After a long day who really wants to go to the gym on their way home? Most of us don’t which is why it becomes an easy excuse to say “I’ll work out tomorrow instead.” But before long this becomes a bad habit and tomorrow never comes for your workout plan. It’s time to start acting today and find a way to motivate yourself to get to the gym! 

Whether you workout at the gym, outside, or in your own home, it can be hard to find motivation to start a workout. We all have busy lives, limited time, and a lack of energy at the end of the day. However, these shouldn’t be excuses for skipping the workouts we know we should be doing for the benefit of our health, energy, and stress levels. Getting to the gym is at least half the battle, which is why we’ve come up with some tips to help you get started on your workout. Follow these tips to motivate yourself to get to the gym immediately:

• Find a Workout You Enjoy

If you truly enjoy the workouts you’re doing, then it won’t feel like a daily chore anymore. Test out a few different options to find the right one for you. Do you prefer group fitness? Try out some fun classes like kickboxing or dance cardio. Do you enjoy yoga or would you rather stay home and workout using online videos? Research yoga studios near you or browse YouTube for some free workout videos! There are so many options out there; you’re bound to find a workout you love.

• Put it on Your Schedule

If you’re having trouble finding time for the gym, literally schedule your workout into your day so that it’s non-negotiable when gym time rolls around. Set a reminder on the calendar on your phone or jot it down in your planner. Any method that works for you is fine so long as you schedule time for the gym and stick to it.

• Dress for Success!

This is usually a tip for working professionals but it applies to the motivation for the gym as well. Most people enjoy their workout more when they feel like they look good. If you get home and don’t feel like working out, put on a gym outfit that makes you feel good and it might just be enough to convince you to lace up your sneaks and get out the door.

• Use the Buddy System

Find a gym buddy to hold you accountable. Whether it’s a friend who actually goes to the gym with you or just someone to text you with a few motivating words to inspire your workout, having some accountability can make a big difference.

• Reward Yourself

Your reward for reaching new fitness goals should never be something too indulgent, but you might find it motivating to reward yourself with something small. Try rewards like buying a new workout top after reaching a certain milestone, or cooking your favorite healthy meal after finishing your nighttime workout.

• Turn Up the Tunes

Music can be a great workout motivator, especially during cardio exercise. Create a new workout playlist filled with upbeat and motivating songs to power you through tough workouts.

• Write Down Your Goals and Stick to Them

One of the best ways to get started on your fitness journey is to sit down and get really clear with yourself about why you are starting. Do you want to lose weight? Build muscle? Find a healthy source of stress relief? Figure out you are why and remind yourself of it often, especially on the days you really don’t feel like going to the gym.