When it starts to get dark early and that nice t-shirt weather suddenly disappears, you’ve reached the time of year responsible for a lot of people taking their foot off the gas. Gyms become emptier (great for people like you and I) and less people are on your regular running route. As winter time and more importantly, the festive season rapidly approaches, I wanted to share a few tips that keep me motivated and active throughout what many describe as the ‘off season’.
Keep your goal in mind
This is probably one of the main reasons people fall off. They lose sight of the goal they made way back in summer. Having an goal or a ‘why’ is the biggest reason to keep up the great work and not fall back into bad habits. It’s an easy time to fall off the track you have worked so hard to stay on, but if your reason is big enough, you will find a way to keep going!
Don’t cut yourself out
People think that the only way to stay on the right track to getting fit and healthy is by taking themselves out of most social situations and becoming a hermit. It’s all in the preparation and moderation. More importantly, not feeling regretful when you do eat more then you should have or drank a few too many. Dwelling on mistakes helps no one. Let it go and jump right back in!
Prepare for big meals
During the festive season the thing everyone loves doing is eating! If you love food as much as I do then you probably enjoy the occasional ‘overeating session’. The way I deal with this is by making sure I hit the gym or complete my run before I go to that meal or event. Also try and eat more protein rather then over-carbing or too much fat. Protein will fill you up quicker and actually stop your eating rampage. Plus, who says no to more protein?
Understand it’s your race
At the end of the day, you are on this fitness journey for you! Whether you want to add muscle, cut fat, prepare for your next race; the ultimate goal comes down to you being in control. Don’t listen to naysayers and commit to doing something that everyone will applaud you for in the future. Don’t use other people as a measure for your success. Focus how you can be a better version of you.
Enjoy the ride
Do the thing you enjoy most. This will ultimately keep you doing it longer. Don’t be afraid to change things up from time to time so that you don’t get bored and so that your fitness journey remains at its most exciting!
Will any of these tips help you stay motivated? What do you do to stay motivated? Let me know by commenting below
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