Getting motivated to exercise isn’t always easy. Some days you just don’t feel like moving. And that’s okay—we’ve all been there! Whether it’s early morning or after a long day at work, finding the drive to get started is the hardest part.
So, how do you get motivated to exercise and actually enjoy it? Let’s break it down in super simple steps.
1. Start with a Morning Workout (if possible)
Exercising in the morning can be a game-changer. It wakes up your body, boosts your mood, and keeps your energy up throughout the day. Plus, once it’s done, you don’t have to worry about it later!
A study even showed that working out before breakfast can help burn more fat.
And let’s be honest—after work, it’s easy to get distracted by dinner, chores, or just being tired. So getting it done in the morning means it’s done!
2. Book It Like an Appointment
Don’t leave it to chance. Treat your workout like any other important meeting.
- Pick a day and time.
- Lay out your clothes and shoes the night before.
Once it’s scheduled, it’s much easier to show up. And if it’s on your calendar, you’re more likely to make it happen.
3. Tell Someone Your Plans
Let your friends or family know when you plan to work out. You can even post about it on social media. Telling others makes you more likely to follow through—and they might even cheer you on!
- Bonus: Some people get inspired and join you!
4. Move Your Alarm Clock
If you’re trying to work out in the morning but struggle to wake up, try this:
- Put your alarm across the room.
Now you’ll have to get up to turn it off—and you’re already one step closer to your workout.
5. Find a Workout Buddy
Having someone waiting for you makes it harder to skip. Ask a friend, join a small group class, or work with a personal trainer.
- Accountability = Motivation.
Even texting your buddy “Done!” after your workout feels great.
6. Use Music to Pump You Up
Create a playlist that makes you feel good. Fast beats, fun lyrics—whatever works for you.
- Music boosts energy and makes workouts more fun.
It’s hard to sit still when your favorite song is playing, right?
7. Plan a Reward
Set a small goal and reward yourself when you reach it.
- Maybe it’s a new workout shirt, a fun activity, or a smoothie after your workout.
When you have something to look forward to, getting through your workout feels easier.
8. Make Breakfast Part of Your Motivation
If you’re working out in the morning, think about your post-workout breakfast.
- Maybe it’s scrambled eggs, Greek yogurt, or a smoothie with fruit and protein.
Knowing there’s a tasty, healthy meal waiting for you can help you get moving.
9. Find Your Real Reason (Your “Why”)
Ask yourself: Why do I want to work out?
Is it to:
- Feel stronger?
- Lose weight?
- Have more energy for your kids?
- Stay healthy as you age?
Knowing your “why” helps keep you focused when your motivation drops.
Tip: Picture how you’ll feel when you reach your goal—happy, confident, proud.
10. Make It Easy to Start
If you’re struggling to get going, tell yourself: “I’ll just do 10 minutes.”
More often than not, once you start, you’ll want to keep going.
- Getting started is the hardest part—but once you do, the rest feels easier.
More Simple Ideas to Try
Here are a few other ways to build motivation into your day:
- Only wash your hair on workout days (fun trick!)
- Keep your workout shoes visible—like near the door
- Write down how you feel after each workout
- Sign up for a class in advance so you feel committed
- Mix things up—dance one day, go for a walk the next
Don’t Forget the Power of Personal Training
At Basics and Beyond fitness & nutrition, we help people just like you stay on track. A personal trainer doesn’t just teach exercises—they help you build habits that stick.
- One-on-one guidance
- Motivation when you’re low
- A plan that fits your life
If you need help getting started or want someone to keep you consistent, reach out to us! We offer both in-person and online training.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to wait for motivation to magically show up. Motivation comes after you start moving—not before. The key is to take that first step, even if it’s small.
So grab your shoes. Turn up the music. Set a timer for 10 minutes.
And remember—you’re doing something great for yourself!
Need help getting started? Get in touch with Basics and Beyond fitness & nutrition. We’ll help you find the plan, the support, and the motivation to make this the time it finally sticks.