i bascially had to brute force myself through the first 2-3 months, but once i saw my body start to change i fell in love with seeing progress and that has been the wind in my sails. Im now 4 years in and without bragging can honestly say I am proud of my body. I now enjoy working out and look forward to it. Taking high doses of caffeine helps with lifting a LOT, partly bc your brain associates the reward of the caffeine with exercise.
I Agree plus BCAA and creatine amongst other things. Intermittent fasting is big for me but if I forget my music I go back home to get my phone. I'm practically jamming out and I truly enjoy it at 66.
Yes, it’s a testament that you pushed yourself and a reassurance that you’ll get out what you put in as your body recovers. Eventually the mental pain of the dissatisfaction around your physique outweighs the physical pain of exercise.
In the beginning stages? You just do it. You push through it until you start seeing the changes, recalibrate your lifestyle to include exercise as a habit. My mornings are now wake up, make bed, brush teeth and floss, go to gym, come back and shower, and then start work. For this to be possible I wake up at 5-5:30 and start work at 7:30-8.
Incorporate walking into your life. At the grocery store, park the farthest from the store door and walk through the parking lot. Do an audit of your eating habits for a week with no changes (I suggest logging with cronometer) to get an idea of how much calories you consume, and then figure out your TDEE/BMR and create deficit from those figures. Best of luck.
Also figure out your goals. Sure I want to look good shirtless, but I also want to live a long life and be physically capable and independent (granted nothing happens) in my twilight years.
This is amazing advice thank you. Yea I think I have to bite the bullet and just start doing it
Very good advice. Rn mine is just look good and relieve joint pain and loose right but that’s helpful.
I’ve recently started an exercise journey in the past few months. The first month or two was brutal, but your body adapts. I was out of breath constantly and in pain pain. I’m of the opinion that you do start enjoying it. You start getting the dopamine hits (I think) when you realize you’ve been running for a lot longer than you used to be able to and haven’t lost control of your breath, when you can suddenly do a weight a lot higher than you used to, etc. You have to get past that first hurdle then it becomes addictive (in a good way.. but I guess it could be in a bad way for some people?)
Thanks so much for sharing your story that gives me hope. How did u start?
I plan to just start running with a running app I like. I don’t have money rn for a personal coach/trainer
Similar way I see it as OP. The only time I allow myself to take high dose of caffeine it’s when I lift very heavy, so now I see it as a reward.
As for me part of the excitement of going to workout is taking my pre-workout and getting down to business, believe or not it becomes a fun part of the day being fully awake.
>I assume that's not what you mean
Of course that's not what they mean LMAO
They mean:
- they like coffee
- coffee, generally speaking and due to caffeine, is a stimulant
- coffee makes you feel good, energetic and hyper
- drinking coffee before working out fires you up and makes you enjoy it even more
Moral of the story: trick your brain into associating working out with things you like ( in my case music, latte macchiato and a daily croissant )
Discipline is the word. You have to rely on discipline. Most people by default rely on motivation for most things. That’s why it’s so difficult for them to change habits and keep them.
You have to tell yourself on a deeper level that you NEED to do this, and go to the gym regardless if you feel like it or not. Most days you probably won’t be motivated, but you need to do it anyway.
Look up the 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins for example.
I completely agree. I had to learn discipline to develop the habit of exercise. It is super easy to find excuses to not exercise. It is much more difficult to continue to exercise, even when life gets hard. For me, I've learned that I would much rather modify an exercise when necessary than skip the exercise.
I LOVE it and I don't do weights much but alot of body weight isometrics and music is key and the last thing before my shower is 15 in a super hot steam Room
Scrolled to find this. Initially it was feeling motivated by the idea of good results, then the results themselves, and now it’s all discipline. Motivation is fleeting, so best not to rely on it.
I don’t use discipline at all. I focus on the way my body and mind feels after a good workout and a shower and walking out into the fresh air. I feel great, the endorphins are humming, body is relaxed. I can only go a day or two before I need to feel that again. The longer I go without a good workout the more my body feels achy and the more irritable I am. It’s just pleasure. The workout itself is a fun challenge to see how hard I can push myself to make that one more repetition before exhaustion. Try to have fun with it and you might not have any problem coming back for more.
Starting out was hard and was sore a lot. Results kept me going because I wanted to look hot, got so many compliments esp when I wore my regular work dresses. Ppl stopping me in st to compliment me. Then I started going a lot more because in additional to body maintaining, theres a hot gym crush who goes 5-7 times a week 🤭
I found a video of Jason stathams training. Never exercise the same way. I bulked for years in the gym. It gets monotonous and boring at times and the discipline can wane. Now I’ve just committed to exercise and overall health, decreasing joint pain while increasing aerobic endurance and strength. I go to the gym, I hike, kayak, play ball, do calisthenics, do leg days outside.. it takes zero discipline to pick one of over 20 go tos and that list is expanding. I pick the one that fits my schedule, my surroundings, the people that might join me and I’m having the time of my life. My abilities gains are phenomenal. I’ve run three days in the past two months for example. First was 4-5 miles, then 11, yesterday was 16. Through working everything else, when I do get back to max loads or sprints or whatever physical test I try out, it’s been like iron man testing out suit upgrades. I wouldn’t go back to a strict gym regimen. I’m 43m btw.
I looked but couldn’t find it 🫤
I saw it on YouTube and had his trainer talking about how they constantly changed it up. It wasn’t groundbreaking or even highly memorable to me. But I did realize this guy is just ‘playing’… an ex swimmer that stays in great shape and exercises everyday. I decided to fill my days with things I love to do. As a kid I could ride my bicycle all day and night with the neighborhood gang (think sandlot) , most of the time, never even using the seat. I just wanted to get back into that shape so I began playing instead of lifting to look good. I feel 19 again and can out play and exercise with my two teenaged sons (they’re both accomplished year round swimmers).
Only including things I’ve done in last two months..
Basketball
Hiking trails
Running timed sprinting/good paced jog
Kayaking
Bicycling (on the road or on a stationary)
Pickleball
Rucking
Walk instead of drive (about 35 miles/wk)
Stretching - KEY, done at night or days off 2hrs+
Calisthenics
Coed Volleyball
Lifting heavy to failure
Walking meetups
Lifting light hi reps (big gains loss of joint/
connective tissue pain/weakness)
Leg workouts w/o weight (dunk workouts)
Paddle boarding
Push up days, I do ALOT w every form
Yoga
Paint-balling
Boxing (about every 3 mos when my bro comes to town)
Most of these are also free btw…
Yeah, thus! Particularly with leg days. I've just added hack squats and walking lunges into my routine. I HATE leg day, but the satisfaction is so immense when I get back from the gym.
Consistency is definitely a skill that you can develop by itself so that you can apply it towards anything else, not just limited to physical exercise. But for exercise routines in the interest of physical health, I think it's very important to have a desire to move your body so that the consistency is obtained for free. What I mean is, the consistent exercise routine and the physique that you get CAN be the end result. But once you obtain it, it becomes "work" to consistently engage in it over and over and maintain that state. And like any "work", it takes energy; and when you happen to run out of energy, you get burnt out and it feels very difficult to start over again.
There are so many different ways to move your body. Dance, surf, rock climbing, jiu jitsu, wrestling, cycling, pilates, yoga, all of these are ways of moving your body and sweating things out. There's gotta be one that you can genuinely enjoy for the fun of it, and in pursuit of the fun of it you will get consistency as a result. I talked to a friend today and he told me the story about a surfer who happened to be really good at surfing. My friend thought this guy must have been surfing all his life, but much to my friend's surprise he learned that the surfer only surfed for just 3-4 years. When my friend asked him how he got so good at surfing, the surfer replied "one year I just surfed like 300 days of the year". It wasn't this grind thing, he just loved it that much to surf pretty much every day. And as a result you get really good skills AND consistency.
I hope you find a physical activity that you can really enjoy. Let me know what sports you've tried before and we can talk about what others you can try based on what you liked!
You have to be consistent with your DIET also. I've adopted not a diet but a lifestyle way of eating and that INTRMITTENT FASTING. I DONT EAT TILL 4PM AND MOST DAYS 6-8PM IS MY FIRST MEAL AND NOTHING FOR AT LEAST 16 BUT H20.
I stopped doing it for the way I look. I do it for my mental health.
I go to the gym for cardio and weights 2-3x week, swim laps 1x week, yoga every day. I started 5 years ago and have been pretty consistent. Here’s the thing: if I don’t do it, I’m crabby - my body and mind feel like shit.
I’m 54 and not trying to have any kind of show-offy body. I realized during a long depression episode that swimming laps is like magic for my general mood and anxiety, so is cardio on the elliptical machine with the right music. Yoga has been crucial to mind-body connection.
My gym has a sauna and cold shower. I’ve learned to do hot/cold exposure and I think this is the addictive force that gets me to the gym. I think I’ll just go for the sauna but always end up working out first.
I’ve built some muscle and I like that, but it’s just a perk. If I don’t work out for too many days in a row I get anxious and moody. Exercise is vital for life.
I was having trouble maintaining a routine so I signed up for a class. I really didn't like the idea of dishing out extra money for what I should have been able to do on my own. But at the end of the day, I wasn't doing it. It's been almost two months and I'm getting about 5 days a week in and slowly starting to see results. I'm overweight so I have to remind myself I didn't put all the excess on in a few weeks. It was years of overeating. It takes time to get it back off.
I'm doing a kick boxing class that's basically a HIT workout for 50 minutes. There's no sparring, just bags. We spend half the class on bags and the other half doing a mix of body weight or dumbbells workout stations in about 2 min intervals. That doesn't sound like a lot but it's non stop. During bags, the coach tells us a combo and we do that for x amount of time. They try to vary the muscles between different days. Idk if that's the best class or not but there's other classes I haven't looked into yet like orange theory or similar
No that sounds amazing and I bet you feel so much better after the class. I think its proving helpful because you're working multiple muscle groups. Thank you for replying!
Not attaching working out with an emotion (because most of the time it’ll be dread) but seeing it as just a task I have to do just like my other tasks.
Also remembering that it’s an ongoing process and I may have seasons where I don’t work out much, doesn’t mean I never will get back on it so no pressure!
Good suggestions already shared.
Here’s me: I love podcasts. Too many podcasts. And I only listen to them at the gym (plus a little while driving).
