Please motivate me

[SummerLovin2022]

Going back to the gym tonight after totally losing my mojo over the last few months. I was doing great, lost three stone, was toned and full of energy. It all went downhill when I got the mirena fitted and had complications. I've since had it removed but still not back to myself.

How do you motivate yourself to workout?
Any tips on just getting through it?

Appreciate any suggestions as I need a kick up the ass to get moving again.

I find a routine helps. Planning a workout (or several). I have a PT who sets my workouts for me, but when I'm on my own having a set of weights exercises means I have PBs to beat and I'm not just wandering around the gym.

I have different routines for upper body and glutes that I do every week. I also make it part of the day, I do it after the morning school run so I just get it done.

@Stellaris22,thanks for replying. I do two one hour classes a week. Weights, cardio, resistance so my workout is all planned by trainer. If I was left to my own devices I would probably walk at a slow place on a treadmill I'm naturally quite a lazy person when it comes to exercise. I only started exercising regularly to years ago, I'm almost 41. I would prefer a morning class if I'm honest but my trainer does evenings, class is 7pm to 8pm and by that stage I just want to relax at home.

I'm the same. I don't do or plan evening classes because when I'm home I'm reluctant to leave!

I do a couple of morning classes with different exercises but like doing solo sessions with a plan.

For example, Full Body: 2-3km on treadmill (walking/running) followed by 4 sets of 10 barbell hip thrusts, 4x10 b stance deadlifts, 3x10 single leg leg press, dumb bell incline shoulder press, Gobket squats, Tricep kickbacks, Lat pull down. I have it set up to work through and having that routine really helps (I like routines).

I have others such as glutes or upper body. But my PT said it's good to have set routines for 3 months, changing all the time doesn't help, you need consistency.

This would be an average class. Just looking at it now I'm scared

I have developed routines by habit stacking and taking the pressure off. I will never to exercise classes I don't think, but have a quick shower every morning which I end by blasting myself with shower on it's coldest setting (I worked up to this using Wim Hoff as inspiration) Next I do 10 min stretches. These 2 things are non negotiable for me. I just do them.
During the day I micro exercise, enough to get my heart rate up 3 or 4 times - running up stairs at work, a brisk walk at lunchtime or between clients if I'm working.
I have a zumba dvd which I plan to get to grips with next - it'll be my new habit.
I think with your history with mineral coil you'd be best starting small and building up to avoid the fuck it feeling

If you’re in a class, take it really slow and concentrate on getting the right form to start off with. It’s much better to get into good habits. You don’t have to complete everything-removed anything you are doing is helping you get fitter and stronger.

I find the most difficult part of motivating myself actually getting to the gym/pool/outside for a run. Once I’m there it’s usually enjoyable, especially in a class situation. I think finding something you enjoy is key so once you’re there you’re not feeling like you’ve got to “get through it”. Having a routine of when you go, or booking classes in advance or arranging to meet a friend are always good for those days when you can’t be arsed.

Really good luck with the class and well done on making these positive changes.

Remember not removed!

I find with classes (especially ones like the one you posted) you just focus on yourself and not on keeping up. Everyone focuses on themselves and theres no pressure to be the fastest or strongest, you just do what you can. Also, looking at that list, I love chest flys. Key is low weights and focus on technique (i've been told its like opening your arms for a big hug).

@Bemorebridget, thanks for replying. Totally get the habit stacking. I can be quite obsessive when I get into something. I just have to get back into the habit of exercise. Going to start walking to and from the school too, that's about 6k a day and I don't feel it. I like walking when I have a destination to get too.

Definately do the zumba. I tried it about 7 years ago and definately enjoyed it.

I'm going to take it slow. I attempted to return just after mirena removal but couldn't do it. I was tired and weak and was definately in the fuck it camp.

@PurpleDaisies,great advice. I'm going to repeat that, fitter and stronger because that's what I'm aiming for.

@Stellaris22, totally agree. I don't even notice what anybody else is doing in the class. I'm too focused on getting through the reps myself. I'm going to start back tonight on the lower weights.