5 Tips to Stay Motivated While Working Out Alone
Read time: 3 minutes
Working out alone can be a challenge, believe me. While a garage gym is awesome, the major drawback is that it’s a lonely endeavor. And this definitely can knock your motivation down a notch or two at times. Unlike group workouts, where you have the support of your peers and a coach to keep you going, solo workouts can seem tedious and monotonous. But that doesn't mean you can't stay motivated and make progress towards your fitness goals. Here are some tips I use to stay motivated while working out alone:
Set realistic goals: Setting goals is essential for staying motivated. However, it's important to set realistic goals that are achievable. If your goals are too ambitious, you may end up feeling demotivated and discouraged when you don't see the results you want. So start by setting small, achievable goals and gradually work your way up. That starts with understanding where you are and what you can handle. Gone are the days where I am chasing big PRs. Now my goals look more like process-oriented goals. For instance, my biggest goal is to get five workouts in each week. Whether I crush them or not is inconsequential. And to accomplish this goal, I use Tip #2.
Create a workout schedule: One of the biggest challenges of working out alone is maintaining consistency. To overcome this, create a workout schedule and stick to it. This will help you build a routine and make working out a habit. Maybe you need set reminders on your phone or calendar to ensure you don't miss your workouts. After a while, it will become a habit just like brushing your teeth. But this doesn’t combat the loneliness of the solo workout.
Find a workout buddy virtually: Just because you're working out alone doesn't mean you can't have a workout buddy. There are several online fitness communities where you can find like-minded people to share your fitness journey with. Join a virtual workout group, start doing the same program as a friend and have check-inn calls, or hire a remote trainer to keep you accountable. Having someone to hold you accountable can make a huge difference in staying motivated.
Mix up your workouts: Doing the same workout routine day in and day out can get boring quickly. To keep things interesting, mix up your workouts by trying different exercises, equipment, or workout styles. This will challenge your body and keep you engaged. Tired of using the spin bike? Go for a run? Getting bored of specific movements? Swap them out for similar movements. Nothing in the exercise world is written in pen, it can all be modified.
Reward yourself: Finally, don't forget to reward yourself for your hard work. Set up a reward system for achieving your goals. It could be anything…treating yourself to a new workout outfit, buying a new piece of equipment, or getting a nice meal out on the town. Celebrating your achievements will keep you motivated and make the whole process more enjoyable.
Working out alone may seem daunting at times, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can stay motivated and reach your fitness goals. Remember to start small, create a routine, find a workout buddy, mix up your workouts, and reward yourself for your hard work. By doing so, you'll stay motivated and make progress towards a healthier, fitter you.
