How To Stay Motivated To Exercise (Plus My Top Apps For Home Workouts)
Exercise has been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember. It has helped me through some very dark times. I exercise daily and use it for mental and physical health. I understand that only some people are naturally drawn to or motivated to exercise. So, here are three tips for getting started and staying motivated to exercise.
Tip #1: Have A Plan
My first tip for staying motivated to exercise is to have a plan. I’d suggest that anyone beginning a new exercise routine take time to plan it in advance. This tip is essential because if a person walks into a gym without a plan, especially as a beginner, they may wander around, not knowing what to do, and end up frustrated and leaving.
You can do this by simply identifying which areas you want to focus on and listing exercises targeting that area. This includes noting whether you wish to improve your cardio, speed, or endurance. Research exercises that will help improve these areas. You can look online or even download an app to find ideas.
Tip #2: Do Something You Enjoy
My next tip is to do exercises that you enjoy. Exercise can be fun, and you should enjoy your exercise activities. With so many different workouts to choose from, there is no reason a person should be stuck doing something they hate. I have seen it repeatedly: a person will say they don’t like exercising, but once they find something they enjoy, they can’t stop doing it.
Tip #3: Have A Purpose
My final but most important tip is to have a purpose. Purpose creates passion; if you have a purpose for exercising, you will likely stick to it. Before you start your next workout, sit down and identify your purpose for working out. Is it to lose weight? Is it to get fit enough to run a race? Is it to fight a disease? These are examples of purpose, and reflecting on your purpose daily will motivate you to stick to your exercise routine.
My Top Apps For Home Workouts
As someone who works out at home ninety-nine percent of the time, I am always looking for ways to change up my workouts while keeping them effective. Over the years, I have tried countless workout apps, and today, I wanted to share some of the best ones I’ve found for working out at home.
*Disclaimer: These apps and the workouts they include may not be suitable for everyone; please check with your doctor before starting a new workout routine.
The Sweat App
The Sweat App is my all-time favorite, and I have used it for over ten years. I always find myself returning to it because it offers so many different workout programs, including strength training, HIIT, Pilates, Barre, pregnancy-focused workouts, and more. All are led by different Sweat Trainers. I am currently in my 10th week of the low-impact strength training program. This app can be found in the App Store and costs 19.99 a month with a subscription.
(My Referral Link: https://sweat.onelink.me/gNkX/kl9f0lpt)
The Nike Training Club App
The Nike Training Club App is another favorite of mine. This app lets you focus on which body parts you want to work on or take a trainer-led class. I also like that you can filter the workouts by time to pick one that fits your schedule. You can also combine this app with the Nike Run Club app and create a complete program. This app is free in the App Store.
The FitBod App
The Fitbod app is an AI-powered app that helps you track your progress so you can improve over time. It has been a little while since I used this app, and they have made significant changes and upgrades. I enjoyed the app when I was focused on muscle building. It allows you to choose which equipment you have available and designs a workout around that so you can work out at home when needed. This app is available in the app store for 12.99 a month with a subscription.
The Crossrope App
Another app I enjoyed is The Crossrope App. I first purchased the Crossrope when I wanted to start jump roping more, and then I found out they had an app to accompany it. The app has several workout plans you can use with the Crossrope or with a jump rope you already have.
I find jump roping a fun way to switch up my workout and get some heart-healthy cardio. You can purchase the Crossrope on their website for $129 and a 30-day membership to the app, or purchase the rope only on Amazon*. The app alone is 14.99 a month in the App Store.
I hope these tips and apps are helpful; please share what motivates you to exercise in the comments.
Need more help and encouragement? Book a 1:1 Wellness Coaching Call with me.
*Amazon Affiliate Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on an Amazon link on this site and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.