How to stay motivated AFTER a fitness challenge

Motivation in general can be hard for people to grasp onto. You have to work your willpower and motivation like you would a muscle. You have to work daily at having healthy habits and doing your workout even when you don't want too. I also see that once people finish up a fitness challenge they go back to what they were doing before. I don't see it with everyone but it definitely happens so I think we need to work on that not happening.

Once you are done with a challenge and you hit your goal, it is time to set another goal. Living a healthy and fit lifestyle is a journey. You can always get better and stronger and learn more about nutrition. The minute you stop is the minute you come back down. After you hit your goal, sit down and re-evaluate. What do you want to do now? This next time around, should you lift heavier? Should you add on a 30 minute workout to what you are doing now. Should you try a more extreme program to get a new challenge? Your goal could also be as little as not snacking in between meals (unless its part of your meal plan). Not eating carbs or fruit past 4pm. Eliminating wine to once a week or better yet eliminating alcohol to once a month. You should always be able to find a new goal.

Get in an online group ( I always have one going and anyone is welcome to join, just ask :) ) for accountability at all times. Always having someone there to talk to about your goals and to see everyone still going for yet another short - term goal really makes a difference. I believe having support is one of the biggest things we need when we are working towards something.

Make your workout a priority no matter if you are in a challenge or not. Schedule a workout time so you don't miss the workout. Start mixing up your workout. If you run on the treadmill, take it outside. Do a HIIT workout. Do Plyo. Do tabata. Do dance cardio. Go swimming. Ride a bike. Take a yoga class or a barre class. Do something different. I believe cross training is the best way to keep your body in shape and keep your mind sharp.

Invest in some new workout clothes. That can always make us feel good and fresh. New shoes as well. Get a fitness tracker, whether it be a Fitbit or Apple Watch and track your daily workouts, steps, calories. I think having one of those makes you so aware of what you do everyday that you keep going because you know what you are capable of. They help me with motivation for sure.

In summary;

To stay motivated after a challenge you need to;

1. Set another short term realistic goal.

2. Surround yourself with active people.

3. Get social media involved and use accountability with other people just like you.

4. Stay consistent with your meals and workouts but also make sure you take that rest day and cheat meal too.