9 Workout Motivation Tips That Keep You Accountable
by Autumn Jones
You can wish with all your might, but a magical workout genie won't appear with a pep talk to get you psyched about going to the gym. Although that would be incredibly cool and motivating.
You don't need a genie to stay consistent with exercising — you just need some workout motivation tips that actually keep you accountable. While it's great to have a workout buddy as an exercise partner, you can do this yourself, too!
These nine motivational tips will keep you at the top of your accountability game and have you rocking all your goals.
1. Write It Down
Taking the time to get specific and define your goals allows you to determine what you really want to get out of your workout routine. Make a list and revisit it every few months to evaluate where you're at, what you'd like to change, and what's working.
2. Post Your Goals
One of the best workout motivation tips is to post a list of your fitness goals somewhere you'll see it every day. Your bathroom mirror, office desk, or social media profiles are good places to start. Every time you see your goals, you'll be reminded of what you need to do in order to reach them.
3. Set Milestones and Celebrate Them
Your hard work deserves a pat on the back (or a celebratory slice of pizza). Planet Fitness acknowledges that a healthy lifestyle includes balance, which is why we offer members free pizza on the first Monday of every month. If a cheesy slice isn't your thing, find a way to celebrate your fitness success that speaks to you — seeing a fun movie or snagging a new pair of athletic shoes are some other rewards that provide motivation.
4. Sign Up for a Fitness Event
When you sign up for a 5K or bicycle race, you keep yourself accountable by preparing to participate. Knowing there is a culminating event in the near future means you can give yourself checkpoints along the way, which will help you stay on track with your goals.
5. Keep a Fitness Journal
If you really want to measure the good work you're putting in at the gym, toss a pen and notebook into your gym bag or download a fitness tracking app. Keeping a record of how long you worked out — and what you did — at the gym allows you to see how far you've come since you began your fitness journey.
6. Use Visualizations
Visualizing the accomplishment of your goals is a trick that's helped top athletes reach elite levels (but you don't have to be an elite athlete to benefit from using their techniques).As Sports Psychology Today explains, "By visualizing success, you program your subconscious to move towards success." This means you can condition yourself to achieve your goals by repeatedly picturing your desired outcome.
7. Keep Your Bag Packed
Having a gym bag at the ready means there's one less thing to slow you down when you are heading to your fitness club. Keep your gym bag stocked with the essentials: a water bottle, socks, athletic shoes, workout outfit, and anything you may need post-workout (like deodorant and a change of clothes).
8. Make a New Playlist
There's nothing like a fresh set of tunes to keep you moving and grooving through a workout. Download a playlist with high-energy songs, your favorite podcast, or an engrossing audiobook to stay motivated during your sweat session.
9. Try Group Fitness
Some of the best workout motivation tips get you out of your comfort zone. Try mixing up your workouts to stay excited about exercising. Instead of doing your usual solo workout, consider signing up for a small group training session.
As always, please consult with a physician prior to beginning any exercise program. See full medical disclaimer here.