Losing motivation? How to get over an exercise slump.

We all lose motivation from time to time. Understanding why this is happening can help you move through this phase and empower you to participate in and enjoy exercise again. To help you with this self-discovery process we have three tips for overcoming your slump and finding your motivation for fitness once again.

Switch things up

One of the most common reasons for a loss of motivation is boredom. If you have been doing the same fitness routine for a lengthy period of time and you rarely vary the exercises, it can start to feel monotonous.

Switching up your exercises can give you an immediate dose of motivation.  Try a workout you have always been curious about but have never tried, perform your exercises in a different order, or try exercising at a different time of day.

Find a friend

Sometimes, working out on your own can become lonely. For example, if you are heading to the gym every day by yourself, you might start to find it difficult to motivate yourself to get out of the door.

Finding a workout buddy can be a very effective way to regain your motivation. It turns fitness and working out into a social activity. You and your friend can hold each other accountable and motivate one another to reach your goals.

Take a break

Sometimes, the best way to recharge your motivation is by taking a break. Although this might sound counterintuitive, exercise slumps can also be caused by over-training. Over-exercising without sufficient rest taxes our bodies, puts us at risk of injury and can plateau our progress towards goals. Try taking a short break from your regular work out and see how you feel both mentally and physically. If refraining from exercise entirely seems too difficult, try a new, lower-intensity workout such as yoga or swimming, or an activity you have never tried before to help reignite your love of exercise.