Feel like stopping 10 minutes into your workout? Try these tricks to keep up the momentum.
You just started your workout and you already feel like quitting. Whether it’s because you’re out of shape, bored, or have too many things waiting for your attention, a half-hour workout can sometimes feel like an eternity. But you made it this far, so don’t give up yet. Persevere through your exercise routine and you’ll be glad you did. Don’t let negative thinking, distractions, or your sweaty brow keep you from what your body needs for health and wellness.
Want to make your workout speed by? With these simple tricks provided by Burbank Boot Camp, you may not realize the gym is about to close.
Pop in the Earbuds
Upload your favorite upbeat tunes and listen to them as you exercise. It doesn’t matter what genre of music it is. From hip-hop to country to pop and even classical, listen to whatever gets you moving. The beat will spur you on, the lyrics will distract you, and the sound will energize you.
Give Yourself a Pep Talk
You may sound strange to those around you, but who cares? Out loud or in your head, tell yourself you can do this! Remind yourself why you’re running at 5 a.m., the many benefits of exercise, and how good you’ll feel when you’re done. Stay positive and encourage yourself throughout your workout. If you have to, repeat a motivational phrase over and over to keep you going. Before you know it, you’ve reached the finish line.
Find a Partner
A walk on your lunch break, lifting weights at the gym, or training for a half marathon is a lot more enjoyable with a friend to talk to, spot you, and keep you accountable. Your workout will go by much faster when you’re having fun. Find a friend, coworker, or family member who has similar health goals and who you enjoy spending time with and ask them to join you in your exercise endeavors.
No one around to exercise with? Take your dog! You know Fido needs exercise just like you, so get out and take a walk. You may end up enjoying each other’s company.
Try Something New
Lap after lap in the pool or mile after mile on the treadmill can get monotonous and boring day in and day out. If your workout is stuck in a rut, fitness professionals at Burbank fitness center say it’s time to mix things up with a new workout. Find something else you enjoy and the time will speed by. A Zumba class at the gym, a hike in the woods, a tennis match with a friend. Challenging yourself to learn something different will energize and motivate you throughout your workout.
Pick Up the Pace
You know you need 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week, but did you know you could do only 75 minutes of high-intensity exercise and get the same, if not better, results? Exercise for half the time but at a more vigorous pace and you can cut your workout time in half.
Hydrate and Fuel Your Body
For the energy necessary for exertion, the body needs the right kinds of food and plenty of water. An hour before your workout, eat a snack or small meal that includes complex carbs for your muscles, lean protein for your muscles and blood flow, and fluids for hydration. A personal trainer in Burbank believes that filling up with quality fuel will provide your body the energy it needs to make it through a workout without feeling sluggish or depleted.
“If you can be mentally stimulated by the workout and find out how to get through it, it’s more fun.”—Matthew McConaughey