Have you ever just woken up one day and thought to yourself, “I want to do better, I want to get into a workout routine I love, but how the heckinbob do I do that?” Me too man, I go through this about once a month if I ever fall off my routine or just want change, and what you need to know is that it is ok to start over. For the past few years I’ve been trying different workout routines that I just didn’t love because I felt like I was forcing myself into it. Recently, I’ve been finding a balance that works for me and that I actually enjoy.

A lot of the time when you think about getting fit and working out, you think, “I have to do a five day workout split to really get results.” As there is truth to that, a lot of the time that’s just not how it is or you build your way up to that. Being fit and in shape can look different to a lot of people based on what their goals are. For example I enjoy weight lifting 3-4 days a week and the other days I skateboard, snowboard, or go for walks or runs. Your workout routine should be customized to you and what you enjoy. This will prevent less burnout in the long run.

Alright let’s actually break down the steps to help you get into a workout routine you love..

Assess your fitness goals

Figure out and write down what you want out of your fitness goals for example, muscle growth, fat loss, to feel better, to get outside etc. Each area of fitness or the goals you want to achieve can look very different each day depending on your goals. If you want to grow muscle you need to weight train 3-5 days a week, if you want to lose fat you need to add some cardio, if you want to just feel better overall make time during your day to get in some extra walking and other activities you love. By assessing your goals you can start to think about how to fit these into your daily schedule or even swap things during the day like walking somewhere instead of driving.

Self discipline

A lot of the times when you start a new workout routine you are super motivated the first week or so, then your motivation can take its own down curve. That is why you should never rely on motivation and start to focus on self discipline. Self discipline comes into play when you become tired or start to feel lazy. When this happens you have to think about your goals and why you started this workout routine and fitness journey in the first place.

 The true key is to just start what you are dreading. For example you wake up in the morning and are just not feeling like a workout, (some days it’s ok to take time for yourself to rest always listen to your body) you can either decide to let the laziness eat you alive, or you just get up right away and start putting your workout clothes on and make a yummy breakfast or coffee before you head out. The second you step out your door half the battle is won. You know in your head that the workout will make you feel better and will provide you with more energy for the day.

Confidence

Starting a routine can be intimidating because you are new to it. The cool thing about trying new things is that you get to know these new skills with experience and build more confidence. The first time I walked into a gym I wanted to poop my pants. I thought everyone was staring at me for my form, what I was wearing, how I walked, you name it. What I’ve realized over some time is that a lot of people feel this way and are on the same boat. No one is comfortable with something until they keep trying it. Also, no one cares what you are doing, they are focused on themselves. If you don’t know how to use a machine or if you don’t think your form is right, just ask someone or look up videos before your workout. Whenever I am unsure about my form I turn to Ryan Read’s instagram and there is tons of info on the correct form.

If you just want to get outside more and maybe go on more runs, walks, or hikes research the area you’re going and be prepared with the right gear and protective items, oh and always have your favorite playlist on hand. Fitness comes in many forms, so just try what interests you, start small, and keep learning everyday.

Make it fun

The only way to enjoy yourself and your workout is to find ways to make it fun. I blast my favorite jams, wear my favorite gym fits and dance/take pictures of myself at the gym. I enjoy posting myself on my Instagram stories at the gym because I can only hope to inspire and motivate others or simply put a smile on their face with my odd dancing. This is what makes working out fun for me and the thought of doing something for myself and putting myself first. Your way of making it fun might be different, maybe you are excited to see your gym crush or excited to get some vitamin D outside, or even tasting your favorite pre workout. Do what you wanna do and rock the sh*t out of it. No one is you and that’s your power so make things fun.

Point blank period..

The fact that you are reading this and want to better yourself shows much you care about yourself and I think that is absolutely amazing. That is the ultimate first step when starting to get into a workout routine is realizing you want better for yourself. Just take each step with a grain of salt and as time goes on you will be a bag of sugar. Do some research and do this for you. You are awesome and swaggy.