Fitness Motivation is hard to come by now and then. It is even more challenging for a busy mom.
But guess what – we’re all in the same boat!
There are days when the couch seems a lot more tempting than lifting dumbbells.
This post contains valuable tips that will allow you to refocus and even rekindle your fitness motivation. So, are you ready to begin?
* Disclaimer: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links, through which I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Table of Contents
Set Realistic Goals
Realistic goal setting is the first step to staying motivated.
Break it down
Break your ultimate goal into smaller, achievable, and sustainable milestones.
Celebrate each one of them as they come, which will keep you motivated and focused on the next step.
Be Specific
Instead of saying, “I want to get fit,” specify what that means to you.
Do you want to run a 5k, fit into your favorite jeans, or simply have more energy to play with your kids?
Create a Schedule
It’s hard to plan anything as a busy mom.
Your perfect plan can be derailed even when you’ve thought it all out. But having a set schedule can genuinely make a significant difference.
Remember to schedule your workout sessions like any other important appointment.
Consistency is Key
Pick a time that works best for you, whether it’s first thing in the morning when the house is quiet before the kids wake up or during nap time.
Doing something repeatedly forms habits – soon enough, you’ll work out without thinking about it!
Firm yet Flexible
Having a specific time for your habit is great, but it’s also important to be flexible.
If something comes up, don’t worry; adjust your schedule and pick up where you left off the next day.
Having a Workout Buddy
Working out with a friend is one of the best ways to stay motivated. You will have someone to share your fitness journey with, and your friend will hold you accountable when you don’t feel like going.
Exercising with a friend provides motivation and support, making intense workouts easier and successes more celebratory. Knowing someone is waiting for you can help you stay committed, even on tough days.
Social Connection
Exercising is much more enjoyable when done with a neighbor, friend, or another parent from school. Let’s motivate each other and have fun!”
Mix Up Your Routine
Running every day can get a little dull, so why not mix things up a bit? Try different activities like pilates, weight lifting, cycling, or dancing to keep things fun and interesting!
Mixing up your workout routine can help prevent plateaus caused by your body getting used to the same exercises. Keep it fun, and keep it fresh!
Explore New Interests
Trying out new activities can lead to discovering a renewed passion.
You might find that you love kickboxing or look forward to your once-a-week pilates class.
Track Your Progress
It’s highly motivating to keep track of your progress (journal, app, progress photos).
Visual Motivation
It’s great to see yourself making progress!
Watching yourself get stronger, faster, and healthier boosts your self-esteem.
Setbacks and Successes
If you have an off week, you can figure out what happened and how to improve.
To help you tracking your progress you could use apps like MyFitnessPal and wear your Fitbit tracker to log your workouts, meals, and progress photos.
Reward Yourself
Incentives can be super motivating. Reward yourself with something special when you hit a fitness milestone.
Healthy Rewards
Treat yourself to non-food items like a new workout outfit, a massage, or a day off to relax and recharge.
Join a Fitness Group
Connecting with others who share your interests, such as joining an online group or attending an exercise class at a local gym, can lift each other up emotionally.
You can share knowledge and support each other along the way.
Structured Environment
Joining a fitness group can give you the structure and routine to stay consistent and make progress.
Consider joining an online community like Fitness Blender, which offers workout videos and support groups.
Focus on the Benefits
Don’t forget why you started in the first place: better health, more energy, and an improved sense of well-being!
Mental and Physical Health
Exercising does a lot more than just making you look good.
It makes you feel better, helps reduce stress and anxiety, and has many other mental health advantages.
Role Model for Your Kids
By staying fit, you’re setting an excellent example for your kids. Teaching them about the importance of health and fitness can inspire them to follow in your footsteps.
Make it Fun
The more you enjoy your workouts, the more you’ll do them, so indulge in the activities you love and look forward to.
Family Involvement
Get the whole family involved in your fitness journey! Take fun bike rides together, teach some basic exercises you’re comfortable with, or have a dance party in the living room.
Music & Entertainment
Create a workout playlist or watch your favorite show while on the treadmill. Enjoy yourself and time will fly.
Try a smart speaker like the Amazon Echo to easily play your favorite workout music or use apps like Spotify to create energizing playlists.
I know finding the motivation to stay fit can be challenging, especially for busy moms like you. But if you set realistic goals, create a flexible schedule, find a workout buddy, and keep things fun and varied, you can stay motivated and make fitness a regular part of your life.
Remember, it’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good and being healthy for ourselves and our families.