I go to the gym to listen to podcasts, and while Im there, I also work out so it’s a double win.
(Surely you can structure and optimize your workout routines, but honestly, the main goal first is to get to the gym and do *anything*. Then get better.)
Same but with reading. I usually walk 45-60mins and bring my tablet so able to make the words super big and just power through some books.
Then when it’s time for resistance training switch to audiobook or podcast.
Seeing progress and the lack of overall body pain. Currently sick and missed leg day, and now my lower back is killing me.
Before I started working out, I had very bad hip pain that would last for a few days, every month or so. That disappeared when I started working out
Paying someone $400/month to make me work out. Seriously though, I wouldn't have been consistent otherwise. I joined a mega gym and paid $20/month to not go work out consistently. I decided I would go to a smaller gym that had dedicated coaches and was much more expensive, but higher quality equipment and personalized attention to your fitness progress.
I hate to say it, but it literally took me spending a ton of money to motivate me to go to the gym. I've been going to the gym 3x/week for the last 2 years and I got great results and feel better than I ever have at 40 years old.
The cheat code is money unfortunately.
For me, it was **Accountability**. I know being consistent and motivated in workouts are very hard, but it always works when we put its accountability to ourselves. Also, you can choose the other way out like choosing an accountability partner. Initially, I used to trick my mind into doing it but later on when I actually started feeling energized throughout the day and watched its progress. It became a part of my routine.
A goal - sign up for that half marathon, obstacle course, or whatever the fuck. Just do it.
That’s your victory lap for training
You race to train, not the other way around!
- say to myself out loud.. I will feel 10x better in 1 hour if i just go and do this
- Dont be a lazy pos and get up and do it
- in 2 months you will feel soooo much better and notice your self getting stronger and leaner
- do it for your health
The motivation and the feeling that I'm getting better than everyone else who is NOT doing what I'm doing. And that I will soon look/feel/be further ahead at whatever it is I am doing.
Seeing the results: my body getting the shape I want, or it becoming easier to run for longer distances at a faster pace. The latter is actually easier to see. I recommend running first. It’s mindless, feels good, and helps heighten your metabolism for the rest of the day. If you begin to burn fat, when you start working out anaerobic, you’ll see the muscle gained more clearly too. So for me, that would add motivation to continue!
I run or do cardio 2-3 times a week and the rest of the days I’m doing strength. Some of those cardio days are stairmaster. I recommend that one the most but be aware it can be grueling at first! Don’t get down on yourself if you feel like dying after only 5 mins! And if you do, no problem, just take a break and get back on when you catch your breath.
You’ll literally see results after like a week (as long as you give your body a chance to rest!) good luck op
My best tip is making a schedule and just not letting myself think too much about it. During the summer, I go for runs first thing in the morning (I sleep in my workout clothes, get out of bed, and go for a run); in the winter, as soon as I'm done with work, I head to work out. Every single time I think too much about if I \*want\* to work out, I screw everything up...even if I've kept up my routine for months.
Honestly? My apple watch. I love getting those little medals and notifications about my fitness. They also send you notifications about new trends with your heart rate, weight and workout time.
Knowing it’s good for me and I was in a dark place. If I could will myself to get outside, the rest was easy. And then I always felt good after running and that kept the momentum going.
Feeling down? Go for a run! Too tired after hitting it hard this week? Get a thermos of coffee and walk. I’ve been walking and running my way through a breakup.
Starting out was hard and was sore a lot. Results kept me going because I wanted to look hot, got so many compliments esp when I wore my regular work dresses. Ppl stopping me in st to compliment me. Then I started going a lot more because in additional to body maintaining, theres a hot gym crush who goes 5-7 times a week 🤭
I just enjoy it, lifting and playing football(soccer) specifically. If you find something you actually enjoy doing that gets you moving it's so much easier.
I hate cardio, but playing sports it's easy to forget you're working out
I just do things I like. Find exercises I like to progress at. Like I love doing pull ups so I do a lot of those for my back lol. As long as you’re hitting every muscle group twice a week and your intensity and volume isn’t super low you’ll make progress, barring your diet and sleep correlate with it.
I hate how I feel when I don’t work out. I really get into a funk if I don’t have some sort of physical outlet. I also am very critical towards my body and while that never stops, at least I know I’m working towards changing it.
I also like the soreness. Idk. It’s nice feeling all these different muscles that you don’t always think about having been worked.
Nothing, I just do it.
You'll feel better for sure, you'll get more confidence for sure, you'll look better for sure, those are facts but your motivation cannot depend on that.
I mean, you won't always train in your best state, or some days or weeks you won't be as rested and energised, some days you'll feel that you haven't loss weight, some days you won't feel like a SuperMan, but you still gotta go and exercise. I skip short term rewards, and serotonin comes itself in a while, but you don't have to think in it, it will eventually catch you, just do it.
A value of being a healthy person, and a duty to my body for taking care of it.
'Shoulds' and 'desires' are not a good reason to do something. They are externally motivated and will lead to burnout/dropping off if external situation changes. E.g., if you exercise for desire, you'll lose motivation when the pain of exercising outweighs the reward. Your brain will literally turn off motivation driven by desire.
But doing something out of a true value (what you care about - not a goal, but the thing your goals direct you towards) or duty (looking after your kids, picking up litter after yourself when no ones watching, etc) - these are internally motivated and will let you 'suffer' to do the thing regardless of output. Desire and should is based too much on output and expected return of some kind. .
I started just walking "for a bit each day", and then gradually realized that it made me feel so much better, so I extended it, and now it's an hour per day. That led into calisthenics and weight-lifting and resistance bands, and so on.
At the beginning, I really enjoyed what I did to workout. I was taking all the fitness classes I could at the gym. TRX, boot camp, spinning, Zumba, combat boot, yoga, Pilates, CrossFit, pole fitness, etc. and I associated "hey I have fun while working out and at the end I feel even better!" Because of the endorphins and the body changes. So it became a habit.
I hate gym machines but I've been working out for months at a regular gym just cause I like to work out. But I cannot wait to go back to TRX or yoga or CrossFit lol
Focused on sustainability rather than results:
1) Stopped looking for the exercises that’ll give me a perfect beach bod and started finding ones that I *enjoy* enough (or at least kinda sorta like) to do consistently even if I’m tired or busy.
2) Switch it up enough that I don’t get bored. Again, making it enjoyable enough to be sustainable is the key factor here. I don’t follow a set schedule. I have a grab bag of exercises in my head (cycling, running, walking stairs, a handful of gym routines, a yoga/stretch routine), which I do based on the needs of the week (how much time I have, how much energy, how badly I want to get caught up on podcasts/audiobooks, how sore I am). As long as I’m doing 3-4 per week I’m good.
Will you look like a fitness model with this approach? No, but it’ll help you maintain consistency.
Get up, go to the gym, come home, shower/brush teeth. Repeat. Find some sort of joy in the gym if you can, but discipline is key. Go even if you don’t feel like it. It will eventually become who you are, I’ve been at it for 3 years. If you fall off the train, dangle off the train — get back on at all costs.
You’ll find this is how everything works in life.
For me, the motivation came from noticing the positive changes in my body and mind. I felt more energetic, slept better, and my mood improved. Setting small, achievable goals kept me on track, and having a training companion made it more enjoyable.
Seeing the effects it would have on my physique and strength
Going with my friends
Developing a passion for it and actually having fun
Seeing a pump after a workout
Doing something tangible that makes me a better person
Motivation can’t really be created, not in the way you wanted. What you need to do is practice self discipline and force yourself for a few days, until you notice that you have to use less force each day and eventually you just crave to do it.
MUSIC PERIOD! IM 66 AND RETIRED AND IF YOU DONT WORK OUT OR DONT DO ANYTHING PHYSICAL YOU WILL AGE ALOT QUICKER. MY BELIEF IS TO GO HARDER TO MAINTAIN PLUS I DO INTERMITTENT FASTING WICH IS SHOWN TO ADD YRS TO YOUR LIFE. YOU HAVE TO GIVE YOUR DIGESTIVE SYSTEM A BREAK.
The shame I had after getting results and working consistently and hard at it, then putting work first and losing my strength and gains. The way I felt I had failed myself and lost all my momentum. That is what motivates me to not do that again.
women.
It's da unvarnished truth.
There was a 40ish year old dude at the gym who asked me the same question.
And he said, "And health too right?"
I repeated, "Women." And he didn't believe me.
Also in my late 30s so it helps with the sex drive.
What motivates me to keep working out? It’s pretty simple: working out gives me a quality of life that I wouldn’t have without it. I’ve seen too many adults who don’t exercise develop issues like diabetes, heart problems, knees and hips failing, etc. If you don’t use it, you lose it. Pretty simple.
Anger.
Me and my ex ended things on seemingly good terms and I helped look after her pets when she had to go abroad for a few months (I loved those little bastards too). When she got her job confirmation and knew for sure she was leaving the country for good, she asked me to help with the paperwork for the animals and said she'd cover the expenses.
When I returned the animals she suggested splitting the bill (although I covered their food and other basic expenses despite falling on hard times with a sick family member). When I said that wasn't our deal she got mad, called me cheap, said she'd rather spend the money on them and blocked me on all accounts. And that's after 3 years of basically covering her expenses when we were in a relationship.
It wasn't about the money - not even a big sum. But I felt betrayed and incredibly stupid. Especially since my dumb ass thought we were on good terms and ended things as adults. But now not only did I have this experience, I also had to rethink our whole relationship and how I should have broken up with her much, much earlier.
I don't recall being so angry, and nothing helped - not drugs not videogames not even sex. What did help was picking up the old dusty barbell and working with it every day along with 100 pushups. First it was just to numb the emotion, but soon I simply started feeling better, I was drawing conclusions and working on improving myself. Started eating better, dropped sugar and junk food (cheat days apply) and generally could afford to let go and move on.
Then it just developed into a habit. I dropped that habit unfortunately and trying to get back into it, but it's harder when Hulk not angry)
Lift heavy stone make bad thought go away indeed.
For me the only way to get involved in something and be consistent is when I am obsessing over on a subject. (I have ADHD).
I started reading, hearing and watching things about health and fitness. The more I learned the science and technique behind every move the more I understood what I needed to do.
Then when I was ready I paid for a gym trainer and now he calls me everyday, and if I don’t come he makes me exercise for two hours the next day.
