Lockdown 3.0 feels different. People seem fed up, more anxious, less patient and a lot of us have lost motivation for exercise.
If you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone: a recent survey revealed 40% of people are doing less exercise in this lockdown than during the first.
The truth is, it was easier to get motivated for exercise during the first lockdown. The weather in April, May and June was perfect for exercise. We had more time on our hands and restrictions were tighter so the choice was either to go outside for exercise, or stay home all day. Motivation was easier back then.
However, there are things you can do right now to boost your motivation and minimise the effort it takes to exercise!
Fitness trainer Graham Low, who runs East Coast Fitness based in Seaham, tells us how
First of all…
Think Positive
Don’t look back on the things we've missed. Let go of the negativity and look forward to the brighter times ahead. We have lots to look forward to in the next few months. We know that team sports and outdoor group exercise can re-start on 27th March, and gyms can reopen from 12th April. And, with warmer weather, lighter mornings and milder evenings on the way we can definitely see light at the end of the tunnel!
Make It Easy To Exercise
Get your workout gear out of the drawer and ready the night before. Plan exercise that doesn’t require far to travel. Do as many things as you can beforehand so that, when the time comes, starting your workout is easy.
Plan Your Exercise When It’s Most Convenient
Personally, I find early morning exercise most convenient because there’s less temptations and obstacles that require my attention. Look at your schedule and plan your workouts at the most convenient time for you.
Do What You Enjoy.
It’s a lot easier to motivate yourself for something that you enjoy. Or something that you know is worthwhile. If you’d rather go for a run that lift weights then do it. It’s better to do what you want to do, and requires a lot less mental effort than trying to force yourself to do something you don’t enjoy.
Reward yourself
Set a goal you'd like to achieve, and decide what you'll treat yourself with when you get there.
For example, if you manage to exercise consistently all month, allow yourself to buy something you really want. Alternatively, it can be shorter-term goals: if you work out three times midweek you can have a glass of wine at the weekend.
Try there four simple things and it will give you a little boost of motivation to get you through the rest of lockdown three. You only have to keep it going for another 4-6 weeks before fitness businesses re-open again and then you’ll have extra help available.
You can find out more about motivation or losing those lockdown extra pounds here
