It’s a state of mind we’ve all experienced, staring at yourself in the mirror after engorging a unhealthy meal asking yourself why!? The next frame of thought usually goes something like, ”That’s it I am going to the gym tomorrow and getting back on track”.

Your work out gear is ready to go, killer ab playlist created, and alarm set for bright and early. Then  morning comes and the Billy Blanks ideology from the night before completely disappears, as your roll over to slam your alarm off pull up the covers and mutter “nah…I’ll start tomorrow”.  Even if you do go a few days in a row as soon as you lose focus the whole process starts all over again. Why is it so hard to get ourselves  in the gym and stay there? It should be so easy considering the feeling of accomplishments that surges through your body after a workout session.

In an effort to crack the motivation codes here are some ideas we came up with:

Find a Work Out Buddy- It’s easy to say no to yourself but not so easy to someone who’s dedicated to the gym and will literally drag you out of bed if need be.

Set Work Out Goals- Don’t go back to the gym expecting to perform at the level you use to. Most likely you will not be able to, and thinking you can will lead to discouragement and eventual failure. Set goals for yourself and ease your way back into it

Don’t Burn Yourself Out- Its ok to take a day off in between gym days in fact its encourage.  Your muscles need time to repair themselves just make sure you go back.

Strategically Place Your Workout Clothes- Place your alarm clock underneath your workout clothes so you’re forced to have your outfit in your hands when you turn the alarm off

Switch Up Your Routine-Doing the same exercise everyday can get boring change it up once in awhile.

Think About Future Feelings- Think how satisfied your going to feel when you leave or how much happier the slimmer you will be.

Have a Cheat Day- If you feel a mental breakdown coming, schedule a day were you allow yourself to splurge and have a cheeseburger. Just don’t go overboard and realize it’s not cheat week.