Forming healthy habits is one of the best ways to ensure success in the gym, but it can take time to turn them into fixed behaviours. So, if you want to reach your long-term goals, you'll need a bit of discipline and patience.
It's totally normal to feel your motivation dip after a few weeks, but don't worry. Here are a few helpful tips to help you keep it going and make your habits stick.
The importance of developing healthy habits in your workout
When hitting the gym, no one wants to go in half-hearted or not reach their goals within their desired timeframe. Adding healthy habits to your workout can ensure that every bit of hard work counts, and that you're going full steam towards reaching your goals.
Setting clear habits can also help keep you on track, motivated, and ensure that you're putting in as much effort as you can every session.
10 habits to improve your workout
We've put together 10 habits that can help improve your workout. Remember, forming new habits can take time, but sticking with these tips will pay off in the long run.
1. Be flexible
Sometimes things come up and you need to adjust your workout schedule. It's OK to move your workout to a different time or day. If you're stuck for time, try splitting your session across the day or even across different days of the week.
2. Exercise with a workout partner or in a group
There’s nothing like spending time with a good friend. So why not work out while doing it? Training with a friend or group of friends can help you commit and make working out a long-term habit. Plus, adding a social element to your workout can help boost your mental wellbeing.
3. Choose fun workouts
Working hard doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. The more you enjoy your workouts, the more likely you are to make them a regular part of your life. If you're not enjoying a new exercise, switch it up for something else.
You can also mix up the time you train. If you're not a morning person, train in the evening. And if you’re an early riser, train when you wake up. It's all about finding what works for you and makes you happy.
4. Set realistic goals
Challenge yourself, but make sure your goals are achievable. You may want to eventually run a marathon, but it may take a little longer than three months if you’re just starting out.
Get advice from a friend or gym personal trainer to help set realistic goals and manage your expectations.
5. Start small and progress later
It's easy to get carried away when starting out, but this can lead to injury. Assess your fitness levels and build up gradually.
Set smaller goals and shorter workouts, then add more complex exercises and additional sessions as you gain confidence. By progressively gradually in this way, you’ll see results that are both sustainable and lasting.
6. Always feel comfortable
Wearing comfortable workout clothes and shoes can make a big difference in how you feel during and after your workout. Feeling good in what you're wearing can help boost your confidence and motivation.
Need to get yourself some confidence-boosting workout gear? Check outMP Activewear.
And for some more confidence tips, have a look through our gymtimidation guide.
7. Never forget your rest day
Rest days are just as important as workout days. They allow your body to recover and repair so you can come back stronger for your next session. Skipping rest days can lead to slow results and injuries.
Good sleep is also crucial for mental and physical recovery. Make sure you're getting enough so you can come back to your next session harder and better.
8. Switch up your workout
The best training programmes change things up every 4-6 weeks. If you're getting bored with the same routine, try a new movement or take up a class to add some excitement.
This way, you’ll constantly be challenging yourself with new things, so you’re more likely to stay committed.
9. Reward yourself
Setting short-term goals that lead to your long-term goal is a great way to stay on track. Reward yourself for hitting small, frequent goals to keep yourself motivated. This can be anything from a favourite meal, some new gym gear, or even a spa day. It’s important to not focus on the end goal but to celebrate the small wins on the way there.
10. Unhealthy workouts habits you should avoid
We all fall into bad habits from time to time, but it's important to avoid certain ones as much as you can when it comes to working out. Some habits can have a negative impact on your workouts in the long run.To ensure you're getting the most out of your workouts, try to avoid:
- Skipping rest days
- Not warming up or cooling down
- Not fuelling your body properly — this could mean cutting calories too low or avoiding certain food groups
- Setting unrealistic expectations and goals
- Overtraining
- Having too many cheat meals — no food is off limits, but try to make sure you're eating within your macros
- Not getting enough sleep between workouts
Take Home Message
Forming new habits takes time. So be patient with yourself and allow yourself time to learn and adapt.
Set realistic goals for yourself, celebrate the small wins, and keep pushing yourself to learn and improve while having fun. Before you know it, you'll be setting healthy habits and on the way to achieving your goals.
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Our articles should be used for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be taken as medical advice. If you're concerned, consult a health professional before taking dietary supplements or introducing any major changes to your diet.
