Sometimes, despite our good intentions, our best-laid workout plans don’t quite seem to… work out. Hitting the gym after a busy day might seem like the very last thing you want to do, but there’s a lot to be said for the endorphin hit that just might turn your day around.
We know it’s hard to find the motivation to work out after work, so we’ve listed our top five tips for finding the energy to hit the gym after a long day at the desk.
Switch Up Your Schedule
Your lack of energy may just be that you’re feeling a little flat, or stuck in a rut. If you can mix up your routine, this may just re-energise and inspire you to get ready for your afternoon exercise.
If you can be flexible with your work hours, why not finish early one afternoon so that you can fit in a sunshine-filled walk somewhere beautiful? Exploring somewhere new, and taking in the fresh air is a wonderful reset and will help you keep your energy and motivation soaring upwards.
Choose Movement That Brings You Joy
Let’s face it. If you’re not a fan of running, or you’re nervous about rolling an ankle… perhaps an afternoon jog is not the thing for you. Remember that your daily movement is about just that - moving your body! So opt for anything that brings you joy, or gives you something to look forward to each day. If you’re wondering how to motivate yourself to exercise, choosing something fun could be the way to go!
If you’re competitive or like an adrenaline hit, rock climbing or spin classes are a great way to start and also add the benefit of a ready-made community, which will help motivate you to work out after work. Or take your afternoon walk to the next level by adding wheels! Rollerskating is a fun way to adventure outdoors and as a bonus, is a pretty thorough way to move your body too! If you’re new to the rollerskating world, check out our beginner’s guide.
Prioritise Your Self Care
If you’re finding that the afternoon slump is a recurring issue that you can’t seem to kick, maybe it’s time to look deeper. It may be worth checking in with your regular doctor to see if you’re lacking any vitamins or essential elements from your diet.
You might find that you’re just overdue for some dedicated ‘me time’. After all, here you are trying to fit your workday, your workout and your everyday errands, all into one tiny 24 hour period. Life is busy, and it’s okay to slow down and take a break.
Our favourite ways to reset are getting a massage (perfect for relaxing as well as releasing tension from your muscles) or going for a float! Most float tanks add magnesium to the float water too, which absorbs readily and is a game-changer when it comes to improving sleep, reducing aches and pains and helping energy levels.
Wear Your Active Truth Tights
Have you tried this one before? It’s a bit of a favourite amongst the Active Truth community. If you’re already in your tights, you’re halfway there! This may only work for you if you can get away with wearing your tights to work, or if you work from home this is easy-peasy. Business on the top… activewear on the bottom!
Having your activewear on and at the ready not only serves as a reminder to move your body, but can be a great little bargaining chip to use in your self-talk. Plus, we have a full range of supportive tights and comfortable bike shorts that can be worn all day, every day.
Get An Accountability Buddy
Okay, we know. It’s the oldest trick in the book! But that’s because it’s one of the best ones! Set a regular movement date with one (or more) of your friends, and help keep yourself accountable. If your inner voice can’t motivate you to work out one day, the outer voice of your best friend, sister or mum might just be the one to encourage you to work up a sweat.
An accountability buddy is also a great way to gain some extra confidence when you’re new to the workout game too! Try out different gym classes, yoga studios or walking trails to see what you both enjoy, and where you have the most fun. We recommend checking out our guide on how to start working out at the gym for some handy tips and tricks.
As always, don’t forget to share your newly found motivation with us on Instagram, by tagging @activetruth #TeamAT - you never know who you might inspire!