Five Ways to Fight Workout Blues             

Losing steam every time you try to hit the gym? Often, you can create success by changing your state of mind. Here are five ways to fight those workout blahs, get motivated and get moving.

1. How you’re feeling: “I’ll never reach my goal, it’s too far away.”

You can make big progress by starting with small changes. For example, did you know that if you start walking as little as five minutes more every day, you could lose up to a quarter of an inch off your waist without dieting?  

2. How you’re feeling: “Cardio is the worst.”

If you think cardio is boring and monotonous, try switching up your routine to include circuits. Alternate one-minute sets of upper- and lower-body exercises with weights, resting for 30 seconds in between.

3. How you’re feeling: “My routine is boring.”

A recent study showed that speeding up your routine with interval training can help you stay interested and engaged. You can also try changing your music—or joining a fitness event near you.

4. How you’re feeling: “I just don’t have the energy.”

Even a little bit of exercise can help you have more energy. A University of Georgia study found that people who do low-impact bike exercises a few times a week got a bigger boost of energy than people who did no exercise at all.

5. How you’re feeling: “Something always interferes with my workout time.”

If you’re constantly disrupted and derailed when you try to exercise, try creating a written workout plan. Research shows that people who set specific goals for themselves and schedule their gym time have a better chance of success.