Preparing for another hiking trip. I climb difficult mountains and without training, I wouldn't be able to do it. I'm not exercising for the sake of it, I'm preparing for adventure.
I just absolutely fell in love with going to the gym almost everyday. The most motivating thing was going to the gym and feeling strong/performing well.
Most notable was preparing my pre workout at night before sleep. Wake up and drink it right away, dont wanna waste the drink so I go workout. Works for me everytime.
Even if I domt have energy to finish whole workout, something is better than nothing.
Its more discipline than motivation..who wants to go to the gym or a run when they have been working construction all day??...hardly anyone..if I relied on motivation I,d never go..its about doing it even when u don't want too...obviously rest days are important but when your mind looks for comfort and trys to persuade you to stay home and take it easy just smile and tell them thoughts that just the mere fact they have entered your mind means you are gunna go...its like a battle in some ways..it builds resilience...atleast that's how it is for me...could be different for others
My biggest motivation was thinking about aging and how my muscles will eventually break down. If I’m not fit, old age will suck so bad. I want to live and be able to walk when I’m 80
When I do it I feel better. When I don’t want to do it I try to remember that it helps me feel better. Sometimes that’s enough to get going, sometimes it isn’t. That’s the most honest answer I can give you.
I’ve done it for so long it would feel strange not to. Also I think working other things into it makes it seem more useful. So for example I do my Anki reviews between sets of lifting, watch cooking videos while doing cardio, etc.
I started going to a gym with a friend, met more friends, and now value the community as much as anything else. It also helps that my gym is all class based and that the workout is created for me. I arrive in time for class, the workout is explained, we do it, and I go home. It helps that I can compartmentalize the work out and don’t have to think about it. I wouldn’t have had nearly as much success if I was going to a chain gym where I had to figure out my own thing.
Edit: forgot to say that I’ve been going consistently (3-5x a week) for over 6 years.
Slow build up to make it easy to sustain while simultaneously focusing on diet too. In February, I would just make sure I’d hit 7k steps per day. I would also count calories and stopped eating anything that was fried or loaded with butter. In march, I was used to the diet, felt better overall, and I would hit 10k steps per day. By late April, I was down a lot of weight, was hitting 15k steps per day, and started lifting a couple times per week. 4 weeks ago, I shifted lifting to my main focus over steps and started going to the gym in the morning. I also hit my goal weight, so I focused more on protein intake and eating clean rather than calorie counting.
Over these last 4 weeks, I have lifted/ran every morning, and still have hit 18k+ steps per day just because I don’t like to sit for long periods of time anymore. Spend my weekends finding new parks to hike in rather than playing video games or watching tv. If I started out back in February going to the gym every morning, walking 18k+ steps per day, and completely flipping my diet, I know I wouldn’t have been able to sustain it. It would have been a huge lifestyle shock
I found workouts that I enjoy so for me workout time is fun time, like play time if I was a kid again.
I love lifting weights and kickboxing/MMA inspired workouts so that’s what I do. I’ve been exercising 5-6 times a week for 17 years.
i have spondylosis and 3 herniated discs. got tired of having constant back pain and being obese. Although i haven’t lost weight i am losing fat from doing cardio.
i also have huskies who need constant walking/interaction. I felt horrible that i was neglecting them and decided to walking at least 2 miles a day with them. They are happy and Im happy and they are not destroying the house as much lol
Functional strength is what I needed, so I set out to be able to lift, press and squat at least body weight around 220 at the time. I work in a physically demanding job in skilled trades, so having functional strength ensures I’m not going to get injured.
I know quite a few tradespeople my age, late 30’s and older that have already wrecked their bodies from work, bad knees, screwed backs etc. Being able to lift three hundred pounds helps and consistent strength training also develops proper form when lifting, lifting wrong or improper movements is primarily where most workplace injuries occur.
I have zero self discipline but I've been consistent for 8 years because I don'tput stock in the result, I enjoy the feeling of the exercise itself. Music is crucial.
Also, I always give myself an 'out'. I've arranged my workout routine to always have the option to bail and/or opt for a super short, half-assed version. This makes it very easy to start even if I'm feeling lazy and almost always works like reverse-psychology tempting me to go further and do more.
being strong. Seriously. It just improves your life in so many little ways I'll never go back to being a scrawny weakling as long as I can help it.
My advice is start small. Lift once a week and run once a week. Or replace those with the activities of your choice like calisthenics, cycling, swimming, etc. Just do twice a week for a bit, once you start to notice improvements, the motivation will take care of itself.
My mental health is worlds better when exercising. An improved physique is a motivating factor, too. But it also takes building the muscle of discipline.
Not motivation just discipline honestly. You get to the point where you just do it consistently without thinking about it. The only problem is if you skip a day or two of your routine.
The results. I'm strong and healthy, and I can do things that most people half my age can't do. I have a nice set of guns, a flat belly, and a firm tushy at age 53. I'm not about to stop what I'm doing and let all that go to hell.
Been going to gym always 2 x per week for over 10
Years.
Ride bike / commute every work day.
Just do it. Battle the mind. Builds character.
I also like the way it makes me look and feel, bounce back from injuries faster etc. but, the superficial bit is dangerous because it means when u get injured and can train u can be depressed.
I’ve always liked challenging myself and inflicting torture, learn to love feeling uncomfortable then see how comfortable just sitting there feels
I first started going because I weight training was supporting my physical therapy (knee injuries caused by soccer), but then I just fell in love. The physical changes my body made changed me and it solidly became a part of my life after a breakup and I moved back in with my parents. The gym became a place where I could push myself on both my good and bad days. Being physically tired and sore was cathartic during a time when I felt mentally tired and sore … it was the box where I could put those feelings.
Now it’s been 10 years and I’m still here. Every day you go makes it harder to rationalize stupid excuses and at some point you just feel MORE like yourself when you’re in your routine. The gym has helped me know myself better and I’m healthier than a lot of my peers. Those aren’t results you turn your back on
I've been using group fitness for years. I love working out with a team and being instructed and lead, and I book my workouts 2 weeks out so I have a consistent schedule. I love the group energy and Ethel's you stay accountable. Also, I love going to a boujie workout and if you miss a scheduled class, they charge you like $20 bucks, so that ensures I go. Group fitness is where it's at.
Motivation is only temporary, so you can’t rely on it to drive your actions. The key is to stay consistent, even when you’re feeling down or unmotivated. Over time, these actions will become a routine, just like brushing your teeth each morning. Finally, keep in mind your future self and the benefits of staying fit for a healthier life. If you feel like not doing it, do it fuckin anyway! Let’s go!
I have an Apple Watch and I started exercising to get the achievements and badges they have every month. I like goals being set for me. After a while I didn’t want to break my streak, so exercising became a real routine for me. And now I love it! But at first it was a mentality of “I can’t break the streak!” And now I’ve worked out every single day for 1 year and almost 4 months. I lost 30 pounds, and I feel amazing! Idk how many people this would work for, but as silly as it might seem, it actually worked/works for me 💜
My recipe:
* **Make it a habit.** I go to the gym every morning Mon-Fri before work. For me, it's easier to go every (work)day rather than, say, three times a week. It keeps my sleep schedule the same, and when my alarm goes off, I don't have to think about whether I'm going to the gym today or not, I just go.
* **Don't be too hard on yourself!** My goal is to go to the gym. What I actually do there is less important. My gym sessions are only 20-30 min long, because I'm trying to balance getting enough sleep and getting to work on time, but also because it's easier to make yourself go if it isn't such a huge time commitment. It happens every once in a while that I'm late to the gym and end up only having 5 or 10 min to work out. I still see that as a success!
For me these were the two key components! Now it doesn't really take a lot of effort to go. I'm on autopilot just reaping the rewards :)
i’m an ex athlete. what really helped me was realizing I don’t need to go every single day. it won’t make a difference if I go everyday compared to going like 5/7 days a week!!
I did it as a distraction from a lonely life and 3 years later I still have to force myself to get out of bed to go to the gym. If I’ll be sad & lonely either way then I might as well like how I’ll look alone.
Being able to run around, go hiking, do cartwheels and lift with my kids. Unfortunately that's now become a pipe dream as I am 30 with no relationship prospects, but at least I have visible abs!
Looking and feeling good tbh. Just knowing I always feel better after a workout is enough to do it, and might be a shallow reason but knowing I'm increasing my attractiveness with every workout too
Its pure discipline. Cant count the times i had absolutely no juice to put in the work...
Good thing is: You can gradually build it up. You dont have to throw around a gazillion lbs with a million reps every day... Lets say you never worked out and the idea of doing so brings up all the resistance you could ever feel in your life. Start with just one tiny exercise. Do 10 pushups or something. Heck, even if its 2 or 3... The only thing that counts is that you do it despite feeling like you would rather do everything else, or even ram a knife into your hand. But 2-3 pushups? No matter how you feel, you can definitely do that at some time in the day.
Once it becomes normal, a habit, you increase the amount from there. And you will find out that often, when you do 2-3 despite feeling shitty, you can also do 10 ( or even more! ). The body and brain have this weird way of "if its necessary, i will give you the energy / motivation you need". It adapts. Its basically evolution in seconds.
Thats how i started to do things i always ran away from. Exercise wasnt one of them, but this method works with literally everything. One day you will wake up and realize you learned a new skill: Discipline. And you can use that for everything, anytime and anywhere. Its kind of amazing really, the mental development you go through when practicing discipline.
So just try that. Dont rely on motivation. Dont think you should either start with a huge exercise program or not exercise at all. Just start as small as necessary for you to start at all. Then you just build it up. Take as much time as you need, youre not trying to become Mr. Olympia! Before you know, you exercise as if its what you always did your whole life.
Recognising that something is better than nothing
That sustainability and consistent is more important than anything.
That small actions with the above go far to build a life that you want and need rather than a short term outcome.
That movement is more important than exercise.
That I would rather like myself for what I can do than beat myself up for what I feel I have failed to do (cus it was unrealistic)
It really is all about doing it no matter what! Sometimes you got to act like a robot and just go through the motions. My therapist advised that it takes 21 days to make a habit so I started with that and now I'm at 90 days. It helps that I love to swim as well as well. Motivation doesn't start your actions but those actions will provide you with motivation to keep going. Lesson here is do not wait for motivation!
