Updated: December 13, 2021

“If you can think it, you can do it.” – John Burroughs

When it comes to being active and finding the drive to exercise consistently, you must have the right mindset to get the most out of your workout. There are many ways to prepare your mind and body for exercise, and below we list a few ideas. Consider incorporating some of these options into your daily routine so you can #PerformBetterinLife ! 

Start with a Great Playlist 

At times, exercising can feel like a chore, and finding the motivation to start and complete a workout can be harder on some days than others. A great playlist can help you to power through your workout. You can choose upbeat songs that you love and add some fun to your training. 

You can also ask Alexa or Siri to play a random rotation of workout songs to get you going and possibly take your mind off negative thoughts or stressors in your life. Music can help to speed your workout up and pass the time. You’ll be finished with your training before you know it. 

Create and Stick to a Routine

Consistency is key to achieving fitness goals, so creating and sticking to a workout routine is crucial. A workout routine helps to provide structure and is a great way to measure and track your efforts towards reaching fitness milestones. You need to know how well you’re doing and if you need to adjust specific techniques and methods, and the only way to accurately do this is by being consistent. 

Start by selecting specific days and times to workout, which will help you mentally prepare for the actual workout. If you hire a trainer, the trainer will likely have a plan for your workout ahead of time. If you are working out on your own, determine your workout plan for the day (or even week) ahead of time so you can eliminate feelings of being lost in the gym. Many people walk into the gym and, according to HeandSheEatClean.com, end up wandering around looking for equipment or just reverting to cardio which may not fully align with your overall fitness goals. 

If needed, creating a fitness routine could transfer over into other aspects of your life and jumpstart consistency in areas that need a little push. It’s a win-win all the way around. Remember — proper planning prevents poor performance!

Find a Good Trainer

People work out to lose weight, gain muscle and tone, or improve their stamina. No matter the reason, a personal trainer is essential to reaching your personal fitness goals. Trainers not only have the education and experience to train the body, but they also understand the psychology behind training your mind to help you achieve your goals. 

Suppose you search for an experienced personal trainer. In that case, you should focus on one who takes their continuing education seriously. Skill-level increases when trainers enhance their knowledge and continue to learn more about nutrition, safety, and technique. A good trainer will also have the ability to listen to you and will be dedicated to helping you adapt to an overall healthy lifestyle. A good personal trainer is not the only key to your physical growth and progression, but your mental development and adding one to your exercise regimen can do wonders for your health. 

Invest in Nice Workout Clothes 

When you invest in quality workout gear, you will more than likely get excited about working out. Most people have heard the saying “when you look good, you feel good,” and workout gear is no exception to this rule. The appearance of your athletic clothes not only changes your mood, but when you purchase quality athletic clothes, it improves your workout experience. 

Manufacturers of quality athletic gear use breathable fabrics that stretch, move, absorb sweat, and do not constrict motion that can keep you comfortable and moving right while working out. You should feel the “burn” and still be comfortable with the ability to have a range of motion that will help you to stretch and grow within your workout routine. 

Are you thinking about the expense? Quality workout clothes don’t have to break the bank. Brands like Gymshark, Athleta, Fabletics, and Target all carry affordable athletic wear lines that host clothing for both men and women.  

Switch it Up 

While developing a workout routine and sticking to it is very important, switching things up now and then is a great idea. Doing the same types of exercises all the time can become monotonous and boring. When you switch it up, you automatically add newness and excitement to your workout routine. You become more alert knowing that the exercise or activity is new, and this should raise your focus level, increase your participation, and hopefully provide you with some fun.

Are you usually a gym rat? You can switch it up by visiting a nearby hiking trail and having a goal to visit the hiking trail once per month. Do you usually stick to the treadmill? Try a cycling class at the gym or find an online pilates class. Switch it up and give yourself something to look forward to while still getting your training in for the day. 

Find a Workout Buddy 

Whether it’s a friend, co-worker, or significant other, you will immediately invite a new level of consistency, accountability, and positivity to your workout regimen when you find a workout partner. A workout partner is there to walk (or run) with you through your fitness journey. They provide support and accountability and add another level of protection and comfortability to your exercises. Knowing that you have a partner to spot you during workouts or encourage you to try a new routine and lift heavier weights is excellent for boosting morale and positivity. 

Set Smaller Fitness Goals

Most people set goals that are massive and usually take quite some time to achieve. Setting smaller goals is a super helpful tactic to staying positive and pushing forward because you will feel like you are getting closer to “the stars” by “landing on the moon” a little sooner. 

If your overall goal is to lose weight, instead of just saying, “I want to lose 50 pounds”, you might set a smaller goal to lose 8 pounds per month. This mindset and focus will help you to stay motivated to continue the journey because you will experience small wins along the way.