a good swim are the perfect additions to your workout regime so you can easily tailor your workout to your mood.

I can assure you that while sometimes working out and living a healthier lifestyle can be a lot of work, I promise that once you get into a routine, join a community like your local YMCA, grab a buddy and keep things interesting, you will be surprised at your results and how amazing you will feel!

Thank you YMCA for sponsoring this post. All opinions are my own!

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