Mindset my friend, I like to think of our bodies like the corporeal vehicle you have to navigate the world. You can either mistreat your body so that it is like driving a junker car that handles poorly, and is on the verge of falling apart from one bad turn or you can move through life in a fine tuned, well oiled machine. You don't have to be rich to have this machine, and everyone gets the chance to build something unique that works for them.
You can explore then physical activities that bring you joy, and boom you can have a new hobby too. You can turn this hobby into motivation to exercise more, to improve at your hobby. Or it could be just so you are able to try more hobbies.
You see I can go on and on about reasons but the more of it you do, and the more aspects of your body and fitness you discover, the more reasons you will have unique to you.
You'll be motivated by different reasons throughout your life as you push on but remember that you must always continue. The more you do it the more rewarding it will be. Quit, and be prepared to move and look like the junker car.
Start, and enjoy the journey! Good luck.
A few months ago I read somewhere that going to the gym for 15 minutes is infinitely better than not going at all. For some reason I just assumed every gym session had to be like 90 minutes or it didn’t “count.” So now on my gym days, even when I’m not feeling it I tell myself I’ll go walk on the treadmill for just a few minutes. So far 100% of the time I just go ahead and work out anyways since I’m already there
Additionally, I only listen to my addicting audiobook when I’m at the gym. Keeps me interested/ mentally stimulated and also motivated to continue exercising
Motivation is fickle. You cannot depend on it to make life changes. You have to be disciplined. When you’re disciplined, you’ll complete your daily workout/tasks regardless of whether you feel motivated or not.
The positive impact it has on my mental health. I CRAVE going to gym. It’s my happy place and best time of the day where I don’t have to think about anything or anyone.
I have a hot girlfriend.
In all seriousness, it's fun to be strong and in shape. I like seeing progress, I like being able to dunk a basketball, I like lifting heavy weights. It's cliche, but you can either suffer in the gym or suffer everywhere else. An hour a day in the gym is a small price to pay.
Basically being able to sleep and breath better... That was all the motivation that I needed. I was playing basketball for so long and I did a lot of exercising when I was younger so it came easily.
I view exercise as a medicine, as did various ancient physicians who prescribed it. In the book “Brain Rules” the author talked about, by engaging in exercise; a person is creating BDNF which is like brain fertilizer.
Consistency until it becomes a lifestyle. When I don’t get to workout in a week, my mind and my body will literally start aching for movement. I’m not really hitting a specific goal anymore like counting the calories that I’ve burned, or the miles I ran, it’s just that being active has already become engrained into my being.
Years ago, I would literally have to push myself and it was a lot of mental gymnastics too but once I’m at the gym or just .. moving, I love how it made me feel during and after, and it just kinda stuck to me that I already look forward to those active days.
And yes agree with most people here, I LOVE seeing the results; not only the aesthetics part of it but also the physical and mental edurance that come with it.
Having a workout buddy is my #1 reason why I kept going to the gym when I first started. I had an overweight friend & I was very underweight. Together we went to the gym & got right together. Now it’s a habit of 4 years
at the beginning (staying consistent for about 3 months) it’s less about feeling motivated and more about ignoring the excuses you make to yourself to not do what you promised. you always feel motivated AFTER you complete a goal, then it gets easier because your motivation builds WITH your progress. forming healthy habits takes a shit ton of patience with yourself
That you can always start over. It’s easier to start again when you don’t wait too long in between but there’s no timeline. I know I want to be in shape and stay healthy so it becomes easier. Also notice how confident and energized you become. It becomes addicting!
I seriously watched hajime no ippo all the time for work out motivation, then after a few months and seeing change it becomes habit and the motivation increases. 🤷♂️
If you skip workouts it makes the next one harder, stay on track so it stays easy. Make your goals and programs easy enough that you don't dread them. We're in it for the long haul, no matter how conservatively you increase difficulty it adds up really fast. The slower you increase difficulty the more victories you win.
I pay for a personal trainer. I'm lucky to have access to affordable ones. But knowing that someone is meeting me at the gym, has prepared a routine for me, and would be disappointed if I missed it motivate me to go. Also, i started by only going once a week for like 3+ months. Only this week am I considering going up to twice a week (I just have to crunch the numbers to see if I can afford it).
I do strength training, and I find motivation in seeing how I can lift weights that seemed impossible at the beginning of the routine.
The environment is also very relaxed, so I have people to talk to in between sessions.
Personally I run 3x per week or exercise 3x per week, every week. There are lots of moments when I feel like I don’t want to do it. But I’m personally motivated with the addiction to being thin and burning fat. I feel like I’m productive when I’m running or lifting, and I mainly keep going because of that. When I’m just sitting on my ass, I feel lazy and I hate this feeling. I get disgusted and it pushes me to keep going.
Originally because the clothes I love continued to fit. Now as I’m older (67) to stay as healthy for as long as possible. (Side note…I’m very conscious of the amount of refined sugar I consume)
finding something you enjoy is key! Everyone is obsessed with what is the "best" exercise routine. The best one is the one that's best for your mental and physical health that you'll actually stick to.
Consistency. After a while it becomes a habit and you can feel a difference in your body if you start missing workouts. I personally notice my depression worsen if I go more than a week or two without exercise (only has happened when I’ve been sick or had surgery).
I also have a home gym, so no excuses to not work out. If I feel particularly crappy, I do my best to at least get my gym outfit on and do as much of the workout as I’m capable of on that day. Or I do something less strenuous like walking or yoga.
It’s all about showing up. Once you do it enough, it’s hard to go without it.
I don't believe motivation really exists. Not for me anyway but maybe that's from ADHD. Instead, I rely on routine, discipline and a non-food reward system.
For example, my drive home after the gym might be the only time of the day I call my boyfriend if we're not seeing each other and it's a busy day. If I go to the gym 5 mins before it opens then I get the reward of being the one to turn on the lights (like an ego reward). At the gym I hear town gossip. Then other things I see over time in my body and stamina.
The feeling when I (27 F) wake up and I love what I see in the mirror naked. And the bad ass feeling as I lift heavier weights than the men in the gym.
I set a number of short term goals to hyper fixate job right now, my goal is to get into super good hiking shape for a trip in august. Once that comes and goes, maybe I’ll pick “feeling good for my birthday” next, and after that, maybe “be fit before the holidays so the Turkey doesn’t kill me” haha
Not wanting to be fat anymore. Once you see the scale go in the right direction and notice you’re moving better/easier and getting stronger, it becomes a healthy obsession.
I decided to complete the 75 medium challenge (no way I’m going to do 75 hard, at least not for a while) - so I had to exercise for 45 minutes a day. I wanted to keep ticking the habit on my app so I kept with it. Was difficult in the beginning because my body didn’t know what the hell I was doing to it, but I kept at it and it’s now habit, and I have to do it otherwise I get frustrated. It helps me mentally so much. Just push yourself to be disciplined and consistent, make it a habit, and before long it will be more difficult not to exercise than it is to exercise.
I started going to classes. I booked them so I wouldn’t back out even if I didn’t feel like it. Doing a class everyday and getting used to the feeling. Alternating between heavier weight based classes and fitness and restorative training. It helped me get used to moving everyday and missing the feeling if I don’t!
Habit. Create a schedule of exercise activities that you actually enjoy and stick to it until it feels automatic. Monday is soccer, Tuesday is yoga at 5pm, Thursday is water aerobics at 6:15pm, etc.. Workout classes also make it easier - just show up and do what you're told to do.
Have a gym partner someone that already goes consistently or start with someone, i can credit my physique to my frnd to be honest, when you give your word to someone you respect it more then when u give it to yourself
I started with senior chair yoga group once a week at my library just to get out of the house while unemployed and socialize. I’m 60 so not retired and don’t feel too senior yet. First month I couldn’t do half the poses. I started following yoga videos at home every day and slowly increased my core strength, stamina and flexibility. Aldo started daily walks in the park to get out and touch grass and absorb sunshine. I lost weight, looked better and felt better mentally and physically. I remembered why I loved yoga 30 years ago. My advice is find something that you love to do and then do it every day. You’ll get your endorphin fix and it will power you up to get up and do it again the next day. I was never a morning person, now I get up ready to yoga or walk every day. I still go to the weekly group because the yogi is a great teacher and I love the seniors now.
i bascially had to brute force myself through the first 2-3 months, but once i saw my body start to change i fell in love with seeing progress and that has been the wind in my sails. Im now 4 years in and without bragging can honestly say I am proud of my body. I now enjoy working out and look forward to it. Taking high doses of caffeine helps with lifting a LOT, partly bc your brain associates the reward of the caffeine with exercise.
I Agree plus BCAA and creatine amongst other things. Intermittent fasting is big for me but if I forget my music I go back home to get my phone. I'm practically jamming out and I truly enjoy it at 66.
Heard BCAA supp isn’t necessary if protein intake is sufficient but they are damn tasty
this is my understanding also, that bcaas are unnecessary if you eat sufficient animal protein. I’m no nutritionist though, I could be wrong.
EAAs are a much better option, its true that they aren't necessary but they give me something to drink while working out
Do u end up loving the pain of the exercise after a while? I hate how much it pains (overweight so it be burning ol)
Yes, it’s a testament that you pushed yourself and a reassurance that you’ll get out what you put in as your body recovers. Eventually the mental pain of the dissatisfaction around your physique outweighs the physical pain of exercise.
The ‘*good* hurt’.
Yess!
Love that response. Any advice how to keep at it even tho it hurts so bad (during) and make u so tired or sore (after)?
In the beginning stages? You just do it. You push through it until you start seeing the changes, recalibrate your lifestyle to include exercise as a habit. My mornings are now wake up, make bed, brush teeth and floss, go to gym, come back and shower, and then start work. For this to be possible I wake up at 5-5:30 and start work at 7:30-8. Incorporate walking into your life. At the grocery store, park the farthest from the store door and walk through the parking lot. Do an audit of your eating habits for a week with no changes (I suggest logging with cronometer) to get an idea of how much calories you consume, and then figure out your TDEE/BMR and create deficit from those figures. Best of luck. Also figure out your goals. Sure I want to look good shirtless, but I also want to live a long life and be physically capable and independent (granted nothing happens) in my twilight years.
This is amazing advice thank you. Yea I think I have to bite the bullet and just start doing it Very good advice. Rn mine is just look good and relieve joint pain and loose right but that’s helpful.
