Still thinking about those New Years’ resolutions? And thinking? And thinking? If you’re struggling to follow through with your new fitness routine, you’re not alone. Exercising can be a drag, especially when the winter frost makes you dread leaving the warm comfort of your Washington DC luxury apartments.
If you’re like the rest of us, you kicked off the new year with a list of promises … and then life happened. So, where do you find the motivation? How do you pump it up? And, most importantly, how do you keep it up? Here are some fitness life hacks to help you get out of bed and into the zone.
Turn Up the Volume
Nothing passes the time or pumps you up quite like music. Create a playlist (or two or three) that keeps you going and makes you happy. It doesn’t matter what it is, so long as it boosts your energy and makes you forget that you have two more miles or three more reps to go until it’s time to rest. You can also download apps like Jog.fm, which match the tempo of the music to the pace of your workout.
Expand Your Mind While You Strengthen Your Body
Instead of turning on your favorite power-hour band, consider tuning into a podcast. Your exercise hour is the perfect time to catch up on all those shows you’ve been meaning to listen to. Whether you prefer to be educated or entertained, it’s easy to get lost in a story while you’re busy burning pounds and toning your muscles.
Find Your Inspiration
Some people can work out anytime, anywhere. They don’t need inspiring surroundings or equipment. Others need something to keep them engaged and motivated. Fortunately, DC is home to tons of great urban refuges, which makes it easy to find a place that lifts your spirit.
If you want a reason to get out of bed at the crack of dawn, consider heading to one of DC’s exercise hotspots—say, the beautiful Roosevelt Island Park Run or the stunning trails that wind their way through Rock Creek Park.
Steady Does It
Some people set lofty goals for themselves. They imagine they’ll go from couch potato to triathlete in a matter of weeks. That’s like moving from zero to 60 in a nanosecond. By day three, they’re back on the sofa, lounging in the comfort of their luxury apartments in Washington.
Want a better strategy? Aim for consistency instead of intensity. Run a half mile every single day. Maybe you can only muster a ten-minute climb on the stairwell at work. It doesn’t matter what type of exercise you choose; just be sure to keep up a steady routine if you want to see results.
Team Up
It’s hard to hold yourself accountable. For that, you need a buddy—someone with whom you can share the joys and pains of exercising. Talking while running (or lifting or stretching) also keeps your mind off the task at hand.
If you prefer groups to pairs, find a local DC runner’s group or some other kind of meetup near your apartment in DC. In the process, you’ll not only get fitter and more motivated; you’ll also make new friends and strengthen existing relationships.
Whatever exercise hacks resonate with you, remember that changing your habits takes time and commitment. Transformation doesn’t occur overnight. There will be ups and downs along the way. Set realistic goals and always, always, try to have fun with your workout.