I am not a fitness guru, nor a workout enthusiast, but I am exerting efforts in trying to live a somewhat “fit” life. I try my best to squeeze in workouts at least two to four times a week. But I have to admit that it is not a walk in the park. Until now, I am still struggling. But worry not, there are tricks that could keep us motivated. Here are a few tips that are personally helping me to keep my eyes on the goal of having a healthier and fitter body:

1. Know what types of exercises you prefer. Doing something you like is one of the big steps that could help you to stick to your routine. For me, yoga will always be my go-to workout. I will be writing a separate post solely about yoga in the coming days.
2. Determine the best time for you to workout. Is it in the morning after waking up? In the afternoon? At night after work? Choose the time that best suits your schedule, and stick to it. I prefer to do my workout routines every morning (I am such a morning person). This helps me set the mood, and it makes me more energetic for the rest of the day. Also, since working out is processed by our mind as a task, this helps me get it out of the way already once I am done doing it in the morning. However, there are some inevitable instances when I need to transfer my workout schedule at night after work. The plus side of this is it gives me a very good night sleep.
3. Determine where you will exercise. Do you go to the gym to burn those calories? Or do you prefer doing your routines at home? Going to the gym gives you an access to a lot of equipment, and gives you an instant motivation because you will be encouraged by other people who are determined to keep themselves fit. There are trainers who are willing to assist you as well. Downside of going to the gym: you have to pay, and you have to make an extra effort to drag your lazy bottom to the nearest trusted gym you are enrolled in. Personally, I am more comfortable doing my routines at home.
4. Make sure you use the right equipment or tools. Be it an improvised or legit equipment or tool, it is better to ensure that it functions well and accordingly.
5. Wear comfortable and appropriate workout clothes. Exercising can be a real pain in the bumbums. Comfort is key to make it easier, and to ensure that you will be injured-free.
6. Cute workout outfits are a big plus. This adds motivation in working out. It instantly lessens the haggard look you get after running 5 km, lifting weights, doing burpees or whatnot.
7. Switch up your workout routines. To avoid being habituated with one exercise (and let’s admit it, this makes it boring at times), have at least three types of exercises you could do alternately. My current routines involve yoga, zumba, high intensity interval training (HIIT), and jogging.
8. Try something new. There are a lot of exercises that are sprouting like mushrooms. Do not be afraid to try them out. After all, you may discover your new-found love in those exercises. I am planning to try aerial hoops and pole dancing in the next few weeks.
9. Follow accounts that can motivate you to workout. Do you spend a considerable amount of your time in Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest or YouTube? Make the most of your time spent in these sites by following or subscribing to accounts that can be your #fitspiration.
10. Have a workout buddy/group. It makes it easier when you know you’re not alone in this struggle. Hahaha! When you feel like quitting, there will be someone who will keep you motivated, and you’ll be ashamed to flake out, so you will just honor your commitment.

Working out is not as easy as finishing a big bowl of ramen, or a whole pie. But it is always fulfilling and worth it. Always remember that excuses never burn calories, so let’s start moving, and make our fats cry.