Define Your Exercise “Why”
Lock in to what moves you.
Biltmore Park neighbors Wilmarie Strock, Leslie Johnson and Anna Briggs.
The new year can help us feel so motivated to achieve our goals, but now that we’re heading into the third month, let’s cover how to keep your momentum going!
Let’s start with your “why.” Ask yourself, Why do I work out?
Here is my why: I show up differently in the world on the days I work out versus the days I don’t. With work and three young children, my time in the gym allows some me time, a mental break, a confidence and mood boost, and it energizes me for the day ahead. After a workout, I can jump right into my to-do list and check things off!
Why is your why so important?
On days when motivation is low — it’s cold outside; I’m tired and overwhelmed and it feels like the easiest thing to take off my list is exercising — I remember my why and remind myself how I feel after I go to the gym and how it’s an important part of being able to tackle the day ahead. As soon as I do that, I’m throwing my gym clothes on and heading out the door.
If your why doesn’t have an instant gratification component, such as building muscle or losing weight, how do you continue to stay motivated when the results take longer? Still start by returning to your why. Then reevaluate the goal. Does a new goal need to be set? Have things in your life changed and you need to adjust the goal accordingly? Is the goal attainable or can you break it into smaller steps and work up toward that bigger goal?
Don’t be afraid to change the goal to meet you where you’re at. If we continue to push ourselves beyond what we’re ready for, we’ll get discouraged and quit before we finish or we’ll beat ourselves up, which is counterproductive.
If the goal is still attainable but you need help, try any (or all) of the following to keep the motivation going!
- Schedule your workouts ahead of time and set reminders on your phone. Your workout is just as important as a doctor appointment.
- Set yourself up for success. Prepare what you need the day before to get yourself to the gym.
- Are you motivated by rewards? Set a reward for yourself when you reach a goal.
- Message your gym bestie and ask if they’ll help you stick to your goal (and you can do the same for them).
Don’t let your motivation wane the deeper you get into 2025. Think about where you want to be at the midpoint — July. Define where you want to be at the end of the year. Make a plan that works for you.
Carrie Robitzer, owner of Burn Boot Camp Asheville, sponsors Focus on Fitness.
Dana Hall is the ad strategist for Stroll Biltmore Park and a certified fitness trainer at Burn Boot Camp.