how to start working out: *life-changing* tips to be consistent, advice for motivation & gym anxiety

Summary

This video offers a personal journey from inconsistency to gym routine success, with practical advice for overcoming common fitness challenges. The speaker emphasizes the importance of seeing fitness as a lifestyle, not just a short-term goal, and highlights the significance of mental health, confidence, and self-care in the process. Tips on overcoming gym anxiety, creating a realistic workout schedule, and shifting mindset are shared, alongside advice on setting genuine fitness intentions and finding inspiration. The speaker also advocates for unfollowing negative influences on social media and focusing on positive role models for motivation.

Takeaways

• 😀 Your fitness journey is a lifestyle, not just a short-term goal. Focus on long-term health and well-being rather than quick fixes like losing weight or achieving a specific look.
• 😀 Set your 'why' for working out beyond physical appearance. It should be about mental health, physical health, and building confidence, not just aesthetics.
• 😀 Make fitness a priority in your life. Treat it as something important rather than a chore to eliminate excuses and increase consistency.
• 😀 Gym anxiety is normal, but it gets easier over time. Keep showing up to build comfort and confidence in the gym.
• 😀 To reduce gym anxiety, avoid peak hours (5 PM - 8 PM) and focus on simple workouts like dumbbells or cardio that don't require much equipment.
• 😀 Wear clothes that make you feel confident at the gym, and try not to worry about what others might think while working out.
• 😀 Always prepare your workout in advance so you don't feel lost or overwhelmed once you're at the gym, which can help reduce anxiety.
• 😀 Don't take the gym too seriously. People are usually too focused on themselves to notice you, so just focus on your workout.
• 😀 Create a realistic workout schedule that works around your personal responsibilities. Don’t overcommit, but stay consistent.
• 😀 On days when you don’t feel like working out, ask yourself if you're skipping because you truly need rest or if you’re just feeling lazy. Pushing through those moments builds mental resilience.
• 😀 Follow fitness inspiration that motivates and uplifts you, not content that makes you feel bad about yourself. Curate your social media feed for positivity and encouragement.

Q & A

Why is consistency important in a fitness journey?

Consistency is key because it turns fitness into a sustainable lifestyle rather than a temporary goal. Without consistency, it's easy to fall off track and abandon your fitness routine.

How can someone overcome gym anxiety?

To overcome gym anxiety, it's important to keep showing up at the gym regularly. Over time, you'll feel more comfortable. You can also avoid peak hours, stick to simpler workouts, wear confidence-boosting clothes, and prepare your routine in advance.

What should be the primary motivation behind working out?

The primary motivation should be for your physical health, mental well-being, and overall confidence, rather than focusing solely on achieving a specific body type or physical result.

How can someone deal with a lack of motivation to work out?

When lacking motivation, shift your mindset by reminding yourself of the importance of exercise for your health and well-being. Asking yourself whether you genuinely need rest or if you're simply feeling lazy can help you push through the tough days.

What role does setting a fitness routine play in consistency?

A fitness routine helps create structure, making it easier to stay consistent. By scheduling workouts ahead of time and knowing exactly what exercises to do, you’re less likely to skip sessions.

What is the significance of setting realistic fitness goals?

Realistic fitness goals are essential because they align with your lifestyle and responsibilities. When goals are achievable within your daily schedule, you’re less likely to get discouraged and more likely to stick with the plan.

How does social media impact motivation in fitness?

Social media can have a significant impact on motivation, either positively or negatively. Following accounts that genuinely inspire and motivate you, rather than comparing yourself to people with idealized physiques, can improve your mental health and drive.

What are some practical tips for managing gym anxiety?

Practical tips include going during off-peak hours to avoid crowds, sticking to simple workouts with minimal equipment, and wearing clothes that make you feel confident. Additionally, having your workout planned in advance can ease anxiety.

How can affirmations help with consistency in a fitness journey?

Affirmations can help boost your self-confidence and motivation, making it easier to push through difficult days. By repeating positive affirmations, you remind yourself that you are capable and resilient, reinforcing your commitment to your fitness routine.

What advice does the speaker give for staying consistent even on tough days?

The speaker advises that even on days when you feel tired or unmotivated, you should remind yourself that you’ll never regret a workout. Pushing through the discomfort and showing up for yourself strengthens both your body and mind.