Lost your motivation for exercise? Here’s how to get your mojo back
Lockdown 3.0 feels different. People seem fed up, more anxious, less patient and a lot of us have lost motivation for exercise. If you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone: a recent survey revealed 40% of people are doing less exercise in this lockdown than during the first.
The truth is, it was easier to get motivated for exercise during the first lockdown. The weather in April, May and June was perfect for exercise. We had more time on our hands and restrictions were tighter so the choice was either to go outside for exercise, or stay home all day. Motivation was easier back then.
However, there are things you can do right now to boost your motivation and minimise the effort it takes to exercise! First of all…
Think Positive.
Don’t look back on the things we’ve missed. Let go of the negativity and look forward to the brighter times ahead. We have lots to look forward to in the next few months. We know that team sports and outdoor group exercise can re-start on March 27, and gyms can reopen from April 12. And, with warmer weather, lighter mornings and milder evenings on the way we can definitely see light at the end of the tunnel!
Make It Easy To Exercise.
Get your workout gear out of the drawer and ready the night before. Plan exercise that doesn’t require far to travel.
Do as many things as you can beforehand so that, when the time comes, starting your workout is easy.
Plan Your Exercise When It’s Most Convenient.
Personally, I find early morning exercise most convenient because there’s less temptations and obstacles that require my attention. Look at your schedule and plan your workouts at the most convenient time for you.
Do What You Enjoy.
It’s a lot easier to motivate yourself for something that you enjoy. Or something that you know is worthwhile. If you’d rather go for a run than lift weights then do it. It’s better to do what you want to do, and requires a lot less mental effort than trying to force yourself to do something you don’t enjoy.
Reward yourself.
Set a goal you'd like to achieve, and decide what you'll treat yourself with when you get there.
For example, if you manage to exercise consistently all month, allow yourself to buy something you really want. Alternatively, it can be shorter-term goals: if you work out three times midweek you can have a glass of wine at the weekend.
Try there four simple things and it will give you a little boost of motivation to get you through the rest of lockdown three. You only have to keep it going for another four to six weeks before fitness businesses re-open again and then you’ll have extra help available.
NHS exercise advice:
Adults should - Aim to be physically active every day. Any activity is better than none, and more is better still.
Do strengthening activities that work all the major muscles (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms) on at least two days a week.
Do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity a week.
Reduce time spent sitting or lying down and break up long periods of not moving with some activity.
You can also achieve your weekly activity target with: Several short sessions of very vigorous intensity activity. A mix of moderate, vigorous and very vigorous intensity activity.
You can do your weekly target of physical activity on a single day or more, w hatever suits you.
These guidelines are also suitable for: disabled adults; pregnant women and new mothers.