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. :)

[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.

[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.

[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.