Getting back on the exercise bandwagon can be a tough transition for anyone. It may seem like a chore to first get out of bed, but with these six tips, you will be motivated and ready to go in no time!

Workout Clothes

Make sure that your workout clothes are easy to access and ready to go at any given moment; this way, there is no excuse not to work out right when you wake up.

Be Prepared For Injuries

Invest in a set of reusable gel packs like Accurate Gel Packs that you can keep in the freezer. These will come in handy on days when your muscles are particularly sore. Apply the gel pack to your aching muscles, and you’ll feel better in no time.

Listen

Find an upbeat playlist or song that will put you in the mood for working out; it doesn’t matter what type of music as long as it’s something motivating. Music is key to getting motivated. So make sure you have your favorite jams on hand; this will make it more enjoyable for yourself and make working out more exciting!

Change Your Routine

Try new workouts every few weeks so that boredom doesn’t set in. Mix up your routine by adding in new cardio exercises, strength-training moves, or a different sport. For example, if you always run on the treadmill, try cycling outdoors or take a power yoga class.

Plan Ahead

If you know that you have a busy week coming up, plan your workouts ahead of time, so you don’t back out at the last minute. Having a plan will help you stay on track, and knowing what you’re going to do each day will give you something to look forward to.

Even if you can’t go to the gym every day, plan which days you’ll work out and what your workout will be. If it’s not written down somewhere or arranged, the chances are good that those workouts won’t happen as often as they should. So write out what times of day you’re going to exercise so you can stick to it.

On the days you’re not going to work out, don’t sit around waiting for that motivation or inspiration to strike. Instead, practice doing things other than sitting on your butt and watching TV all day long. Take a walk with your dog, go shopping at a mall you’ve never been in before, try some yoga, or do any other activity that gets you out of the house.

Find a Friend

Working out with a friend is always more fun than doing it alone, and it can also be motivating. When you have someone relying on you, you’re less likely to back out.

Find a Goal

Working out for the sake of working out is not always the most motivating factor. So instead, find something you’re striving for, whether it’s fitting into your old jeans again or running a marathon. Having fitness goals in mind will help keep you on track and make those workouts more worthwhile.

So, if you’re feeling a little down and out when it comes to getting active, remember that there are plenty of ways to get motivated. Just find what works for you and go from there! And be sure to reward yourself along the way – after all, fitness is a journey, not a destination.