Getting fit is often marketed as a process that requires endless motivation. We’re bombarded with images of fit people looking inspired and determined, and it’s easy to believe that’s the only way to make it happen. But here’s the truth: You don’t need motivation to get fit. In fact, motivation can be fleeting, and waiting for it to strike can hold you back from achieving your goals. So, what does it actually take to get fit and stay fit? Let’s break it down.
Why Motivation Isn’t Enough
Motivation is an emotion, and like any other emotion, it comes and goes. Some days, you might wake up ready to tackle the world and hit the gym with full energy. But on other days, life might feel overwhelming, or you may simply not feel like working out. When we rely solely on motivation, we’re at the mercy of our mood—and that can lead to inconsistency.
Imagine this: You’re motivated to start a fitness routine and go all-in for a few weeks. But then a stressful work week hits, you’re tired, and suddenly, your motivation takes a nosedive. If you’re waiting for motivation to kick in again, you could easily find yourself slipping out of your routine for weeks, even months. The answer? Build habits and routines that don’t depend on how motivated you feel.
Focus on Discipline Over Motivation
Discipline is all about consistency, and it’s what will ultimately carry you through on the days when motivation is low. When you rely on discipline, you’re creating habits that support your goals, regardless of how you feel in the moment. This approach helps fitness become a part of your lifestyle rather than a temporary push fueled by motivation alone.
So, how do you build discipline? Start with small, manageable changes rather than overhauling your entire lifestyle all at once. For example, commit to just 10-15 minutes of movement a day. Once you’re consistent with that, gradually increase your workouts and intensity. Over time, these small actions add up, and working out becomes second nature rather than something you have to psych yourself up for.
Make Your Fitness Goals Simple and Achievable
One common mistake is setting fitness goals that are too ambitious. While it’s great to have big dreams, focusing on small, attainable goals can keep you moving forward consistently. Instead of aiming to work out six days a week from the start, try setting a goal to work out two or three days a week. This feels manageable, and each success builds your confidence.
As you hit these smaller goals, you’ll feel a sense of achievement, which reinforces the habit. You don’t have to be perfect to make progress. And remember, progress is progress, no matter how small it may feel.
Create a Routine That Fits Your Life
Our routines are a major factor in how we spend our time. Rather than waiting to feel motivated to work out, make it part of your daily or weekly routine. Think of working out like brushing your teeth—it’s just something you do, not something you negotiate every day.
For example, if you have time in the mornings, try scheduling your workouts then, before other commitments start piling up. This is a great time for our members, who often find that working out in the morning provides a boost of energy and a sense of accomplishment before the day even begins. If mornings aren’t your thing, find another consistent time that works for you and stick to it.
Find a Workout Community
One of the best ways to stay on track without relying on motivation is to join a community. When you’re part of a group, the people around you provide support, encouragement, and accountability. At CrossFit Dwell, we see this every day—the community becomes a huge part of what keeps people coming back, even on days when motivation is nowhere to be found.
In a supportive community, you’re surrounded by others who are working toward similar goals. The camaraderie helps make the hard work feel enjoyable, and seeing other people’s progress can be incredibly motivating, even if you didn’t feel motivated when you walked in. Plus, when you know others are counting on you, it’s harder to skip workouts. You’re not just showing up for yourself; you’re showing up for the group.
Reframe Your Mindset Around Fitness
A big part of succeeding in fitness without motivation is how you think about it. Rather than focusing on fitness as something you “have to do,” start seeing it as something you “get to do.” Think of it as a way to feel stronger, gain energy, and improve your quality of life.
When you shift your mindset in this way, it becomes less about finding motivation and more about doing something positive for yourself. You’re investing in your health and future, which is something worth prioritizing, regardless of how you feel each day.
Focus on the Benefits You Can Feel and See
Nothing fuels a new routine like seeing results. But remember, results come in many forms, not just on the scale. Look for small wins—better sleep, improved mood, a bit more energy in the afternoons, or even feeling less out of breath during daily activities. These benefits are a direct result of your consistency, not your motivation.
If you keep showing up and putting in the work, these small victories will continue to pile up and make you want to keep going, even on the tough days. And remember, real change takes time, so be patient with yourself and trust the process.
Ready to Make Fitness Part of Your Life? Let’s Get Started!
You don’t have to wait for the right moment or the perfect amount of motivation to begin your fitness journey. All it takes is a commitment to show up and build habits that will support your goals. Whether you’re brand new to fitness or looking to get back into a routine, CrossFit Dwell is here to help you every step of the way.
Our community, supportive coaches, and personalized approach make it easy to stick with it—even when motivation isn’t there. Ready to get started? Book a free intro with us today, and let’s chat about your goals. Together, we’ll build the habits that will help you get fit for life.
Remember, you don’t need motivation to get fit—you just need to show up and commit to small, consistent actions. By focusing on discipline, community, and a mindset that prioritizes progress over perfection, you can make fitness a permanent part of your life. Motivation may come and go, but the results you achieve by building strong habits will stick around.