How to stay consistent with working out?
A lot of us have probably started bodybuilding a million times and bailed on it after a few weeks or months. The problem is that we can’t keep on hanging to the enthusiasm and will we feel at the very beginning. At first enrolling to a gym, following a workout plan and the dream of having a perfect body is all too exciting, but as time goes on, the sore muscles and the lack of passion or even time, start to gradually kick in! That’s when instead of sticking to our workout routine we give up. But if you’re a bodybuilder you must know that you’ll never achieve your goals if you don’t keep on working out regularly and according to a routine. Bodybuilding is a process and nothing happens overnight! That is why consistency in working out is the number one rule of bodybuilding. In this passage we are trying to help you understand what are the obstacles that stop you from working out regularly and how you can get rid of them. So if you want to learn how to stay consistent with working out, don’t miss out on the rest of this passage!
Taking a closer look at the obstacles
To solve an issue we first need to understand what causes it to happen. That is why we first need to take a closer look at the obstacles that stop bodybuilders from having consistency in working out. So let’s see what can keep you off track:
The time crunch
One of the biggest challenges in staying consistent with working out and bodybuilding is finding enough time to do so! Between work, university, family, school and our other responsibilities it is hard to find time to hit the gym. That’s why it can feel like there’s no room left for working out. However, if you schedule your daily tasks reasonably and do a little bit of planning and prioritizing this obstacle is nothing you can’t overcome.
Not feeling enough motivated
Bodybuilding is a time consuming process and the road towards your goals can sometimes feel like a never-ending path! Some days getting yourself to the gym seems like too much to handle and no matter how hard you search, you can’t find the motivation within you! This is often because you’re only looking at the big picture and missing out on the small progress you are making. You become a better version of yourself each and every day. So to motivate yourself better, try to set small goals. Then, achieving them can give you the sense of success and the will to keep moving forward. So to have consistency in working out you need to set small goals and appreciate yourself for the progress you’re making.
Pushing yourself a little too hard
A lot of bodybuilders make the mistake of overdoing things. Pushing yourself too hard can lead to serious injuries, endless tiredness and even unfavorable results. You need to work out and keep going forward at your own pace. That is why each and every person needs their own bodybuilding program which is designed by their own physic, capabilities and strengths. Never overdo stuff or push your body too hard. If you’re trying to stay consistent with working out listening to your body and finding balance between pushing your limits and giving yourself enough time to recover is really important. Ask for a trainer’s help to guide you towards your goals, that is the only way to protect yourself from getting harmed or leaving the track towards your goals.
Your own state of mind
Your mind can sometimes be your biggest enemy. It is a well-known fact that our biggest obstacles are often made in our own heads. One of the things that stops bodybuilders from being consistent with working out is the fear of failure. Another problem is with feeling self-conscious at the gym, thinking that everyone in the room is judging our workout style. We can sometimes even convince ourselves that we are too tired or busy to hit the gym. So for staying consistent with working out first you need to work on your mindset. Don’t let your own mind trick you into something against your goals.
Staying on track; Tips for staying consistent with working out
Here are some tips to help you stay consistent with your workout plans:
- Set small realistic goals
The feeling of achieving a goal can increase your motivation and help you stay on track. That is why you need to set achievable and specific goals to help you feel motivated and not give up on your routine. Whether it is lifting a specific weight or running a certain distance, having a clear goal provides enough insight and lets you keep the focus you need.
- Create a workout routine
How can we make workouts a habit? Start small and gradually increase duration and intensity. Consistency is key, even short workouts are better than none.
For bodybuilding and working out to become an inseparable part of your day to day life you need to create a schedule and stick to that no matter what. Look at going to the gym like any other appointment and schedule it in advance. Ask for a trainers help to provide you with a workout routine for each week or month. Do not forget that consistency in bodybuilding is the key to success.
- Find a workout buddy
Having a friend to workout with you can make a big difference. You’re much less likely to skip a workout session if someone else is keeping track of your schedule and counting up the sessions. It can also make your experience in the gym a lot more pleasant and motivate you to move toward your goals.
- Don’t forget the variety
Mixing things up a bit can prevent you from feeling bored. Variety in your workout routine can keep things fresh and help you stay enthusiastic. You can even apply this rule to your diet. Include different workout moves and exercises in your plan and mix them up and change them from time to time.
- Keep track of your progress
Bodybuilding is a process and nothing happens overnight. That is why you might stay absolutely clueless about the progress you’ve already made if you don’t keep track of it. So what can be done?
Take mirror selfies each week and compare them at the end of the month to be amazed by how far along you’ve came. Keep track of your weight, body fat mass and even your exercise routine.
- Give yourself a reward
How can I reward myself? Celebrate your successes! A new outfit, massage, or healthy meal can be great motivators.
You need to acknowledge your accomplishments. Setting a reward system for reaching your goals can be incredibly helpful for staying consistent with working out. This can be a small prize like a cheat meal, a new workout outfit, a day off to relax or whatever you feel is best for you. This can provide that little extra push that keeps you on track.
- Listen to your body
How can a workout buddy help? A friend can provide encouragement and accountability, making skipping workouts less likely.
Your body is what enables you to move towards perfection. So appreciate it, listen to it and don’t push it too hard. A well-balanced workout routine which gives rest equal importance as exercise is what helps you stay on track with bodybuilding. Make sure you’re giving your body enough time to recover. Rest days are the main key of staying away from injuries and it helps you keep feeling fresh and ready to tackle your next workout.
Final words
Even short, regular workouts are more effective than sporadic bursts of intense exercise. Embrace the journey, celebrate your progress, and watch your fitness goals become a natural part of your life.
