Top Ways to Keep Yourself Motivated for the Gym

Working out at the gym can be an excellent, enjoyable thing to do.  However, what do you do when that workout turns dull?  How do you keep yourself motivated?  Here are some of the best ways to keep your workout going strong.

The first great way to keep motivated is to give yourself a pep talk before your workout.  Specifically, you need to state your goals, aloud and in your head.  Tell yourself how much you will lift and how many reps you will do per workout.  Write down your goals and post them somewhere you will see them regularly.

If you find that your motivation is highest when you are working with a partner, make that a regular part of your workout.  Bring a friend or a significant other to the gym with you.  Having someone to cheer you on is a great way to boost your motivation, and you might even be able to inspire them to start a workout, as well.

One of the best physical ways to give yourself a burst of motivation for your workout is to use a bracing technique.  Bracing is really nothing more than clenching your teeth, tensing your muscles and slapping yourself lightly on the shoulders, arms and thighs.  If this seems a bit masochistic, rest assured that scientific studies have shown that it increases your lifting ability and motivation to complete the workout. You’ll probably see lots of big muscly guys doing it – we’d advise that if you decide to try this, make sure you do it in the privacy of the changing room!

Finally, consider your clothing colors.  Studies have shown that bright, bold colors and even black clothes have a motivational effect on the brain, allowing you to do more in your workout.  However, drab, light colored clothing seems to have the reverse effect, making you more relaxed.  So save the whites and tans for afterward, and enjoy your workout!