We get it. You’ve been putting off your fitness regimen due to the gloomy weather over the past two months. But spring is literally around the corner (its official start is March 20), so there’s no better time than the present to get a jumpstart on your fitness and wellness goals.
EBONY’s got three simple keys to kick you off to better fitness and, specifically, getting started.
Roll Out of Bed
This may seem obvious, but roughly 80% of those who verbally commit to a fitness life have trouble getting out of bed to make it to the gym or wherever they work out. On those days when you feel like relaxing instead of pumping iron, GET UP ANYWAY. Eventually, your body will become accustomed to the routine, and your sanity will thank you.
PRO-TIP: Set your clock 30 minutes before you have to climb out of your warm covers to give your body time to adapt to the change in schedule.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Whether you wear basketball shorts, an oversized T-shirt and leggings, BE COMFORTABLE. You’re not in the gym to turn heads with your fashion. I’m not saying you should go out in public looking busted, but looking good should not be a priority when working up a sweat. Dress as if you’re ready to work because that’s what you’ll be doing. If you are comfortable showing some skin, then, by all means, rock your cute little gym wear. If you prefer loose-fitted clothing, then enjoy your workout in all of your baggy glory. Either way, comfort is a must because if you do it right, your workout won’t be too pleasant anyway. You’ll be sweaty, sore and exhausted—all good ingredients for a nice, solid workout!
PRO-TIP: Set your workout clothing close to your bed so you can slip right into them in the morning, no excuses. Or, if you really want to be ready, wear your (clean!) workout set to bed.
Stay Hydrated
Pay close attention to how much water you consume in a day. How much water do you drink when you’re working out with friends or alone? I am not talking about foods and liquids with H2O as a main ingredient. If you are not drinking enough water throughout the day when you’re not working out, do not expect to go very far in your fitness journey. Water is a key element to overall health, and you need tons of it when you’re training. You are pushing your body beyond its comfort zone during times of fitness, and you need to stay hydrated at a much higher rate than when sedentary. So, if you’re drinking less than eight glasses of water now, we suggest that you meet that minimum before embarking on your workout. Aim for at least 10 eight-ounce glasses of water a day. Your body will thank you for it.
PRO-TIP: Invest in a bottle that reminds you to sip throughout the day, like the Hidrate Spark PRO.
It’s easy to overlook simple tactics that can keep us on track when working toward goals. Master these three tips, and you’ll be crushing those weights and running those miles in no time.
