Let’s face it, every time you step into the gym, you’re not always going to be 100% motivated. Life is full of stress, and some days it feels like everything is weighing on you. But does that mean you should skip your workout if you’re not feeling your best? Absolutely not! Remember, a bad workout is always better than no workout at all.
Here are some practical tips to help you get the most out of every workout, no matter how you’re feeling:
1. Prioritize Sleep
When we were kids, our parents always reminded us to get our beauty sleep so we’d be ready for the next day. As adults, we often push this advice aside, staying up late to watch the latest Netflix series or scrolling through TikTok videos. However, those extra minutes of sleep are far more beneficial than any show or video. Prioritizing sleep can not only improve your workouts but also boost your overall well-being. Try going to bed 45 minutes earlier tonight—you might be surprised by how much better you feel.
2. Stay Hydrated
How many times have you shown up at the gym and realized that your first sip of water all day is coming from your gym bottle? Hydration is incredibly important. Even minor dehydration can lead to a 5% loss in strength! To avoid this, start your day with a glass of water as soon as you wake up. This small habit will kickstart your hydration and help your digestive system get moving. Aim to drink a glass of water with each meal, and you’ll be well on your way to staying hydrated throughout the day.
3. Move Throughout the Day
If you’ve been sitting at your desk for eight hours, jumping straight into a workout can be tough. Your hips and lower back might feel tight, and you may find yourself sluggish. To counter this, try to get in a 10-minute walk during your workday. This will not only help you reach your daily step goal but also loosen up those stiff muscles. A good rule of thumb is to move for five minutes for every hour you spend sitting. Even small movements can make a big difference.
4. Fuel Your Body
If you can stomach eating before a workout, it’s highly recommended to have a small snack beforehand. Good pre-workout snacks include fruit, granola or protein bars, or a small sandwich. Eating something before your workout ensures that you have the energy to power through your exercises without feeling dizzy or nauseous. The last thing you want is to be more focused on your hunger than on your workout.
5. Don’t Skip the Warm-Up
Imagine sitting all day and then jumping straight into a workout. Your muscles are stiff from inactivity, and now you’re asking your body to perform at its best. That’s why warming up is so important. It prepares your joints and muscles for the tasks ahead, reducing the risk of injury and improving your performance. Just like you wouldn’t start a car and immediately race it, you shouldn’t skip the warm-up and dive into your workout.
Remember: Consistency Over Perfection
Following these tips can help you make every workout as effective as possible. However, it’s important to remember that not every day will be your best workout. Life’s stressors—whether from work, family, or other concerns—can impact your performance. But as we mentioned earlier, any workout is better than no workout at all. By taking these small steps, you’ll be setting yourself up for success, even on the toughest days.
So, the next time you’re not feeling 100%, remember that showing up and doing your best is what truly matters. Keep pushing forward, and those tough days will start to feel a little easier.
BY TYLER BOLGER