I have been trying to stick with going to the gym for years. There were times when I didn’t even mind it, and I really wanted to build muscle. But overall, I find it exhausting, time-consuming, and something I have to force myself to do rather than something that makes me feel better. Right now, I need to lose about 10 pounds, which is more important for my heart health and cholesterol than gaining muscle. I want to find some form of exercise that I actually enjoy. I’ve tried walking, but even with a podcast or music, I get bored easily. My hands swell up, my ears hurt if it’s cold, and I spend the entire walk just waiting to go home and lay down. I feel stuck in a cycle I have no energy because I don’t exercise, and I don’t exercise because I have no energy. My goal is to find an activity I don’t dread and can make a regular part of my routine. Is anyone else feeling the same way?
I used to hate going to the gym, but now I actually enjoy it and feel off if I don’t go regularly. What made the difference? I discovered that I really like working with a trainer or coach. I do semi-private or small group training, which is great because you have a financial incentive to show up, the workouts are efficient and tailored to your specific goals, and you have someone ensuring you’re doing everything correctly. Before this, I would just go to the gym, waste time, feel exhausted, and see no results. I prefer this setup over group classes because my program is personalized, so I don’t have to worry about keeping up with others or doing exercises that aren’t right for my body.
I started going to the gym with a trainer earlier this year, planning to stick with her for just a few months to learn the basics. However, she makes it so easy for me to show up and enjoy the workouts (even when they’re tough). I’ve seen way more progress than I ever did trying to work out on my own at home, and I’m much more motivated to push myself the right way.
This is such valuable insight! I have mostly been working out at home, but I recently got a gym membership and have been curious about how much of a difference having a trainer would make.
Thanks! If you are interested, I highly recommend giving it a try. For what it’s worth, I didn’t go to a big box gym for this. I searched for personal trainers or gyms that specialize in this format and had strong reviews. That’s not to say all trainers at places like LA Fitness are bad, but you might not know what you’re getting. Many new trainers start at those gyms to gain experience or build a client base. The top trainers typically don’t work at those types of facilities.
I understand this might be a bit pricey and not an option for everyone, but a VR headset and the game Beat Saber are amazing. It’s a game that keeps you entertained and never feels boring, but when I play at higher difficulty levels, it gets my heart rate up.
I agree with this and would also recommend trying Supernatural. Both of these fitness games are enjoyable and provide a great cardio workout!
I enjoy doing Zumba workouts with DVDs at home. It doesn’t require much space or any special equipment.
Thanks for the suggestion.
Swimming and walking are both great options. You can also combine them by walking in the pool, which provides a good workout.