In every workout program, having the right mindset is already winning half the battle. This is why it is essential to master some mental tricks to make exercise a habit.
While body training requires much physical strength, the mental skill of a person will also play a crucial role in getting the job done. You will not always be in your 100%, and there will come a time that you will become less consistent on your workouts.
The erratic schedule, sleepless nights, and the disinterest to go to the gym will disrupt your routine. To overcome this mental hurdle, here are five hacks to help your mind and body stay on the fitness track.
And for a more comfortable and hassle-free workout program, make sure you sport your best muscle tank tops and the proper exercise footwear.
1. Start Slow
One would typically go for high-intensity exercise to have a strong start. But starting slow remains as one of the best mental tricks to make exercise a habit. Instead of going for a long distance swim or run or lifting heavy weights, it is better to start slow and small.
You can go for a 10-minute run, brisk walk, ten push-ups, curl-ups while watching TV, or squats while folding the laundry. In this case, you will be able to accustom yourself in winning small feats. Remember it is the small victories that prepare you for a bigger one.
Furthermore, it helps your body to do movements and improves muscle memory. It helps in the preparation and the conditioning of both the mind and body for the bigger task ahead.
2. Lower Your Expectations
Goal setting is one of the biggest ways to motivate yourself to workout. But setting the right expectations is more critical and more sensible. Even in gym life, the goals should be SMART or specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound.
You should make your goals more manageable and achievable. By trimming down your goals, you are training your mind to be successful. Most people who failed to reach their #fitnessgoals are those who kept on falling short because their expectations are not doable.
When you consistently hit your daily goal, it helps you establish stronger drive and confidence in reaching the bigger reward.
3. Be more decisive in skipping workouts
As mentioned earlier, you are not on always in your A-game. There are times that you will feel the urge to skip training sessions because of the lack of sleep or busy schedule.
To avoid a negative impact on your exercise, encourage yourself that skipping workouts happens because of your decision and not by accident. Be more conscious about this matter and make yourself accountable for this decision.
4. Don’t Fall in Love With One Type of Workout
Many people fail to realise that fitness and health is not a one size fits all system. While it is easy to become obsessed with one type of workout, it is also important to try various exercises for the benefits of different muscle groups.
Remember that people are not created equal. An exercise may be effective for others but not for you. If your training does not produce any results, do not be afraid to try something new.
5. Say No to All or Nothing Mentality
Some examples of all or nothing mentality are “I will start with my fitness journey after I resign,” or “I will work out after the holidays.”
People should abandon this mindset and start treating every single day as a choice. It is either you are in today, or you are out. Do not wait for the next days or weeks or months before you start. To make exercise your habit, decide that you will go for an exercise each day.