With the current lockdown on due to coronavirus, we know it’s difficult to maintain your regular workout routine. The stress and uncertainty about the future can affect your mental health and motivation to keep up some form of exercise.
However, being active right now is one the most important things you can do to get through these difficult times. Working out even for just 30 minutes a day will help to lower stress hormones like cortisol release the feel-good hormone – endorphin.
Here are 8 ways to motivate yourself to workout at home when you don’t feel like it:
- Free home workout videos – With gyms being shut, Sun & Sand Sports is offering several free workout videos to help you stay in shape from the comfort of your home. From HIIT, TRX and ab workouts to yoga and meditation, pick any workout that suits your mood. Check them out @sunsandsports.
- Keep your workouts short – On days when you don’t feel like doing a long workout, clocking in just 20-30 minutes will be better than not working out at all. Choose a short, medium-to-high intensity workout or do a quick yoga session at home to stretch those muscles.
- Focus on how it makes you feel – It’s important to choose a workout that you enjoy, rather than following a training plan for the sake of it.That way, instead of waiting for it to finish, you’ll feel great after and will look forward to it daily.
- Workout with a partner – Exercise with a family member or friend you stay with. Or better yet, get creative and sweat it out virtually over a video call. It’s always easier to stick to a workout plan and stay motivated when friends or family join in with you.
- Make space and time – Dedicate an area in your home to working out. It’ll help remind you to exercise regularly and you won’t need to re-shuffle your furniture every day. Set a fixed time to get your sweat on and stick to your schedule. It’s easy to come up with excuses and get out of exercising when you don’t follow a particular schedule.
- Dress to break a sweat – Dressing for the part can help boost your motivation to complete a chosen activity. This is a tried and tested method that works for me on many days. If you’re in full gear, you’re more likely to complete your workout.
- Don’t make excuses – Even with no equipment and limited space, there are many simple yet high-calorie burning workouts you can follow just using a mat or towel. Avoid making excuses and try your best to make do with your surroundings.
- Buy new workout gear – Adding a new pair of running shoes or clothes to your wardrobe can add an element of excitement. When you look good, you feel good and will be tempted to get moving in your new gear.
This article was originally published by Sun & Sand Sports.