I need help becoming very dedicated to going to the gym. How do some of y’all do it?

[Anonymous]

I’m not a lazy person by any means but I just don’t like going to the gym. Some people enjoy it but I just don’t. I like to walk, hike etc but I have issues with my back and I need to strengthen my neck back and core to prevent this awful pain. I guess my question is…what keeps y’all motivated? How do you push yourself to go? I struggle badly with mental health and this is such a challenge for me.

[Oliverlogan263]

Yo I feel you sis, getting to the gym can be such a struggle sometimes. A few things that help me stay motivated:

- Set small, achievable goals. Trying to go 6 days a week is too much pressure - start with just 3 and work your way up. Check off the wins.

- Find a workout buddy. Having someone count on you shows up is accountability, plus it's more fun together.

- Dress the part. Throw on some cute workout clothes so you feel good and it's one less thing holding you back.

- Reward yourself after with something you like, like your favorite coffee or a tv show. Something to look forward to.

- Remember why you're going - your health and feeling your best should be motivation enough. But don't beat yourself up if you miss a day.

- Make a schedule and stick to it like your life depends on it. Consistency is key for seeing changes.

You got this sis! Even just 30 minutes can make a difference. I know mental health sucks, but taking care of your body might help you feel a bit better too. We're all works in progress - be proud of any effort you put in. You got this!

[Forceinhand]

Finding a program that works for you is the first step. I enjoy the environment of the gym. Hard work, lots of dedicated and disciplined people around, friendly chats, group sessions etc. And just the mental image of the body, strength and health I want keeps me motivated. Working out also elevates your overall mood when done right (as in putting in the effort and not just showing up and half-hearting a few machines and taking pics) It's also quite a kick when you do make gains, like a new PR at deadlifts or something of that ilk. Truth is when you've come to a certain point, working out will be natural, and right now my mood drops severely if I miss sessions for too many days.

[The-Stud]

Rewarding myself with yummy food after gym is what gets me going haha

[ThrillSeeker01]

Find a kind of work out that you like doing, make it into a routine