Six Ways to Push Through Tough Workouts

Progress over perfection.

How do you get yourself into the proper & positive mindset necessary to push through a tough workout?

Anticipate Success

Make a plan that is achievable but still challenges you. Think ahead through any obstacles you may face and how you plan to push through toward personal growth.

Remember that success does not necessarily mean that you completed 100% of your goal, it can also mean that you gave 100% of your effort! And that’s huge!

Set Realistic Goals

Big, bold, and audacious goals are absolutely amazing, BUT sometimes it’s important to break down your workouts into smaller, more achievable targets.

At times, it may be important to focus on just getting through the next set of bicep curls versus completing that new YouTube workout you’ve been stalking... maybe one more block versus one more mile on your walk... When the time is right & your mindset is right, you’ll get it done!

Check In with Yourself

When a client or class attendee noticeably or audibly winces, grunts, or groans, I’ll check in to ask how they’re doing. I’ll say something like, “are you in pain, or are you working?” By this, I’m trying to find out if some part of their body is physically hurting or if they are pushing themselves toward the next level.

They can only answer this question if they are in tune with & listening to their bodies. So check in and get comfortable with yourself in order to grow.

Talk Nicely to Yourself

Positive self-talk is quite necessary and will come in handy. There will be moments when you will question everyTHANG, want to pack it up, and leave! That’s when you remind yourself of how capable you are and worthy of creating your healthiest & happiest self.

Focus on shifting those negative thoughts into positive ones, allowing you to push through versus stopping.

Workout Buddy & Good Music

Never underestimate the power of a good workout buddy. Having someone by your side to push you to the next level, spot you, hold you accountable, and even laugh with you, is top-notch! Talk about motivation in real-time!

Now, good music is my jam (pun intended)! I can’t even say that I stick to one particular genre of music, I just choose songs and beats that match my vibe on that day or during that workout session. Music has the ability to help us celebrate good times and support us through tough ones. Find your rhythm and LOCK IN!

Reward Yourself

Set up a reward system to celebrate yourself as you hit milestones or mini-goals. Having something to look forward to can boost your motivation and make the effort feel more worthwhile.

These “rewards” don’t have to be expensive gifts or treats, unless that’s what motivates you. Rewarding yourself may be a relaxing bubble bath, watching an episode of your new favorite tv series, enjoying a special meal at a restaurant you’ve been wanting to try, or perhaps even new workout clothes!

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One of the main things to remember is that you should always strive for progress over perfection. Show yourself some grace. If today (or today’s workout) didn’t go quite as planned, just start again… keep showing up!