I don’t know why but for the life of me I can’t stay consistent for more than 2 weeks… I work night shit and I pass my gym on the way home but I can never get myself to just do it, or I’ll tell myself I’ll go later then never do.so literally any tips or advice would help #consistent#advice#tips#workout 🏋️
2024/4/24 Edited to
... Read moreHey everyone, I totally get where you're coming from! That feeling of wanting to be consistent at the gym but just falling off after a couple of weeks is SO frustrating, especially when you're battling a night shift schedule. I've been there, staring at my gym bag and making every excuse in the book. But after a lot of trial and error, I've finally cracked the code on staying consistent in the gym, even with a crazy schedule. Here are some of the things that really helped me, and I hope they help you too!
First off, let's talk about that 'passing the gym on the way home' dilemma. My biggest game-changer was rethinking my immediate post-night shift routine. For a long time, I tried to convince myself I'd go straight from work, but honestly, my body and mind just wanted to crash. Instead, I shifted my gym time to before my night shift or after I'd had a solid block of sleep. If going right after work is your only option, then you need to make it as frictionless as possible. Have your gym clothes laid out, your water bottle filled, and your pre-workout (if you use it) ready. Think of it as part of your 'wind-down' from work, not an extra chore.
Another huge tip for staying consistent in the gym is scheduling your workouts like non-negotiable appointments. Seriously, put them in your calendar with alarms, just like you would with a doctor's visit or a work meeting. When you work nights, your 'days' are different, so embrace that. Maybe your 'Monday workout' happens on what feels like a Wednesday morning to everyone else. Who cares? What matters is that you commit to it. I found that having a visible schedule, even just on a whiteboard, made a huge difference.
Let's not forget about energy management. Night shift work is exhausting, and you can't expect to have peak energy all the time. On those days when a full gym session feels impossible, commit to a 'minimum viable workout.' That might be 20 minutes of cardio, a quick bodyweight circuit at home, or even just stretching. The goal isn't always intensity; it's about maintaining the habit and showing up for yourself. Sometimes, just walking through the gym doors is half the battle won. Proper hydration and planning your meals around your shift can also significantly impact your energy levels.
Finally, find your 'why' and make it visible. Why do you want to be consistent? Is it for strength, health, mental well-being, or just to feel good in your clothes? Write it down, put it on your mirror (like the inspiring message in the image that says "I NEED TIPS ON Staying Consistent In The GYM"), or make it your phone background. On those days when motivation is low, reminding yourself of your deeper purpose can be incredibly powerful. Also, don't underestimate the power of a good playlist or a workout buddy who understands your schedule. Even virtual accountability can work wonders. Consistency isn't about perfection; it's about showing up, even when you don't feel like it, and building that momentum over time. You've got this!
I’ve discovered that going with a friend holds me accountable or taking group classes.