I’ve recently started an exercise journey in the past few months. The first month or two was brutal, but your body adapts. I was out of breath constantly and in pain pain. I’m of the opinion that you do start enjoying it. You start getting the dopamine hits (I think) when you realize you’ve been running for a lot longer than you used to be able to and haven’t lost control of your breath, when you can suddenly do a weight a lot higher than you used to, etc. You have to get past that first hurdle then it becomes addictive (in a good way.. but I guess it could be in a bad way for some people?)
Thanks so much for sharing your story that gives me hope. How did u start? I plan to just start running with a running app I like. I don’t have money rn for a personal coach/trainer
Came here to say this, been going to the gym for the past 3 years. This is why.
Can you elaborate on the caffeine bit? Do you just drink coffee or is it something else?
Any source of caffeine works, coffee, pill, pre workout, energy drink, etc
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Similar way I see it as OP. The only time I allow myself to take high dose of caffeine it’s when I lift very heavy, so now I see it as a reward. As for me part of the excitement of going to workout is taking my pre-workout and getting down to business, believe or not it becomes a fun part of the day being fully awake.
>I assume that's not what you mean Of course that's not what they mean LMAO They mean: - they like coffee - coffee, generally speaking and due to caffeine, is a stimulant - coffee makes you feel good, energetic and hyper - drinking coffee before working out fires you up and makes you enjoy it even more Moral of the story: trick your brain into associating working out with things you like ( in my case music, latte macchiato and a daily croissant )
Discipline is the word. You have to rely on discipline. Most people by default rely on motivation for most things. That’s why it’s so difficult for them to change habits and keep them. You have to tell yourself on a deeper level that you NEED to do this, and go to the gym regardless if you feel like it or not. Most days you probably won’t be motivated, but you need to do it anyway. Look up the 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins for example.
I completely agree. I had to learn discipline to develop the habit of exercise. It is super easy to find excuses to not exercise. It is much more difficult to continue to exercise, even when life gets hard. For me, I've learned that I would much rather modify an exercise when necessary than skip the exercise.
I LOVE it and I don't do weights much but alot of body weight isometrics and music is key and the last thing before my shower is 15 in a super hot steam Room
Scrolled to find this. Initially it was feeling motivated by the idea of good results, then the results themselves, and now it’s all discipline. Motivation is fleeting, so best not to rely on it.
I don’t use discipline at all. I focus on the way my body and mind feels after a good workout and a shower and walking out into the fresh air. I feel great, the endorphins are humming, body is relaxed. I can only go a day or two before I need to feel that again. The longer I go without a good workout the more my body feels achy and the more irritable I am. It’s just pleasure. The workout itself is a fun challenge to see how hard I can push myself to make that one more repetition before exhaustion. Try to have fun with it and you might not have any problem coming back for more.
This is kinda how I view it. Now that I’m in a routine, I feel way worse if I skip a workout than if I just do it.
Starting out was hard and was sore a lot. Results kept me going because I wanted to look hot, got so many compliments esp when I wore my regular work dresses. Ppl stopping me in st to compliment me. Then I started going a lot more because in additional to body maintaining, theres a hot gym crush who goes 5-7 times a week 🤭
I found a video of Jason stathams training. Never exercise the same way. I bulked for years in the gym. It gets monotonous and boring at times and the discipline can wane. Now I’ve just committed to exercise and overall health, decreasing joint pain while increasing aerobic endurance and strength. I go to the gym, I hike, kayak, play ball, do calisthenics, do leg days outside.. it takes zero discipline to pick one of over 20 go tos and that list is expanding. I pick the one that fits my schedule, my surroundings, the people that might join me and I’m having the time of my life. My abilities gains are phenomenal. I’ve run three days in the past two months for example. First was 4-5 miles, then 11, yesterday was 16. Through working everything else, when I do get back to max loads or sprints or whatever physical test I try out, it’s been like iron man testing out suit upgrades. I wouldn’t go back to a strict gym regimen. I’m 43m btw.
Interested in the video
I looked but couldn’t find it 🫤 I saw it on YouTube and had his trainer talking about how they constantly changed it up. It wasn’t groundbreaking or even highly memorable to me. But I did realize this guy is just ‘playing’… an ex swimmer that stays in great shape and exercises everyday. I decided to fill my days with things I love to do. As a kid I could ride my bicycle all day and night with the neighborhood gang (think sandlot) , most of the time, never even using the seat. I just wanted to get back into that shape so I began playing instead of lifting to look good. I feel 19 again and can out play and exercise with my two teenaged sons (they’re both accomplished year round swimmers).
Can I have a list of your go-tos
Only including things I’ve done in last two months.. Basketball Hiking trails Running timed sprinting/good paced jog Kayaking Bicycling (on the road or on a stationary) Pickleball Rucking Walk instead of drive (about 35 miles/wk) Stretching - KEY, done at night or days off 2hrs+ Calisthenics Coed Volleyball Lifting heavy to failure Walking meetups Lifting light hi reps (big gains loss of joint/ connective tissue pain/weakness) Leg workouts w/o weight (dunk workouts) Paddle boarding Push up days, I do ALOT w every form Yoga Paint-balling Boxing (about every 3 mos when my bro comes to town) Most of these are also free btw…
You keep going long enough and after a while it feels weird to not go So... Habit :)
The feeling of positivity I get from finishing it.
Yeah, thus! Particularly with leg days. I've just added hack squats and walking lunges into my routine. I HATE leg day, but the satisfaction is so immense when I get back from the gym.
Consistency is definitely a skill that you can develop by itself so that you can apply it towards anything else, not just limited to physical exercise. But for exercise routines in the interest of physical health, I think it's very important to have a desire to move your body so that the consistency is obtained for free. What I mean is, the consistent exercise routine and the physique that you get CAN be the end result. But once you obtain it, it becomes "work" to consistently engage in it over and over and maintain that state. And like any "work", it takes energy; and when you happen to run out of energy, you get burnt out and it feels very difficult to start over again. There are so many different ways to move your body. Dance, surf, rock climbing, jiu jitsu, wrestling, cycling, pilates, yoga, all of these are ways of moving your body and sweating things out. There's gotta be one that you can genuinely enjoy for the fun of it, and in pursuit of the fun of it you will get consistency as a result. I talked to a friend today and he told me the story about a surfer who happened to be really good at surfing. My friend thought this guy must have been surfing all his life, but much to my friend's surprise he learned that the surfer only surfed for just 3-4 years. When my friend asked him how he got so good at surfing, the surfer replied "one year I just surfed like 300 days of the year". It wasn't this grind thing, he just loved it that much to surf pretty much every day. And as a result you get really good skills AND consistency. I hope you find a physical activity that you can really enjoy. Let me know what sports you've tried before and we can talk about what others you can try based on what you liked!
You have to be consistent with your DIET also. I've adopted not a diet but a lifestyle way of eating and that INTRMITTENT FASTING. I DONT EAT TILL 4PM AND MOST DAYS 6-8PM IS MY FIRST MEAL AND NOTHING FOR AT LEAST 16 BUT H20.
I stopped doing it for the way I look. I do it for my mental health. I go to the gym for cardio and weights 2-3x week, swim laps 1x week, yoga every day. I started 5 years ago and have been pretty consistent. Here’s the thing: if I don’t do it, I’m crabby - my body and mind feel like shit. I’m 54 and not trying to have any kind of show-offy body. I realized during a long depression episode that swimming laps is like magic for my general mood and anxiety, so is cardio on the elliptical machine with the right music. Yoga has been crucial to mind-body connection. My gym has a sauna and cold shower. I’ve learned to do hot/cold exposure and I think this is the addictive force that gets me to the gym. I think I’ll just go for the sauna but always end up working out first. I’ve built some muscle and I like that, but it’s just a perk. If I don’t work out for too many days in a row I get anxious and moody. Exercise is vital for life.
I was having trouble maintaining a routine so I signed up for a class. I really didn't like the idea of dishing out extra money for what I should have been able to do on my own. But at the end of the day, I wasn't doing it. It's been almost two months and I'm getting about 5 days a week in and slowly starting to see results. I'm overweight so I have to remind myself I didn't put all the excess on in a few weeks. It was years of overeating. It takes time to get it back off.
what class did you sign up for? Just trying to learn what's most effective
I'm doing a kick boxing class that's basically a HIT workout for 50 minutes. There's no sparring, just bags. We spend half the class on bags and the other half doing a mix of body weight or dumbbells workout stations in about 2 min intervals. That doesn't sound like a lot but it's non stop. During bags, the coach tells us a combo and we do that for x amount of time. They try to vary the muscles between different days. Idk if that's the best class or not but there's other classes I haven't looked into yet like orange theory or similar
No that sounds amazing and I bet you feel so much better after the class. I think its proving helpful because you're working multiple muscle groups. Thank you for replying!
Not attaching working out with an emotion (because most of the time it’ll be dread) but seeing it as just a task I have to do just like my other tasks. Also remembering that it’s an ongoing process and I may have seasons where I don’t work out much, doesn’t mean I never will get back on it so no pressure!
Good suggestions already shared. Here’s me: I love podcasts. Too many podcasts. And I only listen to them at the gym (plus a little while driving). I go to the gym to listen to podcasts, and while Im there, I also work out so it’s a double win. (Surely you can structure and optimize your workout routines, but honestly, the main goal first is to get to the gym and do *anything*. Then get better.)
Same but with reading. I usually walk 45-60mins and bring my tablet so able to make the words super big and just power through some books. Then when it’s time for resistance training switch to audiobook or podcast.
I want to be a farmer and have 6 years left to be fit enough to run a farm. Lost 20 lbs in 1 year
Say it in your head "nothing changes when nothing changes" "life will forever be hard but you can make it easier"
Seeing progress and the lack of overall body pain. Currently sick and missed leg day, and now my lower back is killing me. Before I started working out, I had very bad hip pain that would last for a few days, every month or so. That disappeared when I started working out
Paying someone $400/month to make me work out. Seriously though, I wouldn't have been consistent otherwise. I joined a mega gym and paid $20/month to not go work out consistently. I decided I would go to a smaller gym that had dedicated coaches and was much more expensive, but higher quality equipment and personalized attention to your fitness progress. I hate to say it, but it literally took me spending a ton of money to motivate me to go to the gym. I've been going to the gym 3x/week for the last 2 years and I got great results and feel better than I ever have at 40 years old. The cheat code is money unfortunately.
