Motivation

[jchrisobrien]

It's been lacking lately, as far as the gym goes.  I can blame a cold for the first half of the year, but the second half has been a combination of laziness and social engagements.  I don't like telling people " sorry I can't do X, I have to go to the gym", on the other hand I'll look in the mirror and say "you're slipping, boy."  The best solution to such a situation is to plan a workout schedule during specific times and to stick to it.  Maybe it means morning workouts some days, maybe it means hitting the gym right after getting home (which would be ideal).  That still leaves time for an open evening's worth of plan.  That's the real key: the quick post work turnaroud time.  How do the rest of you resolve your workout dilemas?

This weekend is a little more full than usual.  Early forecasts are ranging from really good to amazingly hella awesome.  I'll have a better picture of things by Saturday night!

Comments

[silentq.livejournal.com]

I've been slacking for all of Jan. I started PT for my foot/knee and have been aching almost constantly from that. Plus a virus and a mini-cold kept me a slug.
So, in an effort to find my motivation, here's what I used to do. :)
Work out *right* after work. Like not even change from my biking clothes before jumping on the elliptical right after work. :) If I sit down it's all over. This way I'm motivated to get the workout done fast, since then I can eat (I have a snack just before leaving work usually). I have to shower anyway once I get home, so once food + shower are done, I'm ready to go on to the evening's events.
Another thing is to have a fall back "essentials" workout that's really short. Because if I skip it altogether one night, it's easy to keep skipping, but if I do 10-15mins of one set each for the key muscle groups, it keeps the momentum going.

I hope you have a great weekend. :)

[silas7.livejournal.com]

I would have to say the weekend was pretty great! :)

I think you've nailed the key to getting things done. In my case, walk in the door, get my gym bag, walk righ back out, and get it done. That will still leave me with most of my evenings free, and my gym obligations fulfilled.

Which I can start as soon as I return from Tampa. :)

[silentq.livejournal.com]

Hooray for a good weekend. :)
I was able to motivate myself to work out again finally, but at 10pm on Sunday night. Oops. :) Ah well, I'll take what I can get, and it's nice to feel post workout muscle aches rather than injury aches this morning.
Have a good trip!

[feather-brain70.livejournal.com]

I've been a slacker for a couple of months. Problem was that I used to go with somebody. Now they are not around. Once I move to Somerville, I'll have someone to go with again. I've made it three times this week (though only doing cardio and abdominals) I've been trying to go before work. I tend to be too tired after work. (Also because my work schedule is still fucked up).
Have a amazingly hella awesome weekend.

amazi ngly hella awesome weekend

[silas7.livejournal.com]

you know? it was!

Going before work seems very tough for me, because it would entail getting up at 6, and I've never been a morning person. After work for the most part would be ideal, if I had the steel to do so. That's the rub.

[etrinao.livejournal.com]

i plan it into my schedule the same way i plan work into my schedule.

if it's a time when i really don't feel like saying "sorry, i have to work out", i just say i'm generally busy.

and i don't offer that time as options to see me.

and i ususally do just say "i'm working out then" and i take pride in the fact that i'm taking an interest in my body's health and attractiveness.

and...as for post workout turn around time? i 'unno. as you get more in shape you need less? that's all i've got there.

[silas7.livejournal.com]

That's true. If you make working out an essential, you just plan around it.

It's just a matter of getting to that point. And really, we owe it to ouselves to make that sort of time. Working out isn't just for vanity, it's for health and general well being.

That, and looking good. :)

[lepidosiren.livejournal.com]

I work out at home. Saves time, eliminates excuses.

Another trick: Learn many different ways to exercise -- not just "conventional" weight training. Look into kettlebells, Indian clubs, bodyweight exercises, bicycling, speed rope, martial arts... If working out becomes entertaining, or at least novel and interesting, you'll do it more often.

[silas7.livejournal.com]

I might have more distractions at home, what with my computer and paints and all!

Worknig out should have an element of fun to it, which definitely helps one's motivation. Finishing a good workout gets your endorphins flowing, gives you that "natural high." That's as good a motivation as any!

Variety in one's workout is also key.