How do you stay motivated?

fnm101

Hi! A friend just asked about how I stay motivated to work out. My list is posted below. Please share what keeps you motivated, too! Many of us in the north might really benefit from your tips as winter descends upon us...

Thanks!

1) I tend to do better when I workout first thing in the morning. Even if I'm sleep-deprived, if I can manage to DRAG myself out of bed early, I'm MUCH more likely to workout that day. Getting out of bed is the hard part...

2) I either sleep in my workout clothes or set them out (including shoes, water, mp3 player, etc.) the night before. That's 25% of the "battle"...

3) Speaking of clothing...I try to check the weather the night before so that I'm prepared for what it'll be like when I open the door in the dark. You don't want rain or 6 inches of snow to surprise you and give you an excuse to go back to bed. (I've had those days LOL) Checking the weather allows you to be prepared with the right gear (see #2).

4) I sign up and PAY FOR different activities. As a grad. student, I have free access to campus gyms. Since that doesn't necessarily motivate me (although I love working out), it helps me to pay for things that are expensive enough that I won't miss them. I pay for rowing in the spring and summer, sign up for races (10k's, half-marathons), and purchase Groupons and Living Social deals. This winter, I'm starting CrossFit (which is a bit pricey, so I will definitely GO!).

5) I switch things up! As noted above, I row, run, and lift, but not all at the same time. Rowing is perfect because once it gets cold we're off the water for months...It makes me really look forward to getting back on the water in March, and I know that I have to work hard through the winter so that I won't suck! (I row competitively.)

6) I try to work out in groups with people I know. Going to the gym alone is quite bring to me. I'm doing CrossFit this winter with two friends (and it's in a group class context).

7) I weigh myself every week. Seeing the number go UP will keep my motivation right on track! ;-)

8) I keep trying new things...This past week, I went to SkyZone trampoline center in Canton, MI with a group of friends. We were probably the only adult-only group (lots of kids' b-day parties...) but it was SOOOOO FUN! And I burned about 400 calories in 30 minutes by jumping up and down, playing dodge ball, etc...I don't know if there's one in your area, but if you haven't tried it before I'd highly recommend it! http://canton.skyzonesports.com