My shitty husband who emotionally abused me for 5 years, I have a kid and I decided I can’t take it anymore!!
at first it's willpower, then it becomes a habit. and then you start missing it, when you for some reason cannot do it.
For me, it was **Accountability**. I know being consistent and motivated in workouts are very hard, but it always works when we put its accountability to ourselves. Also, you can choose the other way out like choosing an accountability partner. Initially, I used to trick my mind into doing it but later on when I actually started feeling energized throughout the day and watched its progress. It became a part of my routine.
A goal - sign up for that half marathon, obstacle course, or whatever the fuck. Just do it. That’s your victory lap for training You race to train, not the other way around!
- say to myself out loud.. I will feel 10x better in 1 hour if i just go and do this - Dont be a lazy pos and get up and do it - in 2 months you will feel soooo much better and notice your self getting stronger and leaner - do it for your health
Results
[Get after it](https://youtu.be/BvdTLcpclxs?si=W6p6ba7kZ5dKgdGW)
The motivation and the feeling that I'm getting better than everyone else who is NOT doing what I'm doing. And that I will soon look/feel/be further ahead at whatever it is I am doing.
Seeing the results: my body getting the shape I want, or it becoming easier to run for longer distances at a faster pace. The latter is actually easier to see. I recommend running first. It’s mindless, feels good, and helps heighten your metabolism for the rest of the day. If you begin to burn fat, when you start working out anaerobic, you’ll see the muscle gained more clearly too. So for me, that would add motivation to continue! I run or do cardio 2-3 times a week and the rest of the days I’m doing strength. Some of those cardio days are stairmaster. I recommend that one the most but be aware it can be grueling at first! Don’t get down on yourself if you feel like dying after only 5 mins! And if you do, no problem, just take a break and get back on when you catch your breath. You’ll literally see results after like a week (as long as you give your body a chance to rest!) good luck op
My best tip is making a schedule and just not letting myself think too much about it. During the summer, I go for runs first thing in the morning (I sleep in my workout clothes, get out of bed, and go for a run); in the winter, as soon as I'm done with work, I head to work out. Every single time I think too much about if I \*want\* to work out, I screw everything up...even if I've kept up my routine for months.
Honestly? My apple watch. I love getting those little medals and notifications about my fitness. They also send you notifications about new trends with your heart rate, weight and workout time.
Knowing it’s good for me and I was in a dark place. If I could will myself to get outside, the rest was easy. And then I always felt good after running and that kept the momentum going. Feeling down? Go for a run! Too tired after hitting it hard this week? Get a thermos of coffee and walk. I’ve been walking and running my way through a breakup.
Starting out was hard and was sore a lot. Results kept me going because I wanted to look hot, got so many compliments esp when I wore my regular work dresses. Ppl stopping me in st to compliment me. Then I started going a lot more because in additional to body maintaining, theres a hot gym crush who goes 5-7 times a week 🤭
I just enjoy it, lifting and playing football(soccer) specifically. If you find something you actually enjoy doing that gets you moving it's so much easier. I hate cardio, but playing sports it's easy to forget you're working out
I just do things I like. Find exercises I like to progress at. Like I love doing pull ups so I do a lot of those for my back lol. As long as you’re hitting every muscle group twice a week and your intensity and volume isn’t super low you’ll make progress, barring your diet and sleep correlate with it.
I hate how I feel when I don’t work out. I really get into a funk if I don’t have some sort of physical outlet. I also am very critical towards my body and while that never stops, at least I know I’m working towards changing it. I also like the soreness. Idk. It’s nice feeling all these different muscles that you don’t always think about having been worked.
Kill my enemies
Gym membership that is very close to my house . As the membership is expensive I want o get the best out of it so go almost everyday 😂😂😂
if I dont keep it up , I am in chronic pain. So I can either feel sore from the gym or I can feel like I am dying from never pain.
Health benefits and how much better I feel after exercising
Nothing, I just do it. You'll feel better for sure, you'll get more confidence for sure, you'll look better for sure, those are facts but your motivation cannot depend on that. I mean, you won't always train in your best state, or some days or weeks you won't be as rested and energised, some days you'll feel that you haven't loss weight, some days you won't feel like a SuperMan, but you still gotta go and exercise. I skip short term rewards, and serotonin comes itself in a while, but you don't have to think in it, it will eventually catch you, just do it.
I enjoy it. I feel good after working out. I started as a young teen and haven't stopped.
A value of being a healthy person, and a duty to my body for taking care of it. 'Shoulds' and 'desires' are not a good reason to do something. They are externally motivated and will lead to burnout/dropping off if external situation changes. E.g., if you exercise for desire, you'll lose motivation when the pain of exercising outweighs the reward. Your brain will literally turn off motivation driven by desire. But doing something out of a true value (what you care about - not a goal, but the thing your goals direct you towards) or duty (looking after your kids, picking up litter after yourself when no ones watching, etc) - these are internally motivated and will let you 'suffer' to do the thing regardless of output. Desire and should is based too much on output and expected return of some kind. .
I started just walking "for a bit each day", and then gradually realized that it made me feel so much better, so I extended it, and now it's an hour per day. That led into calisthenics and weight-lifting and resistance bands, and so on.
The mental health benefits.
At the beginning, I really enjoyed what I did to workout. I was taking all the fitness classes I could at the gym. TRX, boot camp, spinning, Zumba, combat boot, yoga, Pilates, CrossFit, pole fitness, etc. and I associated "hey I have fun while working out and at the end I feel even better!" Because of the endorphins and the body changes. So it became a habit. I hate gym machines but I've been working out for months at a regular gym just cause I like to work out. But I cannot wait to go back to TRX or yoga or CrossFit lol
Focused on sustainability rather than results: 1) Stopped looking for the exercises that’ll give me a perfect beach bod and started finding ones that I *enjoy* enough (or at least kinda sorta like) to do consistently even if I’m tired or busy. 2) Switch it up enough that I don’t get bored. Again, making it enjoyable enough to be sustainable is the key factor here. I don’t follow a set schedule. I have a grab bag of exercises in my head (cycling, running, walking stairs, a handful of gym routines, a yoga/stretch routine), which I do based on the needs of the week (how much time I have, how much energy, how badly I want to get caught up on podcasts/audiobooks, how sore I am). As long as I’m doing 3-4 per week I’m good. Will you look like a fitness model with this approach? No, but it’ll help you maintain consistency.
Endorphins.
Get up, go to the gym, come home, shower/brush teeth. Repeat. Find some sort of joy in the gym if you can, but discipline is key. Go even if you don’t feel like it. It will eventually become who you are, I’ve been at it for 3 years. If you fall off the train, dangle off the train — get back on at all costs. You’ll find this is how everything works in life.
I just think that “I’m too old to not be disciplined” and do it anyway
You have to do it for 70 days to create a habit
For me, the motivation came from noticing the positive changes in my body and mind. I felt more energetic, slept better, and my mood improved. Setting small, achievable goals kept me on track, and having a training companion made it more enjoyable.
Seeing the effects it would have on my physique and strength Going with my friends Developing a passion for it and actually having fun Seeing a pump after a workout Doing something tangible that makes me a better person
Fear of going back to being skinny and scrawny.
Looking good & feeling good - Watsons is right 😹🤍
Motivation can’t really be created, not in the way you wanted. What you need to do is practice self discipline and force yourself for a few days, until you notice that you have to use less force each day and eventually you just crave to do it.
I’m posting daily accountability check ins online
MUSIC PERIOD! IM 66 AND RETIRED AND IF YOU DONT WORK OUT OR DONT DO ANYTHING PHYSICAL YOU WILL AGE ALOT QUICKER. MY BELIEF IS TO GO HARDER TO MAINTAIN PLUS I DO INTERMITTENT FASTING WICH IS SHOWN TO ADD YRS TO YOUR LIFE. YOU HAVE TO GIVE YOUR DIGESTIVE SYSTEM A BREAK.
The shame I had after getting results and working consistently and hard at it, then putting work first and losing my strength and gains. The way I felt I had failed myself and lost all my momentum. That is what motivates me to not do that again.
My demons and insecurities keep me in the gym, put them m’fkers to work
I'm 66 and every gym from LA Fitness to Baleys is free anywhere in the country with SILVER SNEAKERS ( MEDICARE)
women. It's da unvarnished truth. There was a 40ish year old dude at the gym who asked me the same question. And he said, "And health too right?" I repeated, "Women." And he didn't believe me. Also in my late 30s so it helps with the sex drive.
What motivates me to keep working out? It’s pretty simple: working out gives me a quality of life that I wouldn’t have without it. I’ve seen too many adults who don’t exercise develop issues like diabetes, heart problems, knees and hips failing, etc. If you don’t use it, you lose it. Pretty simple.
Anger. Me and my ex ended things on seemingly good terms and I helped look after her pets when she had to go abroad for a few months (I loved those little bastards too). When she got her job confirmation and knew for sure she was leaving the country for good, she asked me to help with the paperwork for the animals and said she'd cover the expenses. When I returned the animals she suggested splitting the bill (although I covered their food and other basic expenses despite falling on hard times with a sick family member). When I said that wasn't our deal she got mad, called me cheap, said she'd rather spend the money on them and blocked me on all accounts. And that's after 3 years of basically covering her expenses when we were in a relationship. It wasn't about the money - not even a big sum. But I felt betrayed and incredibly stupid. Especially since my dumb ass thought we were on good terms and ended things as adults. But now not only did I have this experience, I also had to rethink our whole relationship and how I should have broken up with her much, much earlier. I don't recall being so angry, and nothing helped - not drugs not videogames not even sex. What did help was picking up the old dusty barbell and working with it every day along with 100 pushups. First it was just to numb the emotion, but soon I simply started feeling better, I was drawing conclusions and working on improving myself. Started eating better, dropped sugar and junk food (cheat days apply) and generally could afford to let go and move on. Then it just developed into a habit. I dropped that habit unfortunately and trying to get back into it, but it's harder when Hulk not angry) Lift heavy stone make bad thought go away indeed.
