Buzz
If you’ve skipped a few workouts for 'hot vaxxed summer' or struggled to keep up your routine with the changing seasons, you’re not alone. Fall has arrived, and with it comes the return to more predictable schedules. Now's the time to make sure fitness stays a priority. Whether you're holding onto your summer habits or starting fresh with a fitness routine, here are some strategies to keep you on track with your goals.
Start small for consistency’s sake
True change doesn’t come from one-off workouts, but from sticking with it. In fact, consistency is the key to overcoming most of your fitness challenges.
To begin small, let go of the all-or-nothing mentality. Isn’t one push-up better than none? If finding time for long workout sessions doesn’t fit into your schedule, try exercise “snacks” instead. (Though we’re not suggesting that a “four-second workout” will lead to major gains). It’s much easier mentally when your goal is to tackle a five-minute workout in front of you, rather than burning out too quickly while chasing an abstract idea of a bikini body. When unsure, take it day-by-day.
Boost your motivation
Not everyone is inherently motivated by the love of hard work. Odd, but true.
Your goals may be physical, but it’s essential to source your motivation from within. If you’re only motivated by the idea of looking a specific way by a distant deadline, you’re likely setting yourself up for disappointment. Instead, focus on something beyond “getting hotter”, and you'll realize how effective exercise can be.
Even if your goals aren’t tied to appearance, you might still be sabotaging yourself with a simple binary of “yes, I achieved my goal” versus “no, I failed.” Consider starting with an open-ended question to get your training moving.
Incorporate seasonal workouts
Take full advantage of the changing seasons! Consider activities like hiking through fall foliage, signing up for local holiday-themed 5K races, or even learning how to lift weights in the cold. As Chris Ryan, a certified functional strength coach, former Division I athlete, and MIRROR trainer, puts it, 'Changing your workout or even your workout environment can do wonders if you're feeling unmotivated.' So, whether or not you join your town's turkey trot, adding variety to your routine brings both mental and physical benefits.
Prepare for seasonal hurdles
Breaking news: Winter weather isn’t always fun. (At least, in many places, it’s not). Learn how to dress appropriately, or gear up for at-home workouts. We’ve gathered our top home workout tips from 2020 (I wonder what happened in 2020 to spark those tips?).
Plan for activities to look forward to
I’ve already registered for a spring marathon, which means my winter running plan is locked in. One of my biggest motivators is financial: If I’m paying to run, I better make sure I run.
Sign up for a fitness class, schedule a hiking trip with friends—anything that adds an extra layer of accountability (and excitement!) to help you stay on track with your goals.
It’s easy to fall into hibernation mode as the seasons shift. But by personalizing your fitness goals, both mentally and physically, sticking to them becomes much easier.
