Five Strategies for Going to the Gym

It’s February. You’ve long given up on your New Year’s resolution to go to the gym. Maybe next year, right? Wait! Though you may have found yourself slacking, it’s time to try a different strategy.

1) Feel (almost) instant gratification. Think about how you’ll feel once you are done with your workout. Working out boosts your mood and gives you more energy. Once you’re finished, your body and mind will thank you. That reading assignment you were having trouble focusing on before you went to the gym will be easier to complete.

2) Make little goals. Tell yourself that you’re just going to do 10 minutes of cardio and then you can stop, or that you’ll cut your weightlifting workout in half. Chances are that once you’ve gotten there and started moving on the elliptical or lifting weights, you will realize it’s not that bad and finish your entire workout.

3) Prepare in advance. Get whatever you need ready for the gym. Put out your workout clothes, running shoes, water bottle and gym card before you leave for class. If you have everything ready to go, you have no excuse not to when you get back. Better yet, bring your gym items to class and fit your workout in on your way back to your apartment.

4) Sign up for a race. Any type of race will work. Even better, get at least one of your friends to sign up too. Make a training schedule together and commit to it. Knowing your friend is waiting on you will make you accountable.

5) Reward yourself. Regress to the days when everyone got a gold star for doing something good. Each day you complete your planned workout, put a sticker on your chart. When you reach your predetermined number, reward yourself with a manicure or a new shirt.

Happy training!