How to Find Workout Motivation
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Meghan: Amanda works out pretty much every day. I eat cookies pretty much every day. So I decided to get some of her top workout motivation tips. Keep reading if you need some help in the fitness department too.
Amanda: As much as I love cookies, it is important that you fuel your body with nutrient dense foods. Pre and post workout nutrition are crucial in providing you energy to workout and in repairing your muscles. Since I’m usually on the go, I regularly turn to organic protein bars for a quick snack. I am not a dietician or a nutritionist but I do have some basic beliefs about how I fuel my body. It’s about finding a balance; eat your pizza, tacos, and cake but make sure you fit in your kale salads, avocado toasts, and grilled chicken. A balanced diet consists of carbs, fats, protein, and micronutrients. Each macronutrient (carbs, proteins, fats) plays a crucial role in helping your body function, improving performance, and repairing your body. Eat mindfully, be conscious of the amount you eat, but don’t restrict yourself! There are no foods that are “off limits.”
Meghan: Seeking balance- that’s great advice! What else would you tell someone who is just starting to work out or finds themselves in a motivation slump?
Amanda: I would definitely suggest investing in cute, comfy workout clothes that make you feel SEXAAYY. You aren’t going to want to workout if your clothes aren’t comfortable or don’t allow for optimal movement. All it takes is a killer pair of leggings!
Meghan: Ha I can't believe you said 'SEXAAYY' but it makes total sense. Counter-intuitive as it is, I definitely have more motivation to work out when I already feel and look good. When I feel gross, all I want to do is curl up in a ball and watch TV.
Amanda: Yeah and when you feel like a badass you'll workout like a badass. You have to find something you enjoy doing. Working out isn't meant to be torturous. It is important to switch up your workouts so your body doesn’t get used to the same routines. I love to do anything and from weight training, barre, boxing or biking! Each workout is empowering in its own, unique way. If it's one of those days when you feel like a resting ball of dough (metaphor creds to Bert), I recommend blasting music and dancing around your room to pump yourself up.
Meghan: Wait does the dancing itself count as the workout or do you mean it's just the pre-workout? I'm actually a dancer and there's a joke among us that we will dance for four hours straight without sitting down but we won't run for more than three minutes in perfect weather downhill.
Amanda: It definitely counts if that's what you enjoy and will make time for. You need to mentally insert "workout time" into your schedule and spend time with people who like to workout. If working out is important to you, you will prioritize it and the people around you will take notice. You have each other to confront your excuses to not work out. You will hold each other accountable and keep each other motivated.
Meghan: I mean that’s why I keep you around- you’re a good influence. I keep looking at you and thinking ‘Didn’t I used to be the athletic one?’
Amanda: Hahaha, working out isn’t always about being “athletic.” It’s for your mind just as much as it is for your body. Each workout has a start and an end. Every completed workout, however long or short, is an accomplishment. Yes, working out can make you physically strong and physically healthy, but it also affects your mindset. Crappy days can become bearable once you get the endorphins flowing. Working out can clear your mind, help you feel more centered, and give you the thrill of accomplishment.
Meghan: Any last suggestions?
Amanda: I’m a big believer in listening to your body, but I also love to push my body beyond its limits. Again, it is all about balance! Be kind, kick ass, and thrive!
Meghan: And of course, everyone can follow your Instagram, @amanda_sweats, for motivation inspiration, and new workout moves.
