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Do you ever experience those days where the LAST thing you want to do is workout?? Maybe you’re feeling low on energy, maybe you’re stressed out and don’t feel like you have time, or maybe you just really really don’t want to. I’m here to tell you that all of this is normal and guess what, it’s OKAY! Sometimes you just have those days, but I often find that when this happens to me, movement is the exact thing I need, even if it is extremely gentle movement. If you find yourself feeling this way a lot, there are lots of strategies you can try to keep you motivated. Read on to learn about some of my favorites!

Do Something Small

This one is my favorite to keep in mind when I’m feeling low on energy. When I truly can’t fathom the thought of a full intensity workout, I tell myself anything is better than nothing. These are the days I I tell myself that if I can get even a 10-15-minute workout in, I’ll thank myself later. This typically looks like yoga, a walk, or even a 10 minute abs or booty workout. The biggest hurdle is usually just starting, and I often find that once I get over that initial hump, I am more likely to make it a longer workout. Although 10 minutes doesn’t sound like much, it is better than the alternative which is not working out all!

Sign Up In Advance

By signing up for a workout class ahead of time (whether that be a few days in advance to a few hours) you’re automatically holding yourself accountable. This is especially true if you have to pay for the class ahead of time! Think of the days or certain situations that most often leave you feeling unmotivated to get your workout in. If you know of these situations ahead of time, then you can proactively avoid having to deal with the mental struggle of “do I or don’t I?” By signing up for a class, you inevitably make time for your workout in your schedule, and you know what to expect.

Picture Yourself Succeeding

If you can imagine yourself after your workout, you may feel more motivated to get moving. What’s better than the feeling of accomplishment after breaking a sweat? If you keep this in mind, you’re reminding yourself of the instant benefits of exercise. The best part – you can only achieve this by getting through your workout!

Try one of these the next time you feel like skipping out on your workout!

Written by GUADS staff member Emily