Motivation will either make or break your fitness journey. After all, your mind is the most powerful tool at your disposal. 

Unfortunately, it’s very easy to let your motivation levels slide, even when you start the process with great intentions. Knowing how to stay motivated in the immediate and long-term future is vital. Here’s all you need to know. 

#1. Look the part

Look good, feel food. It’s the easiest message to remember and its impact cannot be underestimated. First and foremost, you must choose the right footwear for whatever activity you are completing. However, the choice of attire is vital too. A specialist independent rugby shop, for example, will enable you to hit the training field feeling more confident than ever. Showing the love of your team can also encourage you to get out for your runs.

#2. Use rewards

Unless you are a professional athlete, you can afford to restore some balance to your life. There is little point in building a better body if you are unable to enjoy the benefits it brings. When hitting targets, you can set up rewards ranging from vacations to days out watching your team. Even when the benefits are fitness-related, they can spur you on. When motivation slips, the thought of the beach or new shirt is the difference maker.

#3. Plan an event

Saying that you want to run a half marathon is one thing. But actually setting your sights on a date is something entirely different. Most people respond well to deadlines as it gives them both the carrot and the stick. You won’t be able to keep missing sessions. In return, though, the satisfaction of completing the event when it arrives is incredible. Signing up for an event that gives you six months to train should work well.

#4. Compete against friends

Adding a competitive nature to your fitness strategy should inspire you to work harder and more consistently. Nobody wants to let their friends win. You can grab fitness Apps to track your progress and see who performs better. Of course, sporting activities like playing tennis against each other can be very rewarding too. Even when you lose, the continued progress makes you a winner. And this will translate to long-term motivation.

#5. Integrate it into your life

When exercise isn’t convenient, you will soon give it up. The harsh reality is that you will sacrifice the gym long before quitting a job or relationship. Therefore, integrating workouts into your schedule so that it can encourage better results is vital. When done well, regular exercise will enhance all aspects of your world. Once this happens, workouts become a hobby rather than a chore. And you won’t look back.

#6. Make it fun

Last but not least, you must ensure that fitness remains fun at all times. If you actively dread sessions, you will start to drop them from your schedule. Once this process starts, the situation will only move in one direction. Whether it’s finding a sport, exploring your favourite places on bicycle, or something else doesn’t matter. Happiness is the greatest motivational tool. Enjoy the journey, and the destination will be even better.