Working out consistently (4 times a week) is a semi-new thing for me. I have always lived an active lifestyle but never found myself in a gym or studio. I opted for long walks, cheerleading, dance, and any outdoor activities. However, now that I work a 8-5 job, I was forced to find a schedule that worked for me while also being realistic and not interfering with the work day. I joined class pass last August to help organize my workouts more effectively and ensure that I would get a workout in at least a few times a week. At first, it wasn’t easy. I came home from work exhausted and not even thinking about the gym. A year later, I look forward to my workouts and know exactly what type of workouts and class times work for me. I hit the gym 4 times a week and it’s become a daily routine for me! Here’s how.
Start By Going Every Other Day
I began my workout journey going just Tuesday and Thursdays. I knew this would not burn me out and I would feel confident and proud of myself regardless. I committed to doing two high-intensity workouts to gain strength, confidence, and endurance. I did cycling, title boxing, and power yoga for the first few weeks. I felt energized, strong, and accomplished and started looking forward to my workouts.
Two months into this routine, I started going daily Monday-Thursday! I craved a workout and couldn’t wait to try new studios. I started implementing hot pilates, HIIT, and barre into my weeks and I never felt bored or not motivated. All these workouts implemented the same types of form and allows me to to constantly improve my technique.
Don’t Set Yourself Up for Failure
As a kid, I was a complete morning person. I remember waking up at 7 am every weekend ready to play and wondering how my friends could sleep so late! It wasn’t until college when I realized I literally couldn’t be functional until 10 am. None of my classes were early and I felt no reason to get out of bed, especially to work out.
To make matters worse, my first job out of college was “work from home.” I made my own schedule and didn’t need to be out in the field until 11:30 am. Again, I felt no motivation to get up early and work out.
Then I joined Corporate America and got on the 8-5 grind. I never thought I could survive with this daily schedule but I do. However, my days are long. And I still go to sleep around 11 pm every night. Working out before work never really seemed like an option. I know I would have to choose a stupid early time so i would have time to shower and get ready before work. This all just seemed exhausting and unrealistic.
To keep myself from cancelling a workout or feeling down on myself, I avoid scheduling early morning workouts. I know the chances of me committing are slim and then I’ll spend the rest of the day feeling dumb that I skipped a workout. Instead, I choose 6:30 or 7 pm classes. This gives me just enough time to go home, change, make a snack or dinner, and get to the studio. I rarely skip these workouts and it forces me to get out and do something active rather than sit on my couch after work!
Do Enjoyable Workouts
Working out should be fun! It sucks and it’s hard and some days are better than others, but it should still be enjoyable. I love workouts that test my balance, strength, and core because I cheered for 7 years and still love these aspects of my body. Pilates and yoga allow me to incorporate handstands, headstands, back bends, and planks into my workouts and play around with my strength and balance.
I also have a recent obsession with cycling because it increases my stamina and makes me feel SO good about myself and how far I’ve come in my fitness journey. Plus, my dad is a cyclist and it’s something fun we can do together!
How do you maintain your workout schedule without feeling defeated? Drop a comment below!
