I’m not sure about you, but time seems to go by really fast. Weeks are full of work, errands, and other tasks that keep my mind going 24 hours a day.
Some days are tougher than others…thats true for all of us, right?
But what I really want to discuss is not letting the challenges of the day affect our workouts or attitude in the gym.
Working out is probably the most effective stress reliever I have ever found. Tough day, bad meetings, long hours, stuck in a chair, boredom and other emotions can weigh on us, but their is truly something theraputic about a good workout. Could be a hike outside or a brutal leg workout, but either way, sweating and getting your heart pumping is good for your mind and body.
You’ve probably experienced this before.
But here’s where most people screw up…
1 Alarm goes off, and you hit snooze and don’t make it to the gym.
2. You had along day at work, feel tired and don’t make it to the gym.
3. Your schedule is packed, and you put it off.
Workouts have to be a become a habit…and, not only a habit that you feel like you HAVE to do, but one that you actually look forward to doing.
I am just as guilty as anyone, when it comes to this stuff. Opening the gym, managing trainers and expanding our business has worn me down at times, I’ve gotten lazy and slacked on my workouts. Why? I got distracted and lost focus on my own goals. The weird part is that I know that I will feel better afterwards!
I don’t have the scientific reason why this occurs, but I do know that we all feel better after a workout.
Super Stressed and Tired? Try a light body weight workout, light jog, a walk, swim or other low intensity exercise. Every day doesnt need to be (or should be) a barn burner, crazy intense workout. Sometimes its good to get the blood flowing and recover. Foam rolling and other mobility work would also be perfect here.
Lazy in the morning? Get all of your stuff prepared the night before. I personally get all of my food, coffee, water, protein, vitamins, backpack and clothes organized before I go to sleep. Sounds funny, but I don’t like to think at all in the morning. To do lists and all of the stuff I need is prepared and ready to go. Nothing worse than trying to find your keys while rushing out the door.
Busy Day? Some people have crazy schedules. I understand that, but its still not an excuse. Everyone has time for the things that are important to them. You just need to put a high level of importance on your workouts, plan them ahead of time and stay committed. Life is full of distractions, but few things have such a positive effect on your life.
Not Motivated? Go to the gym anyway. You know that you will feel better after your workout, right? So, I would recommend reminding yourself about your goals. Seriously contemplate why your are going to the gym. Is it weight loss, an event, a competition, the camaraderie, or something similar? I understand that some days are tougher than others, but simply shifting your focus to your goals can help turn your attitude around and save the day. Consistent workouts will have apositive effect on every aspect of your life.
Got any other tips to reduce stress?
We would love to hear em!
Leave us a comment!
Over the next few weeks, we will discuss other aspects of our IR3 system, including mindset, movement and recovery.
Stay tuned!
Aaron Guyett says
Just blew off some steam running 10, 400 yard sprints! It was excruciating during the workout, but I feel accomplished, confident, and a little bit tougher than I did 30 minutes ago.
Jaiya Figueras says
400s are no joke!
Corey Beasley says
I always feel better after a workout…also like to get outside (hike, paddle or something similar).