Adding Intention
I'm starting to change the way I think about working out. I'm trying to start going into it with a goal other than getting some definition in my stomach. Don't get me wrong, I do still want some aesthetic change and to tone up, but I am realizing that if there's more intention behind why I am working out it makes it easier to stay motivated. Almost with out fail I usually get a burst of motivation that lasts a couple days then subsides for a couple weeks. It's incredibly hard for me to get into a routine and stay consistent. One of my broad goals is to find some routine and consistency. In order to keep myself motivated I've established some goals, intentions and reasons for my self as to why I need to get off my butt and move.
1. Great Lakes surf season has arrived.
Surfing in it of itself is a good workout for me, but I know that if I want to become stronger in the water I need to work on being stronger out of the water. I've always lacked upper body strength so it's safe to say I am not a strong paddler. I want to change that. So I am going to work out to strengthen my arms so that I can paddle stronger. I also want to be able to pop to my feet in quicker more fluid motion. So in addition for my arms I am going to work hard on my core and legs. For me it helps to think of what I am am doing as a part of a whole, working out as a part of becoming a better surfer not just working out because I have to.
2. My body always feels better if I keep moving.
I've had my fair share of sprains and tweaks throughout my many years of dance and when you throw those into the mix with my crappy knees and its easy to guess that my body does not like the cold. My body generally feels significantly better if I have been working it and keeping my muscles strong. I sometimes like to ignore this fact even though I've proven to myself it's true (and my mom has constantly tried to remind me of this). So here's to keeping this fact at the forefront of my mind and doing what I know will make me feel better.
3. I mentally feel better.
I used to always try to deny that getting myself moving would make be feel better, less stressed or anxious, happier. Once I actually started moving though and decided to be less stubborn I realized that moving does help me feel better when I'm getting myself into a rut (another perfect example of me not wanting to listen to my parents even though they were right). Really, who doesn't want to feel happier and more clear headed?
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One thing lately that I realized helps me get moving is planning and doing workouts I actually enjoy. Yoga has really been one of those enjoyable workouts for me so I've been trying to get on the mat a few days a week. I have also taken on a challenge that I saw on one of my favorite Instagram accounts, 1000 burpees by Christmas. If you break it down its 40 burpees a day which is totally manageable. It's much easier to work out when you don't dread it.
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The goal now it to keep reminding myself of these things on the days I'm feeling tired and lazy. I'm hoping by getting these thoughts out of my head and into the world will help me keep myself accountable.
