Let’s be honest sometimes getting into shape can be a right ball ache. Here are five things that you can do, which will make getting into shape not suck (or at least suck much less) and dare I say it…become actually enjoyable. Like seriously, exercise can be fun.
1) Be In The Right Environment
Whether that’s running by an amazing view, working out by the beach, or just in an exercise class with a great vibe. A good environment will really lift your mood and can even make the workout a pleasure. Sometimes it’s as simple as good company and working out with a friend. Or if you’re a home bird being in the comfort of your own living room working-out to your favourite YouTube video.
2) The Right Music
There are certain songs we love, but they aren’t necessarily the best workout tunes. I have a favourite playlist purely for running and working out. Some songs really make me wanna work out harder, get to know which ones do that for you, and create a customised playlist to sweat too.
3) Something Fun
I like using skipping ropes, some like Zumba. Many moons ago I used to run Cheerobics classes which were loads of fun. Find something that works for you.
4) Kindness
I did a run last week. The weather was scorching, my music kept cutting out (and without Beyonce life is sad) and to top it off I was having the mother of all periods. As you can imagine it wasn’t the best run. In fact, it was god awful. I was so hot that I turned my top into a crop top, I was passed giving a sh*t what I looked like. I pushed myself to do a 5K which is something I’ve only recently build back up to, thinking if I managed it again I’d feel proud of myself. I didn’t. I just felt sick, dehydrated, and like a roasted pig. What I should have done is went for a walk or just ran for 10 minutes. I felt pleased I’d worked out, but pushing myself didn’t feel worth it. There are times to push ourselves and times to be kinder to ourselves. Get in tune with your body.
5) Progress Log
Sometimes we’ll have an amazing workout and sometimes we’ll feel like we suck. Getting into shape is more of a mental battle than anything else. I find using my TomTom watch really helps me. I can set myself goals and track my performance from run to run. When I look at my previous session sometimes there isn’t much to shout about, but if I look back a few weeks (and I’ve been consistent) there is always improvement which spurs me on. Before having my watch I used running apps on my phone. I used to like the Nike app for workout logging and inspiration. I think having goals and seeing improvement can really give you a bit of a high.
Getting into shape should ultimately be fun. Sometimes we have to push through, but ultimately no pain no gain is overrated. Find what you love and do it ♥