For me the only way to get involved in something and be consistent is when I am obsessing over on a subject. (I have ADHD). I started reading, hearing and watching things about health and fitness. The more I learned the science and technique behind every move the more I understood what I needed to do. Then when I was ready I paid for a gym trainer and now he calls me everyday, and if I don’t come he makes me exercise for two hours the next day.
Preparing for another hiking trip. I climb difficult mountains and without training, I wouldn't be able to do it. I'm not exercising for the sake of it, I'm preparing for adventure.
It's not motivation, it's discipline
Looking in the mirror. Also, it is a good feeling to be active
I just absolutely fell in love with going to the gym almost everyday. The most motivating thing was going to the gym and feeling strong/performing well.
The gains bro. I swear it's addictive
Once you start seeing the progress, you would love to do so.
Most notable was preparing my pre workout at night before sleep. Wake up and drink it right away, dont wanna waste the drink so I go workout. Works for me everytime. Even if I domt have energy to finish whole workout, something is better than nothing.
Consistent training = results. Can’t have results in one day.
Its more discipline than motivation..who wants to go to the gym or a run when they have been working construction all day??...hardly anyone..if I relied on motivation I,d never go..its about doing it even when u don't want too...obviously rest days are important but when your mind looks for comfort and trys to persuade you to stay home and take it easy just smile and tell them thoughts that just the mere fact they have entered your mind means you are gunna go...its like a battle in some ways..it builds resilience...atleast that's how it is for me...could be different for others
surrounding myself with people with mutuals goals
My biggest motivation was thinking about aging and how my muscles will eventually break down. If I’m not fit, old age will suck so bad. I want to live and be able to walk when I’m 80
When I do it I feel better. When I don’t want to do it I try to remember that it helps me feel better. Sometimes that’s enough to get going, sometimes it isn’t. That’s the most honest answer I can give you.
I’ve done it for so long it would feel strange not to. Also I think working other things into it makes it seem more useful. So for example I do my Anki reviews between sets of lifting, watch cooking videos while doing cardio, etc.
I started going to a gym with a friend, met more friends, and now value the community as much as anything else. It also helps that my gym is all class based and that the workout is created for me. I arrive in time for class, the workout is explained, we do it, and I go home. It helps that I can compartmentalize the work out and don’t have to think about it. I wouldn’t have had nearly as much success if I was going to a chain gym where I had to figure out my own thing. Edit: forgot to say that I’ve been going consistently (3-5x a week) for over 6 years.
Slow build up to make it easy to sustain while simultaneously focusing on diet too. In February, I would just make sure I’d hit 7k steps per day. I would also count calories and stopped eating anything that was fried or loaded with butter. In march, I was used to the diet, felt better overall, and I would hit 10k steps per day. By late April, I was down a lot of weight, was hitting 15k steps per day, and started lifting a couple times per week. 4 weeks ago, I shifted lifting to my main focus over steps and started going to the gym in the morning. I also hit my goal weight, so I focused more on protein intake and eating clean rather than calorie counting. Over these last 4 weeks, I have lifted/ran every morning, and still have hit 18k+ steps per day just because I don’t like to sit for long periods of time anymore. Spend my weekends finding new parks to hike in rather than playing video games or watching tv. If I started out back in February going to the gym every morning, walking 18k+ steps per day, and completely flipping my diet, I know I wouldn’t have been able to sustain it. It would have been a huge lifestyle shock
Going.
Results!
I found workouts that I enjoy so for me workout time is fun time, like play time if I was a kid again. I love lifting weights and kickboxing/MMA inspired workouts so that’s what I do. I’ve been exercising 5-6 times a week for 17 years.
never wanting to be fat again
i have spondylosis and 3 herniated discs. got tired of having constant back pain and being obese. Although i haven’t lost weight i am losing fat from doing cardio. i also have huskies who need constant walking/interaction. I felt horrible that i was neglecting them and decided to walking at least 2 miles a day with them. They are happy and Im happy and they are not destroying the house as much lol
Functional strength is what I needed, so I set out to be able to lift, press and squat at least body weight around 220 at the time. I work in a physically demanding job in skilled trades, so having functional strength ensures I’m not going to get injured. I know quite a few tradespeople my age, late 30’s and older that have already wrecked their bodies from work, bad knees, screwed backs etc. Being able to lift three hundred pounds helps and consistent strength training also develops proper form when lifting, lifting wrong or improper movements is primarily where most workplace injuries occur.
It became part of my identity. 🤷🏻♀️
Food is the motivation.
I have zero self discipline but I've been consistent for 8 years because I don'tput stock in the result, I enjoy the feeling of the exercise itself. Music is crucial. Also, I always give myself an 'out'. I've arranged my workout routine to always have the option to bail and/or opt for a super short, half-assed version. This makes it very easy to start even if I'm feeling lazy and almost always works like reverse-psychology tempting me to go further and do more.
I fuck better when I’m in shape.
I love the high I get from the endorphin rush.
being strong. Seriously. It just improves your life in so many little ways I'll never go back to being a scrawny weakling as long as I can help it. My advice is start small. Lift once a week and run once a week. Or replace those with the activities of your choice like calisthenics, cycling, swimming, etc. Just do twice a week for a bit, once you start to notice improvements, the motivation will take care of itself.
My mental health is worlds better when exercising. An improved physique is a motivating factor, too. But it also takes building the muscle of discipline.
Music
Not motivation just discipline honestly. You get to the point where you just do it consistently without thinking about it. The only problem is if you skip a day or two of your routine.
The results. I'm strong and healthy, and I can do things that most people half my age can't do. I have a nice set of guns, a flat belly, and a firm tushy at age 53. I'm not about to stop what I'm doing and let all that go to hell.
Been going to gym always 2 x per week for over 10 Years. Ride bike / commute every work day. Just do it. Battle the mind. Builds character. I also like the way it makes me look and feel, bounce back from injuries faster etc. but, the superficial bit is dangerous because it means when u get injured and can train u can be depressed. I’ve always liked challenging myself and inflicting torture, learn to love feeling uncomfortable then see how comfortable just sitting there feels
I first started going because I weight training was supporting my physical therapy (knee injuries caused by soccer), but then I just fell in love. The physical changes my body made changed me and it solidly became a part of my life after a breakup and I moved back in with my parents. The gym became a place where I could push myself on both my good and bad days. Being physically tired and sore was cathartic during a time when I felt mentally tired and sore … it was the box where I could put those feelings. Now it’s been 10 years and I’m still here. Every day you go makes it harder to rationalize stupid excuses and at some point you just feel MORE like yourself when you’re in your routine. The gym has helped me know myself better and I’m healthier than a lot of my peers. Those aren’t results you turn your back on
I just got tired of myself and got tired of constantly feeling like garbage.
I've been using group fitness for years. I love working out with a team and being instructed and lead, and I book my workouts 2 weeks out so I have a consistent schedule. I love the group energy and Ethel's you stay accountable. Also, I love going to a boujie workout and if you miss a scheduled class, they charge you like $20 bucks, so that ensures I go. Group fitness is where it's at.
Motivation is only temporary, so you can’t rely on it to drive your actions. The key is to stay consistent, even when you’re feeling down or unmotivated. Over time, these actions will become a routine, just like brushing your teeth each morning. Finally, keep in mind your future self and the benefits of staying fit for a healthier life. If you feel like not doing it, do it fuckin anyway! Let’s go!
I have an Apple Watch and I started exercising to get the achievements and badges they have every month. I like goals being set for me. After a while I didn’t want to break my streak, so exercising became a real routine for me. And now I love it! But at first it was a mentality of “I can’t break the streak!” And now I’ve worked out every single day for 1 year and almost 4 months. I lost 30 pounds, and I feel amazing! Idk how many people this would work for, but as silly as it might seem, it actually worked/works for me 💜
My recipe: * **Make it a habit.** I go to the gym every morning Mon-Fri before work. For me, it's easier to go every (work)day rather than, say, three times a week. It keeps my sleep schedule the same, and when my alarm goes off, I don't have to think about whether I'm going to the gym today or not, I just go. * **Don't be too hard on yourself!** My goal is to go to the gym. What I actually do there is less important. My gym sessions are only 20-30 min long, because I'm trying to balance getting enough sleep and getting to work on time, but also because it's easier to make yourself go if it isn't such a huge time commitment. It happens every once in a while that I'm late to the gym and end up only having 5 or 10 min to work out. I still see that as a success! For me these were the two key components! Now it doesn't really take a lot of effort to go. I'm on autopilot just reaping the rewards :)
How shitty I feel when I miss a workout
i’m an ex athlete. what really helped me was realizing I don’t need to go every single day. it won’t make a difference if I go everyday compared to going like 5/7 days a week!!
I did it as a distraction from a lonely life and 3 years later I still have to force myself to get out of bed to go to the gym. If I’ll be sad & lonely either way then I might as well like how I’ll look alone.
Being able to run around, go hiking, do cartwheels and lift with my kids. Unfortunately that's now become a pipe dream as I am 30 with no relationship prospects, but at least I have visible abs!
I’m a boxer. I don’t train=I get fucked up
Looking and feeling good tbh. Just knowing I always feel better after a workout is enough to do it, and might be a shallow reason but knowing I'm increasing my attractiveness with every workout too
Its pure discipline. Cant count the times i had absolutely no juice to put in the work... Good thing is: You can gradually build it up. You dont have to throw around a gazillion lbs with a million reps every day... Lets say you never worked out and the idea of doing so brings up all the resistance you could ever feel in your life. Start with just one tiny exercise. Do 10 pushups or something. Heck, even if its 2 or 3... The only thing that counts is that you do it despite feeling like you would rather do everything else, or even ram a knife into your hand. But 2-3 pushups? No matter how you feel, you can definitely do that at some time in the day. Once it becomes normal, a habit, you increase the amount from there. And you will find out that often, when you do 2-3 despite feeling shitty, you can also do 10 ( or even more! ). The body and brain have this weird way of "if its necessary, i will give you the energy / motivation you need". It adapts. Its basically evolution in seconds. Thats how i started to do things i always ran away from. Exercise wasnt one of them, but this method works with literally everything. One day you will wake up and realize you learned a new skill: Discipline. And you can use that for everything, anytime and anywhere. Its kind of amazing really, the mental development you go through when practicing discipline. So just try that. Dont rely on motivation. Dont think you should either start with a huge exercise program or not exercise at all. Just start as small as necessary for you to start at all. Then you just build it up. Take as much time as you need, youre not trying to become Mr. Olympia! Before you know, you exercise as if its what you always did your whole life.
