Wellness Wednesday: How to Stay Motivated to Work Out

It's cold, it's dark, and getting out of the house to get sweaty literally sounds like the last thing you want to do. I know, I feel you. I have my days too. But with high calorie holiday gatherings around the corner, I have forced myself to be disciplined to exercise. If you need a little push to get you moving, I have put together a short list of 6 simple tips to help you stay motivated to work out this winter.

1. Establish a Workout Schedule
   It’s easy to start a workout routine (especially when January 1st rolls around). However, we all know how hard it is to stick to it, especially during the cold, dark winter months. So what can you do to make sure you are working out regularly? What I like to do is mark 30 days in advance on my calendar. Just like any other meeting on my calendar, having it written down means that I am 100% committed. No excuses. Show up.
   
   
2. Switch It Up 
   Routine does not mean boring. Doing the same ol’ thang 4 times a week, at the same place and time, in the same way, is eventually going to become b-o-r-i-n-g. That's a big problem. Boring workouts undercut your progress and ultimately waste your time. So how can you fix this problem? Simply mix it up – try a new pilates class, HIIT class, boxing class, cycling class, dance class or go on a hike with your pup! Plus, major bonus! When you try a brand new workout, you may find that you are more sore than before, sore for a longer period of time, or even that you are sore in places you didn't know existed! Let's all say in harmony, "Hello progress!" When you work out, you create microscopic tears in your muscles that actually help them grow bigger and stronger when they heal (when they heal is when you feel sore). Over time, though, your muscles become resilient to that specific exercise and they won’t tear as easily. So, mix it up and shake it up
   
   
3. Buddy Up.
   Sometimes, two truly is better than one. No matter what the workout is, even if it’s just jogging along the beach with my AirPods in my ear, I enjoy having a buddy with me. I think having someone to train alongside you can light a competitive fire under your booty, get you in the right frame of mind, and hold you accountable for giving it your 100%.
   
   
4. Mix Up Your Playlist
   Sick of hearing the same workout songs play on repeat on the radio and pop up on every single trending Spotify playlist? I hear you. I recommend songs you know, and that have a strong beat to help you keep pace in your workout. I personally love listening to 90’s and early 00’s hip hop. I can get pumped, sing along, groove to the melody. Listen to my always-updating "Power Workout" Spotify playlist here.
   
   
5. Warm Up Indoors
   Too cold or dark to get sweaty outside right away? No problem. Not only will a proper warm up keep your body safe, but will help you wake up and get pumped for getting sweaty. These are my personal favorite ways to warm up: Jump rope – 200 reps and you are guaranteed to be out of breath. Stairs  – Even if you don’t have stairs in your home/apartment, use a chair as your stepping stool. You will definitely feel your heart pumping. Remember to focus on driving from your heels. Plank – three 30 sec reps and your shoulders and core will be talking to you. Remember to traction the back of your palm toward your feet.
   
   
6. Cute Workout Clothes
   You've heard the phrase "dress for success" before, but while it's a good motto to have professionally, it 100% applies to the world of fitness as well. When you slip on your cute strappy sports bra, and flattering yoga pants, not only are you more inclined to actually want to be active, but you will feel more confident in your ability to perform, which can lead to an improved focus, motivation, and gains! Our Penelope Bikini Top and Ava Bikini Top are our highly rated all star tops that have stood up to the challenge with plenty of style, comfort, and durability. Many of your customers have worn them to their yoga classes, pilates classes, and cross fit classes!

If you have been keeping up with ur Wellness Wednesday series, you know that regular exercise is important for maintaining better sleep, good skin, and overall good health. What are some of your favorite ways to stay active? We would love to hear from you!