Even the most motivated among us have days where we just don’t feel like working out. It’s totally okay to feel that way occasionally. Sometimes there’s a good reason, such as you’re feeling unwell or exhausted. If that’s the case, take the day off and catch up on rest and sleep.

If it’s more that you just don’t feel like it, can’t be bothered or have other things you’d prefer to do (such as lie on the couch) then ask yourself this: What’s your end goal and how are you going to reach it? Just that thought often helps me get from the TV to training! Here are a few other tips to help you get moving on those more lethargic days:

🔸Remind yourself of your end goal. Perhaps you’re working on improving your fitness, running a 5k or perhaps lifting a certain weight. Picture achieving it and the accomplishment you’ll feel. Consistency is always key in getting there!

🔸Don’t rely on motivation. Rely on habit and routine. If you wait to feel motivated you could be waiting for weeks. Instead, just decide to stick to your routine/plan (I write my weekly plan or on Sunday evenings).

🔸Put your workout clothes on. That takes no effort and once you have them on you’re way more likely to get moving, even if it’s just a walk around the block.

🔸Choose three songs to listen to, or a podcast. Tell yourself that you’ll work out for the duration of them.

🔸Pick something you like doing e.g jump rope or walking, and do ten minutes of it. Anyone can do ten minutes and the chances are high that you’ll carry on after those ten minutes. When I lack motivation I do ten mins of arm weights and planks, or run over mile, and then reassess. 99% of the time I keep going.

🔸If you can predict that you’ll feel like this on an certain day (this is me on a Friday), plan to attend a gym class or meet a friend to workout together.

How do you ensure that you stay on track with your goals and don’t skip workouts?