“Your workout is our warm-up!”
“Grip it and rip it!”
“We don’t need machines; we are machines!”
We’ve all heard these sayings, right? Maybe you’ve seen them on gym walls, T-shirts, or your social feed—all shouting that workouts should be intense, that you should leave it all out there. I’ve said them myself and believed them, too. But let’s be honest: that mindset isn’t always helpful, and it’s definitely not what everyone needs, especially now.
Life is stressful enough. Between work, home life, remote schooling, endless news cycles, and missing loved ones, the last thing many of us need is to push ourselves to the brink in a workout. Exercise is amazing for both body and mind, but it’s still a stressor. If your plate is already overflowing, don’t feel bad if an all-out workout isn’t what you’re up for.
And here’s the thing: not every workout has to be hardcore to count. Doing half your usual effort still counts. Just warming up and calling it a day still counts. It’s all about showing up and doing something.
Lately, I’ve talked to so many people who are struggling to stay motivated—even people who normally love working out. Honestly, I get it. I own a gym, and I’ve been struggling, too. So if you’re feeling this way, know that it’s normal, and you’re definitely not alone.
Instead of focusing on hitting big goals, try reframing your reason for training. Maybe it’s just about moving your body, taking some time for yourself, or connecting with someone else. Even a little exercise can be a win. You don’t have to push to the limit for it to matter.
If you’re stuck or feeling unmotivated, here are some ideas to get you moving:
1. Exercise in the Morning
Starting your day with exercise when your willpower is strongest can make a big difference. Get it done before the day takes over.
2. Pick Easier Workouts
Three rounds of 10 push-ups and sit-ups? That’s a workout. Watching a show while moving? Absolutely counts. Choose things you enjoy. Make it fun. Training doesn’t always have to be about improving weaknesses or crushing goals.
3. Try a Simple Workout Grid
Draw a grid on a piece of paper, like tic-tac-toe. Pick a movement (push-ups, squats, whatever). Do a set while you’re watching TV or chatting. Write the number in the grid. Rest. Repeat when you’re ready. Before you know it, you’ve done a full workout.
4. Do a 12-Minute EMOM (Every Minute, On the Minute)
- Minute 1: Squats
- Minute 2: Push-ups
- Minute 3: Lunges
- Minute 4: Plank
Work for 20 seconds each minute and rest for the other 40. Quick, simple, and effective.
5. Train with Someone
If you live with someone, team up for a workout. Accountability helps. If not, try training outside with a friend (weather permitting) or video call someone and exercise together. You don’t even have to do the same workout.
There’s enough going on in the world to weigh us down. Don’t add to it by being hard on yourself about exercise. Just aim to move, even if it’s a little. If today doesn’t happen, no worries—try again tomorrow.
If you need help getting started let me know and I can help!
