We all have days when we don't feel like working out and we all have excuses for why we can't go to the gym. “It's too early. It's too late. I don't have time. I'm too tired. I'm too sore. I don't know what to do. I'm embarrassed to be there.” The list goes on and on.
Here's the thing: none of those excuses matter. The only thing that matters is showing up. Even on the days you can think of 100 reasons not to show up, it’s important to show up.
When you do that on simple task, “magic” happens. Such as:
- It builds discipline. When you show up to the gym even when you don't feel like it, you're teaching yourself to be disciplined. This is a valuable skill that can benefit you in all areas of your life. Sometimes, life doesn’t care about how you feel. You have to show up regardless. Same thing for the gym! One of my favorite quotes is, “motivation is fleeting, DISCIPLINE is reliable. Cultivate DISCIPLINE and FORCE yourself to do things to better yourself. It isn't about keeping yourself motivated, it's about how to train yourself to work without it.”
- It boosts your mood. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. Even a short workout can make you feel better, both physically and mentally. Who doesn’t love a little dopamine boost?! You can handle the outside world better with just a little mood boost from exercising.
- It helps you achieve your goals. If you want to reach your fitness goals, you need to be consistent with your workouts. Showing up to the gym even when you don't feel like it will help you stay on track.
- It shows yourself that you're capable. When you push through a workout even when you're feeling tired or unmotivated, you're proving to yourself that you're capable of more than you thought. This can boost your self-confidence and motivation in and outside of the gym. If you can conquer those feelings in something as simple as showing up to the gym, imagine what you are capable of conquering outside of the gym.
Don’t get me wrong… there is a time and place for rest. If you’re feeling run down or sick, it’s important to listen to your body and take it easy. But if you're just feeling a little "blah," push through and get a workout in. You'll never regret showing up!
Some tips and tricks for showing up to the gym despite your feelings:
- Limit decisions. Set out your workout clothes the night before. Set multiple alarms so you don't skip one. Prep your meals the night before, etc. Limiting decisions will limit reasons to make up excuses. And (bonus) you save a little bit of time!
- Set a small goal. If you're feeling overwhelmed, start by setting a small goal for yourself, such as working out 3x this week instead of 2x. The more consistent you become, the more days you can add to your plan and the easier it is to “just show up.”
- Find a workout buddy. Having someone to work out with can help you stay motivated, even when you don't feel like it. Good news… IronFit has group classes with amazing people. You’re sure to find someone in class to keep you accountable and to have fun with!
- Focus on the benefits. Think about how good you'll feel after your workout and how close you'll be to reaching your fitness goals. Why wouldn’t you show up when the only outcome is a positive one?!
Everyone has days when they don't feel like working out. But, showing up to the gym when you don't feel like it is one of the best things you can do for your fitness and overall well-being. The beauty in our structure of the group classes is, all you have to do is show up. Don’t overthink the process. Your coaches will greet you with a smile and get you moving the moment you step foot in the gym. You’ll have fun, meet new friends, and be proud that you showed up.
One of my favorite quotes for working out is, “Exercise should be a celebration of what your body CAN do. Not punishment for what it should be.” Get out there and celebrate what your body CAN do and keep showing up to get even better!
If you need accountability in your fitness journey, reach out to us! We would love to partner you with someone to hold you accountable for showing up to the gym. All it takes is showing up.
