1. Be realistic

Always be honest about your current fitness levels, how much time you have to exercise, your short and long term goals, and your desired timescales. Remember that you need to stick with your programme to see results. If you think back to a time when you were happy with your shape, how long ago was it? It won’t take as long to get back to that but it won’t happen overnight.

2. Get it in the diary!

Block out your workouts in your diary, like you would a doctor’s appointment. This forward planning will ensure you make time to work out, and will get you into a routine. You are also more likely to commit to these sessions, as you will feel guilty cancelling them out of your diary.

3. Get a training partner

This is by far one of the best ways to get you on track to achieve your goals. Not only will you set regular workout times, you also won’t let your friend down by cancelling at the last minute.  Plus, you will have more fun, and stay motivated!

4. Always have your gym kit

Not only will it mean that you can head for the gym whenever you get a free slot (although they should be in your diary!), keep it in the boot of your car or in the office, and then you’ll have no excuse!

5. Set goals

You need to set a range of short term and long term goals to ensure that you have a focus to your training. We can help you with this, so come and discuss your goals with one of our Personal Trainers.

6. Track your progress

Log your training.  If you don’t know what you did last week, how can you beat it?  Knowing your strengths and weaknesses allows you to plan ahead, also being able to show what you have done to our Personal Trainers makes it far quicker to prescribe a new training plan…. meaning you’ll reach your goal quicker.

7. Eat well

You are what you eat! We don’t believe in fad diets, but putting quality food back into your body will not only see you lose weight, but good eating will help your body repair itself more effectively, sleep better, keep you healthy plus countless other reasons. Read our article on a balanced diet for more information.

8. Try a class

Whether you take part in classes regularly or not, they are great for a motivational boost – especially those times you can’t be bothered thinking what exercises to do in the gym. Many members really enjoy the atmosphere the instructors generate and the enthusiasm generated by a group training together.

9. Mix it up!

You need to keep challenging yourself with different exercises, as your body will get used to your regular routine, so it won’t be as effective. Keep changing your programme to ensure progression… try a class, a new piece of kit or a new area of the body. Adding variety to your workouts will also keep your mind stimulated, which means you will be less likely to lack motivation.

10. Short on time?

If you’re stuck for time, ensure you work harder – run faster, lift more weight, jump into a spin class! Why not try functional training – read our blog article about it!