How to boss an early morning workout…
Wakey Wakey Sunshine, it’s time to crawl out of bed, stumble into some clothes and get yo self moving…
Let’s face it, early morning workouts are a little like Marmite, you either love or hate the idea. But regardless of how you feel, at this busy time of year and coupled with the darker mornings, leaving the house early is harder than ever.
No one expects you to feel motivated all year round, on the build-up to Christmas, there are endless events, the pressure to complete outstanding jobs before the holidays. Not to mention, those super patronizing infographics estimating how many burpees will burn a mince pie…
There’s a very simple reason I love working out first thing, and that’s because it set’s me up for the day, I feel energized, refreshed and the endorphins are addictive. With this in mind, I thought it might be useful to share how I keep up my motivation for 6 am club and hopefully, you’ll consider giving it a try too!
Start by setting a goal…
Be realistic, it’s a complete waste of time and energy starting the week with a plan to work out at 6 am for 4 consecutive days when you’re evenings are jam-packed with events. Start small and plan 2/3 achievable workouts, allowing for recovery and a few extra hours in bed.
Plan workouts or classes you actually ENJOY…
There’s simply no point planning to run 5km before work if you simply don’t enjoy running, try meeting a friend for a game of squash, head to CrossFit. Swim, take your dog on a power walk, book yourself into a new class. Focus on what makes you happy, after all the aim of the game is to set you up for the day, high on endorphins and good vibes.
Give yourself a ‘reward‘…
I have settled into a glorious early morning routine, I start with cardio, then I move onto weights and finish with a gentle swim, followed by a jacuzzi and sauna. Whilst I appreciate that’s not achievable for everyone, keep the rewards simple like your favorite coffee post workout or prepare a breakfast worth jumping out of bed for.
Pack a “Fail Proof Gym Bag”…
Whilst this might sound really mundane, failing to be prepared can cause unnecessary stress and in some cases expense (if you need to buy something) or the need to return home.
Make sure you always have:
*Spare pants and socks.
*A washkit including – shampoo, body wash, face wipes, a razor, deodorant, and sanitary products.
*A folding hairbrush, a few spare hairpins and/or a hair bobble.
Prepare EVERYTHING in advance…*
**If possible…
I aim to have my gym bag packed and by the front door, breakfast and lunch made in advance and ready to grab, plus I even go as far as having a coffee set up to be made. It might sound a touch obsessive, but on the other hand, I’ve found if I’m laying in bed thinking about all the things I need to do before leaving the house, just avoiding the whole idea is far simpler.
Don’t worry if you oversleep.
It’s not the end of the world, is it? Now a coffee and chocolate shortage, that might be the end of the world, in fact, I don’t even want to think about it.
***
Is there anything you would add?
Katie
x
