Let's admit it, working out and staying consistent is often hard to do. There are many days where I have to literally talk myself into going to the gym. Can you relate? Not only that, but actually getting a great workout where it is worth my time. Let's be real, some of us get dressed, go to the gym and chat with friends or barely workout, just doing the bare minimum. This behavior has disaster written all over it and you are only selling yourself short in the end. Losing weight or whatever you're health goals are, requires that you put in 100% effort to get the results you desire. You have to be in it to win it. Ask yourself, "How bad do I want it? Your health and fitness goals do not have to be jeopardized. I have put together a No Slacker's Zone list that will help you to recharge, refocus and get you pumped up for your fitness journey.
1. Schedule your workouts
If you actually schedule in your workouts on a calendar, and post it where you can see it, you are more likely to stick to a consistent routine. Often, we brush off exercise and fit it in when and where we can but if you really are serious about it then it will become a part of your daily routine like getting up going to work. Personally, I cannot always make it to the gym, but I do take the time to workout at home if need be.
2. Determine the duration of your workout
Get the most out of your workouts by setting a specific time that you will spend on cardio as well as strength training. I used to be one that was in and out the gym in 25-30 minutes flat. Although 30 minutes is not bad IF you have really got in there and kicked butt. If you leave the gym feeling just as happy go lucky as when you went in, then you didn't really workout and that equals wasted time. You could have just stayed home and had a donut, I'm just saying...Lol.
3. Stay Fueled
Staying hydrated is key to any great workout. If you are sweating a lot when you workout then you are losing a lot of electrolytes. This could in turn lead to dehydration which will make you tire real quick. Dehydration can cause health problems such as heat stroke, kidney problems and cardio-vascular issues. Water is the best choice for hydration but sports drinks are also a good option if not filled with tons of artificial sweetener's.
4. Dress for success
I am not saying you have to run out and buy all the latest workout gear, but you should have some level of care of what you are wearing when you go to the gym. I strongly believe that when you dress in a way that makes you feel good, it boosts your confidence and self-esteem. You will perform at a higher level if you look and feel great. Bright colors compared to dark colors are definitely more uplifting and puts you in a good mood. The point is to not just throw on any old thing and run out the door, but to coordinate your workout clothes with nice matching colors that make you feel good.
5. Be patient with the process
I am learning this rule. Often we think that we are supposed to drop all this weight in a short period of time because we have been working out for a month straight. Wishful thinking, huh?! If it were only that easy. I have found that the older I get, I have to workout a LOT more to even see a few pounds come off, imagine that! Your metabolism will certainly let you know that you are no longer a spring chicken and that you have to work for every pound! Anything worth having takes time so be patient with the process. I have decided to not focus so much on the weight loss and being stressed over every pound but to just focus on the process and enjoy the journey by finding fun activities to challenge me and to most of all love myself and not compare to others.
Miss InspireU
XOXO
