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Sometimes, finding the motivation to work out can be just as hard — if not harder — than doing the workout itself. That’s why learning how to stay motivated is an essential part of any fitness routine, whether you’ve been working out for years or you’re just beginning a new health journey. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to encourage yourself to get moving and motivate yourself to work out.
Ahead, you’ll find 15 tips for finding the workout motivation you may be sorely lacking right now. Some have worked for me personally, others are backed by research, and a number are directly from an expert: Kelly Froelich, an NASM- and ACE-certified trainer and cofounder of the digital fitness platform Balanced, who was kind enough to share how she keeps herself (and her clients) motivated.
As you read through them, remember that it doesn’t reflect on your character; no fitness journey is linear, and even the most dedicated gym-goers, athletes, and trainers experience dips in motivation at one point or another, too. If you’re not feeling motivated to work out, also consider what might be causing those feelings in the first place: are you exhausted, burnt out, stressed out by work, or feeling pressured to do other things instead of taking time for yourself? Addressing the root cause of your lack of motivation could help you prevent tough moments where you rely on sheer willpower alone to get a workout in.
In the meantime, though, these tips for finding workout motivation can help. Keep reading to for some inspiration, and keep in mind that one of these motivational strategies could work for you today, and another might work for you tomorrow. Keep them all in your arsenal so you’re always ready to find some energy to make a workout happen.
— Additional reporting by Lauren Mazzo