1. Buy new workout gear
What if I told you that your new gym habit would allow you to shop more? Well, its true! It’s time to upgrade your vintage, highschool yoga pant collection to something well, more modern and with less holes. Treat yourself to lululemon or athleta and start your fitness journey.
Set a goal for yourself, such as losing a pound per week and when you crush that goal reward yourself with another sports bra or cute workout tank.
2. Recruit a workout partner
Going to the gym will be so much easier and more fun if you have a gym buddy to hold you accountable. Just think how fun the elliptical will be when you have someone to talk wine, men and tv with. Hell, you two can even complain about being at the gym but at least you are there.
3. Download new music
Music is an absolute motivator. Download Spotify and crank up the tunes. Create different length playlists that will give you that extra push during your cardio session or infamous leg day. Word on the street is T.Swift’s new album is perfect for the gym, so feel free to start there.
4. Try a class
Signing up for a spin class or body pump class holds you accountable especially when there is money on the line. A spin class is a great place to start. Classes traditionally are about 45 minutes long and are all about that heart pounding cardio. Sounds scary but honestly it’s a blast. The instructors turn off all the lights and blare top-40 remixes that make you want to dance.
5. Unwind with some “me” time
Historically, “me” time might look something like you on the couch with some Pinot Noir. But it’s time to upgrade. Promise yourself 30 minutes to decompress at the gym. The sweat and endorphins will recharge you and make you feel like a million bucks. No one ever wants to work out but how many times have you regretted afterwards?
6. Make it a habit
We are all creatures of habit. Commit to going to the gym for a month, 4x a week. Once the month is up I can guarantee your week won’t feel the same without your newfound gym time. It’s called creating a habit people, a healthy one at that.
Be sure to go to the gym when it suits you. If you hate going after work then try the morning. If that doesn’t work for you then try to go on your lunch break. Stop making excuses and start creating a new healthy habit.
7. Pay extra for a better gym
No one can blame you if you don’t want to go the dirty gym down the street even if it is convenient and only $10 a month. If going to a more luxurious gym, with free classes, personal training options and a juice bar is more your scene then treat yourself to the extra monthly expense. The extra money you spend is worth it when you start shedding those unwanted lbs.
8. Think of the gym as an untapped resource to meet the man of your dreams
If you are sick of fantasizing about the young, toned, Ryan Gosling type then go out and find him. Chances are he isn’t at the taqueria you frequent after work. He’s most likely getting his swole on at the gym. Hop on the stair master and scope out your future bae. Even if he is gay or taken, eye candy is always a good motivator.
9. Change your mindset
When you stop viewing the gym as a place of punishment and more like a palace of power you will never second guess going again. Remind yourself why you are there and you will always find an excuse to go.
10. Bring your best friend: Netflix
Finally, an excuse to binge watch American Horror Story and not feel guilty about it. Watch two episodes of Bob’s Burgers at the gym and watch the time fly by not to mention the calories. You’re welcome.