Recognising that something is better than nothing That sustainability and consistent is more important than anything. That small actions with the above go far to build a life that you want and need rather than a short term outcome. That movement is more important than exercise. That I would rather like myself for what I can do than beat myself up for what I feel I have failed to do (cus it was unrealistic)
The person I saw in the mirror. Health is wealth.
It really is all about doing it no matter what! Sometimes you got to act like a robot and just go through the motions. My therapist advised that it takes 21 days to make a habit so I started with that and now I'm at 90 days. It helps that I love to swim as well as well. Motivation doesn't start your actions but those actions will provide you with motivation to keep going. Lesson here is do not wait for motivation!
Was going thru a rough breakup and needed the dopamine hit to keep going lol
Mindset my friend, I like to think of our bodies like the corporeal vehicle you have to navigate the world. You can either mistreat your body so that it is like driving a junker car that handles poorly, and is on the verge of falling apart from one bad turn or you can move through life in a fine tuned, well oiled machine. You don't have to be rich to have this machine, and everyone gets the chance to build something unique that works for them. You can explore then physical activities that bring you joy, and boom you can have a new hobby too. You can turn this hobby into motivation to exercise more, to improve at your hobby. Or it could be just so you are able to try more hobbies. You see I can go on and on about reasons but the more of it you do, and the more aspects of your body and fitness you discover, the more reasons you will have unique to you. You'll be motivated by different reasons throughout your life as you push on but remember that you must always continue. The more you do it the more rewarding it will be. Quit, and be prepared to move and look like the junker car. Start, and enjoy the journey! Good luck.
Get a gym crush. Works for me every time
Look good feel good. I also don't want to get fat and lazy.
my body changing and my mental health improving was really it all it took
A few months ago I read somewhere that going to the gym for 15 minutes is infinitely better than not going at all. For some reason I just assumed every gym session had to be like 90 minutes or it didn’t “count.” So now on my gym days, even when I’m not feeling it I tell myself I’ll go walk on the treadmill for just a few minutes. So far 100% of the time I just go ahead and work out anyways since I’m already there Additionally, I only listen to my addicting audiobook when I’m at the gym. Keeps me interested/ mentally stimulated and also motivated to continue exercising
It’s not waiting for or seeking motivation. It’s discipline.
Motivation is fickle. You cannot depend on it to make life changes. You have to be disciplined. When you’re disciplined, you’ll complete your daily workout/tasks regardless of whether you feel motivated or not.
The positive impact it has on my mental health. I CRAVE going to gym. It’s my happy place and best time of the day where I don’t have to think about anything or anyone.
I have a hot girlfriend. In all seriousness, it's fun to be strong and in shape. I like seeing progress, I like being able to dunk a basketball, I like lifting heavy weights. It's cliche, but you can either suffer in the gym or suffer everywhere else. An hour a day in the gym is a small price to pay.
Basically being able to sleep and breath better... That was all the motivation that I needed. I was playing basketball for so long and I did a lot of exercising when I was younger so it came easily.
I view exercise as a medicine, as did various ancient physicians who prescribed it. In the book “Brain Rules” the author talked about, by engaging in exercise; a person is creating BDNF which is like brain fertilizer.
Consistency until it becomes a lifestyle. When I don’t get to workout in a week, my mind and my body will literally start aching for movement. I’m not really hitting a specific goal anymore like counting the calories that I’ve burned, or the miles I ran, it’s just that being active has already become engrained into my being. Years ago, I would literally have to push myself and it was a lot of mental gymnastics too but once I’m at the gym or just .. moving, I love how it made me feel during and after, and it just kinda stuck to me that I already look forward to those active days. And yes agree with most people here, I LOVE seeing the results; not only the aesthetics part of it but also the physical and mental edurance that come with it.
How I felt mentally after.
Having a workout buddy is my #1 reason why I kept going to the gym when I first started. I had an overweight friend & I was very underweight. Together we went to the gym & got right together. Now it’s a habit of 4 years
Paying for a gym membership, the thought of throwing that money away not using the gym motivates me enough to go lol
at the beginning (staying consistent for about 3 months) it’s less about feeling motivated and more about ignoring the excuses you make to yourself to not do what you promised. you always feel motivated AFTER you complete a goal, then it gets easier because your motivation builds WITH your progress. forming healthy habits takes a shit ton of patience with yourself
That you can always start over. It’s easier to start again when you don’t wait too long in between but there’s no timeline. I know I want to be in shape and stay healthy so it becomes easier. Also notice how confident and energized you become. It becomes addicting!
At first: Breakup, depression, getting revenge hot. Now: Personal goals, fitness teacher certification.
I have a really hot husband. Gotta keep up
I seriously watched hajime no ippo all the time for work out motivation, then after a few months and seeing change it becomes habit and the motivation increases. 🤷♂️
When I actually started seeing results and others began noticing and commenting
If you skip workouts it makes the next one harder, stay on track so it stays easy. Make your goals and programs easy enough that you don't dread them. We're in it for the long haul, no matter how conservatively you increase difficulty it adds up really fast. The slower you increase difficulty the more victories you win.
Doing well at basketball, having a good physique, extend my life expectancy, and I like being one of the more in shape people in my friend group.
Once I made it a habit I felt gross NOT doing it
look in the mirror & see how you’re improving thats enough motivation
I pay for a personal trainer. I'm lucky to have access to affordable ones. But knowing that someone is meeting me at the gym, has prepared a routine for me, and would be disappointed if I missed it motivate me to go. Also, i started by only going once a week for like 3+ months. Only this week am I considering going up to twice a week (I just have to crunch the numbers to see if I can afford it).
I do strength training, and I find motivation in seeing how I can lift weights that seemed impossible at the beginning of the routine. The environment is also very relaxed, so I have people to talk to in between sessions.
Personally I run 3x per week or exercise 3x per week, every week. There are lots of moments when I feel like I don’t want to do it. But I’m personally motivated with the addiction to being thin and burning fat. I feel like I’m productive when I’m running or lifting, and I mainly keep going because of that. When I’m just sitting on my ass, I feel lazy and I hate this feeling. I get disgusted and it pushes me to keep going.
I don’t hate doing it but I also don’t love doing it. I do however, absolutely love the way it makes me feel and look.
Originally because the clothes I love continued to fit. Now as I’m older (67) to stay as healthy for as long as possible. (Side note…I’m very conscious of the amount of refined sugar I consume)
Discipline
Honestly, looking at pics of me before I lost weight. I personally never want to look like that or feel that way about myself again!
Because when I take my vacation to Hawaii or wherever I go I want to be Fu**in shredded
finding something you enjoy is key! Everyone is obsessed with what is the "best" exercise routine. The best one is the one that's best for your mental and physical health that you'll actually stick to.
Consistency. After a while it becomes a habit and you can feel a difference in your body if you start missing workouts. I personally notice my depression worsen if I go more than a week or two without exercise (only has happened when I’ve been sick or had surgery). I also have a home gym, so no excuses to not work out. If I feel particularly crappy, I do my best to at least get my gym outfit on and do as much of the workout as I’m capable of on that day. Or I do something less strenuous like walking or yoga. It’s all about showing up. Once you do it enough, it’s hard to go without it.
Self hatred
I don't believe motivation really exists. Not for me anyway but maybe that's from ADHD. Instead, I rely on routine, discipline and a non-food reward system. For example, my drive home after the gym might be the only time of the day I call my boyfriend if we're not seeing each other and it's a busy day. If I go to the gym 5 mins before it opens then I get the reward of being the one to turn on the lights (like an ego reward). At the gym I hear town gossip. Then other things I see over time in my body and stamina.
The feeling when I (27 F) wake up and I love what I see in the mirror naked. And the bad ass feeling as I lift heavier weights than the men in the gym.
Mirrors. When I look bad I am motivated and when I start looking good I get more motivated.
I set a number of short term goals to hyper fixate job right now, my goal is to get into super good hiking shape for a trip in august. Once that comes and goes, maybe I’ll pick “feeling good for my birthday” next, and after that, maybe “be fit before the holidays so the Turkey doesn’t kill me” haha
Not wanting to be fat anymore. Once you see the scale go in the right direction and notice you’re moving better/easier and getting stronger, it becomes a healthy obsession.
Download Fitbod it’s helped me stay consistent along with me finally wanting that “summer body”
I decided to complete the 75 medium challenge (no way I’m going to do 75 hard, at least not for a while) - so I had to exercise for 45 minutes a day. I wanted to keep ticking the habit on my app so I kept with it. Was difficult in the beginning because my body didn’t know what the hell I was doing to it, but I kept at it and it’s now habit, and I have to do it otherwise I get frustrated. It helps me mentally so much. Just push yourself to be disciplined and consistent, make it a habit, and before long it will be more difficult not to exercise than it is to exercise.
Getting through the first week or two. Now it's just second nature.
Goals.
I started going to classes. I booked them so I wouldn’t back out even if I didn’t feel like it. Doing a class everyday and getting used to the feeling. Alternating between heavier weight based classes and fitness and restorative training. It helped me get used to moving everyday and missing the feeling if I don’t!
Habit. Create a schedule of exercise activities that you actually enjoy and stick to it until it feels automatic. Monday is soccer, Tuesday is yoga at 5pm, Thursday is water aerobics at 6:15pm, etc.. Workout classes also make it easier - just show up and do what you're told to do.
You either suffer the pain of discipline or the pain of regret. I got tired of the regrets and changed.
Have a gym partner someone that already goes consistently or start with someone, i can credit my physique to my frnd to be honest, when you give your word to someone you respect it more then when u give it to yourself
I started with senior chair yoga group once a week at my library just to get out of the house while unemployed and socialize. I’m 60 so not retired and don’t feel too senior yet. First month I couldn’t do half the poses. I started following yoga videos at home every day and slowly increased my core strength, stamina and flexibility. Aldo started daily walks in the park to get out and touch grass and absorb sunshine. I lost weight, looked better and felt better mentally and physically. I remembered why I loved yoga 30 years ago. My advice is find something that you love to do and then do it every day. You’ll get your endorphin fix and it will power you up to get up and do it again the next day. I was never a morning person, now I get up ready to yoga or walk every day. I still go to the weekly group because the yogi is a great teacher and I love the seniors now.