Kicking off a new workout routine feels exciting at first, but let’s be real… sticking with the fitness goals? Motivation dips, life gets in the way, and suddenly that gym membership or home workout plan starts disappearing into the background. But don’t worry, you’re not alone! The key is building it as part of a habit, knowing how to stick to fitness goals and push through those moments when skipping a workout feels way too tempting.
Here are five motivational tricks to help you stay motivated to workout and make exercise a habit you actually enjoy.
1. Set Goals That Make You Want to Show Up
What’s one of the biggest gym blunders? Setting goals that feel as exciting as watching paint dry! Setting goals that feel like a chore. Instead of saying, “I want to get fit,” aim for something exciting and measurable, like:
- Running a 5K without stopping (bonus points if there’s a medal at the finish line!)
- Finally being able to do that deep squat without feeling like a wobbly newborn deer
- Mastering your first unassisted pull-up (we’re still working on it but we’ve heard it feels awesome!)
Pro Tip: Write your goals down and keep them somewhere visible, like your phone’s lock screen or a sticky note on your mirror, or even as a daily reminder in your fitness app. Seeing them daily will keep you focused and fired up.
Read also: Realistic Fitness Goals For 2025
2. Find a Workout You Don’t Dread
Spoiler alert: If your workout feels like torture, you’re more likely to ghost it than show up. Time to find one that actually makes you want to move! Instead of forcing yourself into a fitness routine that feels like punishment, try different activities until you find one that clicks:
- Hate running? Try cycling, swimming, or hiking instead.
- Love music? Dance workouts like Zumba or hip-hop cardio might be your jam.
- Prefer lifting things up and putting them down? Strength training could be your new best friend.
Pro Tip: The best workout is the one you don’t make excuses to skip. Keep experimenting until you find something that makes you excited to move.
3. Schedule Workouts Like an Important Meeting
If you leave workouts to chance? Yeah… they probably won’t happen. Instead, treat them like appointments you can’t cancel:
- Block workout time in your calendar like a VIP meeting (because it is!).
- Set phone reminders so you don’t “accidentally” forget.
- Find your best workout time (morning, lunch break, or evening) and make it a habit.
Pro Tip: Shift your mindset. Instead of saying, “I don’t have time,” say, “I will make time.” Small changes like this can be game-changers.
4. Track Your Progress & Celebrate Wins (Even Small Ones!)
Nothing kills motivation faster than feeling like you’re getting nowhere. Tracking your progress lets you see real improvements over time. Try these simple tracking methods:
- Log workouts in a fitness app or notebook.
- Take progress photos (trust the process!).
- Track how much stronger, faster, or more energised you feel.
Pro Tip: Celebrate every win! Whether it’s hitting a personal best or just showing up consistently for a week, recognise your hard work. It all adds up!
5. Get an Accountability Partner
Having someone to keep you on track can be a game-changer. Whether it’s a workout buddy, a personal trainer, or your fitfam (fitness community), accountability makes consistency easier – it’s true.
- Gym Buddy: Less chance of skipping when someone’s expecting you.
- Trainer or Coach: They’ll push you, teach you proper technique, and keep workouts effective.
- Online Community: Join a fitness challenge or group for motivation.
Pro Tip: Even just telling a friend your goals makes you more likely to stick to them. Find someone who will check in on you, hype you up, and keep you accountable.
6. Beat Gym Anxiety (Because We’ve All Been There)
Walking into a gym for the first time (or after a long break) can feel intimidating, but don’t let that stop you! Here’s how to boost your confidence, reclaim your groove and on the way to sticking to your fitness goals:
- Breathe Deeply: Yes, remember to take big breaths!
- Have a Plan: Know what you’re going to do before you step in.
- Ask for Help: Trainers and gym staff are there to guide you.
- Stick to the Basics: Start with treadmills, dumbbells, or bodyweight exercises.
- Wear What Makes You Feel Good: Confidence starts with feeling comfortable.
Gymtimidation is a real thing, and more common than you think. Read more on how to overcome gym anxiety.
7. Fuel Your Workouts Right (So You Don’t Run Out of Steam)
Motivation dips fast when your energy levels crash. Eating the right foods before and after workouts keeps you going strong.
- Pre-Workout: A light meal with carbs and protein (think banana with peanut butter, oatmeal, or Greek yogurt).
- Post-Workout: Protein – rich foods for muscle recovery (chicken, eggs, or a protein shake).
- Hydration: Don’t forget to drink water before, during, and after workouts.
Sticking to a workout routine isn’t about sheer willpower – it’s about setting yourself up for success. By making workouts enjoyable, tracking progress, scheduling them into your life, and finding the right support system, you’ll turn exercise from a struggle into a lifestyle.
Need extra motivation? Join a GoFit gym near you and start your journey with a community that’s got your back!
