Q: A colleague asked “How do you stay motivated in your own training?”

A: Sometimes it’s tough to find motivation for myself after a day of motivating other people. Here’s what helps me stay on track:

• Having someone else write my programming. Not just for the accountability factor, but also so I don’t have to plan what I’m doing that day. I get to the gym and follow my program.

• Scheduling rest and planning rejuvenating activities like a relaxing get away or a massage. It’s a lot easier to convince myself to hit the gym if I know a break is coming up.

• Taking advantage of the time when I do have it because I know that some days will just be too busy to get to the gym. Since I know that exercising 4-5 days/week keeps me feeling good physically and mentally, I don’t like to waste a day where there is time for a workout.

• Listening to my body. If it’s telling me that I really can’t pick up a heavy weight today, I do something different: go for a walk, focus on mobility, or make it an accessory day with core, body weight exercises, and bands.

• I make a deal with myself that I can make it a short session or include some less demanding exercise as long as I get in a big lift (squat or deadlift).  This keeps me progressing in my lifts. And nothing’s more motivating than seeing my numbers go up.

• Evaluating other areas of my life. Maybe the workouts aren’t the problem.  Is something else draining my energy?  How’s my work/life balance, sleep schedule, diet, daily routine of yoga, meditation, and journaling?

• Remembering my ultimate goal, the reason why I do what I do: I want to be energetic, healthy, and strong for years to come.  And I want to inspire others to do the same.

Do you need motivation or have a question about training? Email me!

Alicia Cross is a Certified Personal Trainer, Wellness Coach, and Yoga Instructor with more than 15 years’ experience working with clients in classes and one-on-one.  She is a yogi, meditator, vegan, and lifter of heavy things. If you’re ready to discover the strength and peace that comes from within, email Alicia@AliciaCrossTraining.com.

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