Overcoming Challenges to Get to the Gym

1. GET RID OF OBSTACLES.

Maybe something is stopping your gym trip. Is the coffeemaker not working, sapping you of the crucial caffeine jolt you like before a workout? Do you not like your gym’s location or their fitness class instructors? Don’t wait until you can use roadblocks to excuse a missed session. Take action to resolve the problem so you have a clear path toward your goals.

2. CONSIDER A TRAINER.

Fitness instructors add to the cost of your workout, but they can also be invaluable. An expert can design a program based on your goals, show you how to use equipment, and provide tips on nutrition. You may find you don’t need their assistance for long but having them present while you start out could compel you to stick with it and build the confidence to do it on your own.

3. LOG YOUR WORKOUTS.

By recording distances, weights, and other workout milestones in your fitness journey, you’ll be able to see progress on paper. That record can come in handy when you’re feeling uninspired or unmotivated. Remembering a time when you could only run a half-mile, for example, might motivate you to stick with it because you’re now used to running two or three miles.

4. TAKE TIME TO RECOVER.

You may feel like hitting the gym every day leaves no room for laziness. Eventually, you’re going to realize that your body’s desire for rest will overcome your iron will, and you may find yourself going days or weeks without working out. It’s better to build in some recovery time, whether that means doing nothing or just temporarily turning your activity level down. That way, you’ll avoid being too tired to tackle your next workout session.