Having the drive and determination to get that workout in can be challenging. Even for the most committed fitness enthusiasts, there will always be an occasion when you don’t want to do anything. For many people, this lack of desire to get a workout done can spell disaster and derail all of their efforts thus far.
But how do you overcome a fitness slump, regain your motivation to get fit, and keep things moving in the right direction?
Hire A Personal Trainer
Working with a personal trainer can be a great way to get you back on board and motivated to push through the slump. Having someone else there to push you, cheer you, and give you a workout designed to deliver results can be all you need to reignite your passion or at least get you into the gym. However, not all personal trainers are equal, and you need to know how to pick the right personal trainer for you so you can get the right results from someone who knows exactly what you need and can get the best from you.
Change It Up
There is a benefit to having a consistent workout schedule, especially when you’re trying to grow or define specific muscles; however, if you’re not feeling it, then it might be time to try something completely different. Are you sick of cardio? Try some weight exercises like kettlebell swings or squats to mix it up. Sick of bench presses or deadlifts? No worries, try yoga or pilates. Drop a run and instead work on strength training or mobility. This change in direction, even just for one session a week, can help you still get something done and hopefully reignite that spark to spur you on.
Challenge Yourself
Setting yourself goals or targets to hit can be a powerful tool for getting going even when you really do not want to. Let’s say you’re working towards a new chest press personal best and you’re treating yourself once you hit it. Then, use this to push through those slumps you’re experiencing. Even adding an incentive to your goals can help you stay on the straight and narrow and not undo all of your hard work to date.
Short and Spicy
Do you dread the thought of an hour-long session? Why not reduce the time you work out but give it an extra kick so you push yourself more to get the most from the session?
This is a ‘Short and Spicy’ workout- a high-intensity, shorter-duration workout that can be as effective as a longer session.
30-minute muscle-building workouts that pile on the intensity and push you can be just as effective as your usual session. Just make sure you actually get in there and get it done.
These workouts focus on compound movements and high-intensity intervals, allowing you to build muscle and burn fat in less time.
Accountability Buddy
Lastly, having someone you can count on to kick you into shape and ensure you both know what needs to be done can be extremely beneficial. Whether they come with you, take you there and supervise, or simply nag you, having someone to hold you accountable can be just what you need to move through this slump.