Let’s face it, going to the gym sucks. No one actually likes it. Except for those people who genuinely do enjoy it, who I trust less than anyone else in this world. Recently, I’ve committed to going to the gym every day to see if I can become one of those liars who “love it.” In my time there, I’ve come up with the following tips on how to make it suck less.
1. Make a playlist that pumps you up to push you through it.
The song that gets me through the last mile of every run is “Jungle” by X Ambassadors. Find one that gives you the strength to finish strong. If you’re stuck, just Google “workout pump up songs” for ideas.
2. Find a time that works into your schedule so it doesn’t feel like you’re forcing it.
You want to pick a time that fits (at least somewhat) naturally into your daily schedule. If you're not the type of person that can imagine being awake at 6 a.m. — let alone being in the gym that early — don't force it. Find a gym that's open 24 hours and go at 3 a.m. if that's what works best for you.3. Get cute workout clothes.
I know it sounds ridiculous, but having cute workout clothes will boost your confidence at the gym. You'll want to show them off and they will motivate you to keep pushing yourself so you can look even better in them.4. If you wear glasses or contacts, don’t wear them.
Now, this one doesn't apply to everyone, but if your vision isn't 20/20, embrace that at the gym. Leave your glasses in the car so you can avoid that awkward eye contact with those people you went to high school with. It can also help you focus on the exercise you're doing because the machine or weights will be the only clear thing when everything around you is slightly blurry.5. Switch it up.
Anyone would get sick of doing the same exercise day in and day out. You can structure your week so you work on a different part of your body each day, or just switch things up spontaneously. Also, I definitely recommend trying a group fitness class like Zumba or Pilates if you've never.
6. Get a gym buddy.
Having a gym buddy is a fantastic way to motivate you to keep on track because they hold you accountable. You can suffer together! They aren't for everyone because some people just prefer to work out alone, but they are a great resource for those who want the additional encouragement.
7. Don’t assume that people are staring at and judging you.
You are by far your own harshest critic. The main reason I used to hate going the gym was because I thought everyone was staring at me and judging my (in)ability. The reality is that people are so focused on themselves at the gym that they probably don't even notice you exist.
8. Stick with it.
You can't expect to look like this girl after only two days of working out. I used to have those expectations and get easily discouraged when results came slowly. You have to have confidence that even if the results take a while, you'll get there. After all, it takes 21 days to make a habit. Whether you want to lose 40 pounds or simply tone up a bit, stay fiercely focused on your goals. Don't let the scale be the ultimate judge, because muscle weighs more than fat.