By David Fairlamb
When it comes to exercise, your mindset can be just as important as the workout itself.
Whether you are heading out for a daily walk, completing a strength session or pushing yourself through a hard workout, the way you approach that session can have a huge influence on how you feel and how consistently you train.
Make the most of 30 minutes
We all have days when motivation is low. You might feel tired, jaded or simply not in the mood to exercise. The key is finding ways to change your mindset and give yourself a reason to get moving.
One of the best ways to stay motivated is to keep some workouts short and sharp. After a warm-up, aim for 30 minutes of quality exercise, working hard and keeping the intensity high. You can finish feeling energised rather than spending hours exercising and still have plenty of time left to get on with your day.
Our 30 min high energy VersaClimber classes at ClimbAhub in Jesmond typify this.
Choose something you enjoy
If you are having a low-energy day, choose an activity you genuinely enjoy. Sometimes the hardest part is simply getting started. Once you are moving, your mindset can quickly change and you can begin to feel more positive.
Step outside your comfort zone
Another great way to stay motivated is to occasionally push yourself outside your normal comfort zone. Increase the pace, add a little more resistance or challenge yourself to complete something slightly faster than usual. That feeling of achievement can be a powerful motivator for your next session.
Let music lift your mood
Music can also make a difference. Put on a song that gets you moving and use it to help lift your energy when the workout starts to feel difficult. We all have that one song that can instantly change our mood.
Keep your training interesting
Variety is equally important. Combining cardio and strength training can prevent your workouts from becoming repetitive. You could even use one session specifically to concentrate on technique.
Ten strength exercises performed with good form will be safer and more effective than 30 performed incorrectly.
Finish what you start
And once you have started a workout, finish what you planned. Skipping the final few seconds of an interval or the last few repetitions of a set might seem insignificant, but consistently cutting corners can quickly become a habit. Learning to finish what you start builds discipline as well as fitness.
Use your mind to push through
Your mind can also help you through the tougher moments. When you are working aerobically, think about something positive, a happy memory, a future goal or a sporting achievement that has inspired you. Taking your mind away from the discomfort can help you keep going when your body is telling you to stop.
We all have our own ways of finding motivation. The important thing is discovering what works for you and using it when you need that extra push. It might be music, a training partner, a particular type of exercise or simply reminding yourself why you started.
David’s summing up
Sometimes we don’t need a complete change of lifestyle. We just need to change the way we approach what we are already doing.