When it comes to fitness and motivation, Karena and Katrina of Tone It Up are the ultimate experts. That's why I've turned to the dynamic duo for pro tips on tackling the most daunting exercise task: motivating yourself in the morning to work out. I know, I know... I can see you wincing from here. I don't blame you if you're not a morning person; not many people are.
It doesn't mean that it isn't possible, though. It’s all about figuring out motivational tips that work best for your goals, lifestyle, personality, and habits. By creating a customized approach to increasing your motivation, you'll be more likely to change your morning habits.
Of course, it won't happen overnight. Like most health goals, it’ll take time. It certainly helps to constantly remind yourself of the benefits of morning exercise. "Physically, your body will have more energy and your skin will be glowing," Karena and Katrina tell Bustle. "Plus, working out first thing will make you feel calmer and ready to take on the day."
Basically, morning workouts are a core component in becoming the girlboss I know you are. Keep reading to check out Karena and Katrina’s clever motivational tips. You've got this!
1. Use your favorite song as your alarm
For a fool-proof way to wake up in an awesome mood, Karena and Katrina suggest setting your favorite jam as your alarm. And while this is super easy to do with a smartphone, it can also be done with most digital CD player alarm clocks. It sure beats waking up to high-pitch bells or shrieking sirens.
2. Change the name of your alarm
These days, many smartphones let you change the name of each alarm. Take advantage of this feature by renaming each alarm as your goals. Karena and Katrina offer this much-needed reminder: "Whatever your goal is, OWN IT! Seeing that everyday will remind you why you're getting up early in the first place." Now, ain't that the truth.
3. Sign up for a morning class
If you're the type to feel motivated in a group setting, fitness classes are totally up your alley. Get yourself out of bed and in the zone by signing up for an early class. Everything from yoga to spin totally counts. Better yet, sign up with a friend. According to Karena and Katrina, "You'll feel more obligated to get your booty over there because you have your pal counting on you." How's that for progressive accountability?
4. Prep your workout clothes
Before you go to bed the night before, lay out your favorite workout clothes to wear in the morning. Remember, they don't have to be anything fancy or expensive. As long as you feel great in them, set them out.
5. Think about bringing your A-game
If you know you're going to have a rough day at work or school, take a moment to remember how much exercising will help you kick butt. It will release stress before the day even starts, and ensure that your brain gets enough oxygen flow. As a result, you'll be able to unleash your inner bosslady with ease and efficiency. Karena and Katrina remind us that morning exercise will increase your energy levels, too.
6. Create a nightly routine
In order to feel motivated to get up in the morning, getting enough shut-eye is key. Of course, that all starts with slipping into bed at a reasonable time. Karena and Katrina suggest developing a nightly routine to help prevent those sleepy feelings from coming: "Drink some herbal, decaffeinated tea, slip into some comfy pajamas, read a good book or meditate! Do whatever will calm your mind and prepare yourself for a good night's sleep."
7. Avoid caffeine after 3 p.m.
While we're on the topic of a good night's sleep, we can't forget about caffeine consumption. For ultimate morning motivation, skip the coffee after 3 p.m. the day before. This will ensure that you don't stay up all night, resulting in an extremely drowsy morning. The great thing is that once you do start working out in the morning, you might not even need a cup of joe during the day. Instead, opt for energizing fruit smoothies for a healthy pick-me-up. And we can't forget about water, water, water!
Images: Tone It Up; Pexels
